The Qur’an and Worker Justice
The Muslim community and the labor movement share the common goals of social justice, economic fairness, and fair treatment in the workplace. In fact, the history of Islam is rooted in a firm stand against economic exploitation. When Prophet Muhammad ibn (son of) Abdullah, may Allah be pleased with Him, began teaching Islam in Mecca, it shook up an unjust economic structure that allowed the rich to take advantage of the poor. Before Prophet Muhammad departed, he left behind The Holy Qur'an, a book filled with guidance on how men and women should treat each other in various situations, including the workplace. The Holy Qur’an urges the proper treatment and respect of workers. Several Muslim leaders discussed the relevance of the Holy Qur’an to the struggle for dignity in the workplace with union leaders and other religious leaders during the “Islam and Labor: Forging Partnerships Conference,” held Nov. 10, 2001 in Washington, D.C. Co-convened by the National Interfaith Committee for Worker Justice and the Muslim Public Affairs Council, the conference sought to build relationships between the Muslims, interfaith committees and labor communities. Referencing heavily from the Holy Qur’an and the life of Prophet Muhammad, several Muslim Imams (leaders) discussed worker justice, the connection between faith and works, class and gender equality, and the responsibility of employers. The essence of their remarks can be summed up in one sentence uttered by Prophet Muhammad to his companions about 1400 years ago:

“None of you has faith unless you love for your brother what you love for yourself.”
The Imams pledged to work with organized labor to secure economic justice for low-wage workers in America. This booklet is a result of the dialogue and highlights key themes discussed during the conference.

Standing Together for Worker Justice
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