Muslim voters in Columbus weigh Gaza, immigration and affordability ahead of midterms

Muslim voters in Columbus described concerns ranging from Gaza and immigration to affordability and political representation at the first Columbus Muslim Voter Day, WOSU Public Media reported on Oct. 12.

More than a dozen local Muslim organizations, including the Muslim American Society and Noor Islamic Cultural Center, took part in the gathering at International Mall beside the Franklin County Board of Elections. Hickcox said the event will repeat on Oct. 24.

Victoria Hickcox, a lead organizer with Young United Souls for Revolutionary Action (YUSRA), said the aim was to make election information more accessible. She pointed to candidates opposing genocide and candidates engaging with Muslim communities as reasons for voters to participate.

Jawhara Qutiefan, co-president of the Columbus chapter of American Muslims for Palestine, said her main concern was the killing of Muslims around the world, particularly in Gaza. She also said Muslims are concerned about immigration, free speech and weapons manufacturing.

Other participants raised living costs and representation. Attendee Cam Habayeb said he wanted a candidate who would not simply endorse the president’s decisions. Abdu Said opposed candidates supporting taxes on low-income people, while Hyatt Mohamud stressed the importance of Muslim representation.

Hickcox and Qutiefan described barriers including law enforcement at polling places, transportation, identification requirements and registration deadlines. Hickcox said President Donald Trump’s statements about Muslims and Somalis had made some people afraid to vote.

Qutiefan said many Muslims felt their concerns were ignored amid an Islamophobia campaign. She urged them to vote to demonstrate that their voices matter and replace politicians promoting hateful rhetoric.