n>From the virtuous days of Dhul Hijjah to momentous Eid mornings, we treasure these precious days and the acts of worship, celebratory preparations, and communal moments that are all part of the tapestry of Muslim culture across societies. Western Muslims—mostly immigrants or family of immigrants—reminisce upon the Islamic holidays spent in their homeland, yearning to make equally satisfying observances in their new home. At the same time, placing emphasis on their own arrangements may come at the expense of catering to the converts of their community at a time when new Muslims are in need of communal support. An issue that Muslim communities in the West turn a blind eye to is “convert care,” that is, showing compassion to and acknowledgment of the often forgotten in society. Converts are of a wide variety of backgrounds, education levels, and Islamic knowledge, but universally experience neglect during the most virtuous days for Muslims and the joyous occasions of Eid. Read Full Article »