Young Muslims Raise Thousands for Poppy Appeal

LONDON, October 31, 2014 /PRNewswire/ --

Royal British Legion has marked the 1st of November 2014 as "The Ahmadiyya Muslim Poppy Appeal Day"

Over the next few weeks, hundreds of young Muslims belonging to the largest and oldest standing Islamic Caliphate will be taking to the high streets, rail and tube stations, stadiums and airports around the UK, raising thousands of pounds for the Poppy Appeal.

For the 5th year running, members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA) will be in partnership with the Royal British Legion. They see it as a mark of good citizenship and a testament to the Islamic edict of demonstrating loyalty to one's country. To acknowledge this incredible partnership, the Royal British Legion has marked the 1st of November 2014 as "The Ahmadiyya Muslim Poppy Appeal Day"

Earlier this month over 300 volunteers belonging to the AMYA raised funds for the Poppy Appeal at Wembley Stadium and will continue to do so into November. Their active participation in the Tower of London Poppy installation was also commended by the organisers.

This is part of long running nationwide initiatives by the AMYA to contribute to the country in different ways. Other initiatives have included blood drives, elderly home visits, feeding the homeless, charity events, green initiatives, peace conferences and interfaith meetings.

Commenting on the Poppy Appeal, the Caliph, His Holiness, Mirza Masroor Ahmad, a man of peace with the largest Muslim following said:

"Muslims are obliged to be loyal to the country in which they live. Honouring those who fought to defend and safeguard one's countryis an important principle of Islam and in fact is an important principle of peace - especially when it is carried out with a sincere heart and for the sake of winning God's pleasure."

150 million Ahmadi Muslims in 206 countries follow a single leader, the Caliph, His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, who has been living in London ever since his election to the post. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Caliphate was established in 1908, following the demise of the founder of the community, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad.

Prime Minister, David Cameron said:

"The Poppy Appeal is a poignant way for us to remember the courage and sacrifice of our Armed Forces and support those still serving today. It's great to see Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA) joining thousands of people across the country to help our brave servicemen and women, veterans and their loved ones. I hope this year's appeal will continue the proud tradition of our whole nation coming together to support our troops."

Deborah Armantrading at The Royal British Legion, said: "AMYA have been crucial in raising funds for the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal for several years participating in mass collections all over the UK, providing us with a significant number of volunteer collectors and raising an amazing total of £8,500 so far this year. The Legion are extremely pleased with the enthusiasm and commitment from all of the volunteers. We enjoy working with AMYA as they are dedicated and passionate about their charity work, and the Poppy Appeal would not be the same without their help."

Mirza Waqas Ahmad, National President of AMYA said: "One of the fundamental teachings of the Holy Quran is that the reward forgoodness is goodness alone. The United Kingdom has provided us with so many opportunities for which we are truly grateful. As Muslims it is our responsibility to show loyalty to our country of residence and to stand together for a worthy cause. We therefore hope that our participation is a clear indication of our desire for peace and unity between all peoples, nations and religions."

Contact and Interview Information

For media enquiries please contact the AMYA press office:

Farooq Aftab: +44(0)7584-100659
Jamal Akbar:  +44(0)7961-444-005
Email: press@khuddam.org.uk
Twitter: @amya_press

Website: http://www.muslimsforhumanity.org.uk/

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