The Power of Showing Up: Why Hilliard Muslims Are Mobilizing Like Never Before

In the heart of Hilliard, Ohio, a pivotal moment is unfolding for the Muslim community. The upcoming Democratic primary election on May 6, 2025, for the Hilliard City Council is more than a routine political event; it's a defining juncture that could shape the future of the Noor Islamic Cultural Center (NICC) and the broader Muslim presence in the area.​

A Community at a Crossroads

The NICC, a cornerstone for Muslims in Hilliard and the greater Columbus area, has been at the center of a significant zoning dispute. In February 2024, the center purchased the former BMW Financial Services building on Britton Parkway with plans to transform it into a vibrant neighborhood hub. The proposed development included commercial spaces, educational facilities, and areas for worship. However, the Hilliard City Council denied the necessary zoning changes, prompting the NICC to file a federal lawsuit alleging discrimination and violation of constitutional rights ​WOSU Public Media. This legal battle underscores the critical importance of local governance decisions and their direct impact on community development and religious freedom.​

The Stakes of the May 6 Primary

Hillard City Council Democratic Elections-Muslim Ohio Flyer

The upcoming primary is especially consequential, with four city council seats up for election. Notably, three Muslim candidates—Samer Bazerbashi, Dorothy Hassan, and Nadia Rasul—are vying for positions, reflecting the community's growing engagement in local politics .​Ballotpedia. Their candidacies represent a broader movement towards inclusivity and representation, aiming to ensure that the voices of all Hilliard residents are heard and considered in city decisions.​

Mobilizing for Change

Recognizing the high stakes, the NICC and local organizers have launched an extensive campaign to encourage voter participation. Through text messages, emails, flyers, and Friday khutbah announcements, they are urging community members to register and vote. The message is clear: active participation in the electoral process is essential to advocate for the community's interests and to influence decisions that affect daily life.​

Key Voting Information

• Primary Election Day: Tuesday, May 6, 2025

• Poll Hours: 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM

• Early Voting: Available at the Franklin County Board of Elections, 1700 Morse Rd, Columbus

• Voter Registration: Deadline was April 7, 2025

• Voting Eligibility: All registered voters in Hilliard can participate in the Democratic primary by requesting a Democratic ballot, regardless of prior party affiliation ​Welcome to Norwich Township, OH

  
  

For more information on registration and voting, visit www.voteohio.gov.​noorohio.org+1noorohio.org+1

A Call to Action

The outcome of this election will have lasting implications for the NICC and the broader Muslim community in Hilliard. By voting, community members can help shape a future that embraces diversity, promotes inclusivity, and ensures that all voices are represented in local governance.​

Your participation is not just a civic duty; it's a powerful statement of commitment to the values of equity and justice. Let's make our voices heard and our presence felt at the polls.​

May Allah (SWT) guide us towards unity and strength through active civic engagement. Ameen.

SOURCES

• “Noor Islamic Cultural Center Sues City of Hilliard After Zoning Denial” – WOSU Public Media ​WOSU Public Media+1Log in or sign up to view+1

• “Development, Taxes, Connecting Neighborhoods Top List for Dems in Hilliard City Council Primary” – WOSU Public Media​X (formerly Twitter)+1WOSU Public Media+1

• “Noor Islamic Center Sues Hilliard for Discrimination, Violation of Constitutional Rights” – The Columbus Dispatch​Vorys+1The Columbus Dispatch+1

• “Hilliard Faces Federal Lawsuit Over Rejected Islamic Center Plans” – ABC 6 News​WSYX

• “Noor Islamic Cultural Center Sues City of Hilliard After Zoning Denial” – WOSU Public Media​WOSU Public Media+1Log in or sign up to view+1

• “Noor-Affiliated Group Sues Hilliard Over Rezoning Denial of Former BMW Building” – The Hilliard Beacon​10TV+10hilliardbeacon.substack.com+10hilliardbeacon.substack.com+10

• “Miller Quoted in Columbus Dispatch Story Titled ‘Noor Islamic Center Sues Hilliard for Discrimination, Violation of Constitutional Rights’” – Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP​Vorys+1The Columbus Dispatch+1

• “Hilliard Democrats Endorsement in the May 6, 2025 City Council Primary” – Hilliard Democrats (Facebook)