Interview with Fatima Iqbal Zubair

Interview Conudcted and Summarized by Zayed Kadir, HSDA Muslim Caucus Chairman. This article was published as a collaboration with the Muslim Caucus and the TPT and is also associated with their caucus publication “The Crescent” (logo given at the bottom).

Image of Fatima Iqbal-Zubair. Image Credit: People’s Action

On October 14th the High School Democrats of America Muslim Caucus Spoke with Fatima Iqbal Zubair. She is the current Progressive Caucus Chair of the California Democratic Party and ran for the California State Assembly to represent District 65. In her first run in 2020 she was notably endorsed by Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont. She ran again in 2022, and although she wasn’t successful in either run she has remained a dedicated public servant.

Here, Fatima speaks about her experiences running for office and public advocacy. As well as how being a Muslim Woman and a first generation immigrant have affected her work and decision-making.

This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.

Question: What does civic representation look like to you?

Fatima: The first thing that comes to mind when you ask what civic representation looks like is just of the people, for the people, and by the people. It’s not about what’s politically popular or advantageous to one person. It’s really about what’s advantageous to society and communities all over. Our democracy has really strayed away from that because of the military, industrial conflict, corporate money, big oil money, police money, and lobbyists. It’s really important that we maintain civic engagement that is not connected to those forces and is not for self-political gain, but for our collective humanity. That’s why I do the work I do during the day, up in the Capitol. It’s why I fight and sometimes get a lot of pushbacks for the things that I say. Because I don’t think one should really be in a position of power or influence if you can’t really be courageous.

Question: What progressive policies are you currently advocating for?

Fatima: There are so many. Right now, a lot of my work is around environmental justice and environmental policy. We are stewards of this earth, and we protect this earth and everything in it, even plants, animals, insects. We can’t live in a society where we’re extracting and profiting; it should really be about protecting God’s creation. That’s a lot of my work right now. But I also uplift any good progressive policy across the state (California), from housing, civil rights to any progressive issue.

Question: How has your experience as a mother and as a teacher affected both your run for the California state assembly and your current work?

Fatima: As a mother and a Muslim woman, my faith directly influences my work and encourages me to be a leader. This often requires sacrifices, such as arranging childcare for my son during late-night work hours. Despite missing him during these times, I'm aware that I'm fighting for his future. My son takes pride in my work and often discusses it in his school projects. Balancing motherhood and work is challenging, but it enhances my empathy in my profession. Even though I no longer teach full-time, I run a youth nonprofit for first-generation and black students in South L.A., which keeps me grounded and connected to the young people I serve. It's crucial to be discerning about who we support as leaders in our community, ensuring they're running for office for the right reasons and truly understand the issues at hand. As a Muslim, I don't just represent the Muslim community; our faith teaches us to lead by example for everyone, demonstrating our integrity and moral character. We should strive to do things not just for the Muslim community but for all of humanity and for the sake of Allah. This principle guides me when making tough decisions such as who to endorse. When faced with such decisions, I turn to prayer. If I feel that I'm making a decision for my own benefit, I refrain from it. However, if I believe that I'm acting for justice or a greater purpose and feel at peace during my prayers, then I proceed with the decision. This approach is deeply rooted in our faith, which teaches us to be an example for humanity in how we conduct ourselves—a responsibility that I take to heart.

Question: Where do you see the future of Muslim advocacy and involvement in government go?

Fatima: In the coming years, it would be beneficial to see more representation from the right individuals within the Muslim community in office. The current Middle East crisis highlights the need for this representation. Our strength lies in our community coming together, voting, and registering voters. It's crucial to involve everyone, including those who may feel their votes or efforts don't bring about change. Solidarity with other marginalized communities is also important as we're all fighting against common issues like white supremacy. This solidarity makes us stronger. That's why I chose to run for chair of the progressive caucus, focusing on intersectional advocacy and standing up for marginalized communities. Our programming includes partnerships with various councils and caucuses, focusing on issues like housing and reparations. This intersectional advocacy uplifts all of us together.

Question: How can we, as Muslims, align ourselves with a political party like the Democratic Party, whose values may not always fit 100% with our faith? 

Fatima: No political party can fully encompass the views of every individual, including Muslims. The Muslim community is diverse, with its members having affiliations and positions on various issues. If your viewpoints do not align completely with any party, it is perfectly acceptable to express them. You are not obligated to associate yourself with a party that does not fully represent you. Personally, I identify as a Democrat because I believe in bringing about change from within the party and holding people accountable. My involvement stems from my dedication to representing the working class and my experiences, in community organizing. Choose a party that closely resonates with your beliefs, or consider having no party preference if that better suits your convictions.

Question: What advice do you have for anyone wanting to pursue a political career or in public advocacy?

Fatima: My advice is to always follow your authentic self and pursue public service for the sake of justice, not for personal gain. Always check your intentions. Are you doing something for your own self-gain, for a title, or popularity? Or are you doing it because you genuinely want to effect positive change in your community? Building relationships with elected officials in your community is also important. They have access to budgets, resources, and can influence legislation. However, ensure these relationships are authentic and don't change yourself to please them. Be honest and have productive discussions. Politicians can see through someone who's just trying to get an endorsement. The ones who are truly for the people value authenticity and honesty.