NPR

A Muslim In Rural, White Minnesota On How To 'Love Thy Neighbor'

After Donald Trump's election,
Ayaz Virji moved with his family to a small city in Minnesota. They were the only Muslims in town. Virji gave a series of talks about Islam.

Dr. Ayaz Virji was a Muslim living in small-town, white America.

He had left a good job in a leadership position at a successful hospital in Harrisburg, Penn., in order to practice medicine in a rural, underserved area.

Virji says he "had the BMWs, the nice house, but it wasn't enough for me, I wanted to do more." Rural America faces a shortage of doctors, with many residents forgoing care and saying locations are too far away. "So I felt like I should do something about that. And it was back to the idea: If not me, then who?" he says.

He moved with his family to Dawson,

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR2 min readInternational Relations
Turkey Halts All Trade With Israel Over Military Actions In Gaza
The government described the step as the "second phase" of measures against Israel, adding the steps would remain in force until Israel allows a "sufficient flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza."
NPR5 min readAmerican Government
Six Months Out From The Election, Wisconsin Students Weigh Voting For Biden
Wisconsin's young voters — who have turned out in big numbers in recent elections — are key for either candidate to win the state. But Biden is facing some skepticism on the state's college campuses.
NPR3 min read
Have You Seen This Emotional Support Gator? Wally's Owner Says He's Lost In Georgia
Wally has many fans in Pennsylvania and across social media. His owner is enlisting their help, saying Wally was kidnapped, located by a trapper and released into a swamp while vacationing in Georgia.

Related