Dr. Jamal highlights the betrayal of trust, deception, and breach of confidentiality in his interactions with Yaser Birjas of the Valley Ranch Islamic Center (VRIC). He speaks about his experiences of dealing with Yaser Birjas and the gross negligence he exhibited from the start … continuing with his deception, along with baseless assessments provided to the Islamic Tribunal during mediation and arbitration. In addition to Dr. Abu Ayah’s and Dr. Abdullah’s disastrous dealings with Yaser Birjas, Dr. Jamal continues to highlight the grave dangers of allowing unqualified and reckless imāms to provide marriage counseling and mediation services.

Dr. Jamal has come forward to share his deeply troubling experiences with Yaser Birjas of Valley Ranch Islamic Center (VRIC). His testimony highlights repeated instances of unethical behavior, violations of trust, and negligence. These allegations raise significant questions about the accountability and role of leadership in Islamic institutions.

• Initial Trust: Dr. Jamal, a lifelong admirer of Islamic leaders, trusted Yaser Birjas as a guide and counselor during critical moments in his life.

• Marriage Counseling and Nikkah: Dr. Jamal and his fiancée engaged in a single premarital session with Yaser Birjas, after which the Imam conducted their Nikkah. This decision, despite evident conflicts during the counseling session, forms the foundation of Dr. Jamal’s grievances.

• Yaser Birjas noted conflicts during the premarital session but still proceeded with the Nikah.

• Dr. Jamal questions the purpose of such sessions if clear issues are ignored, potentially leading to significant life changes and marital failures.

• Despite stating he would remain neutral, Yaser Birjas shared details and made judgments about Dr. Jamal’s marriage during interactions with the Islamic Tribunal.

• Confidentiality from counseling sessions was violated, a breach of both ethical and Islamic standards.

• Yaser Birjas made disparaging comments about Dr. Jamal, relaying unverified claims from Dr. Jamal’s spouse.

• The Qur’an explicitly emphasizes verification of information to prevent harm, a principle disregarded in this instance.

• Yaser Birjas allegedly misrepresented the concept of Qawwāmah (men as caretakers and protectors), portraying Dr. Jamal’s adherence to traditional Islamic practices as distorted.

• This misrepresentation fueled further conflict and mischaracterization of Dr. Jamal’s intentions.

[updates in progress]

Dr. Jamal’s story is part of a larger pattern of behavior involving Yaser Birjas, as highlighted by other individuals. The recurring nature of these incidents demands:

• Oversight mechanisms for counseling practices within Islamic institutions.
• Transparent accountability structures to protect individuals seeking guidance.

• For Community Members: Demand reforms in Islamic counseling services and support individuals who come forward with their grievances.

• For Leaders and Institutions: Uphold the trust placed in your positions by ensuring ethical and professional conduct.

• For Islamic Organizations: Establish oversight boards and clear protocols for addressing misconduct.