2024 was the year Muslim stories ruled the internet, and trust us, we couldn’t look away. From moments that made us laugh out loud to ones that broke our hearts, our Muslim communities had their presence felt in a major way online. Whether it was making history, a viral post, or a tragic loss that united us all, these stories didn’t just trend; they shaped the year.
Here’s a look at the viral Muslim moments that had everyone talking in 2024.
1. Utah legislator’s post on Shia Muslims
In August, Utah State Representative Trevor Lee shared a video on X (formerly Twitter) showing Utah Muslims participating in the Arba’in observance. His caption, noting the absence of American flags, sparked widespread debate and criticism online.
In the small town of Taylorsville Utah. pic.twitter.com/dIKA4sv2Uh
— Trevor Lee (@VoteTrevorLee) August 26, 2024
2. Sydney Kmart Islamophobia incident
Earlier in December, a viral video captured a woman confronting a Muslim shopper wearing a pro-Palestine shirt at a Kmart in Bankstown, Sydney. The situation escalated with offensive language and intimidation. The woman, identified as Kelly Rosaline Farrugia, was later arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including intimidation and offensive behavior.
🚨 UPDATE: This Sydney woman has been arrested and charged with publicly threatening violence on the grounds of religion pic.twitter.com/A3I1qF01BK
— Stop Arab Hate (@StopArabHate) December 23, 2024
3. Viral ‘cheaper mehr protests’ Instagram post
An Instagram post humorously claimed, “🚨BREAKING NEWS 🚨 Protests are happening around the country for cheaper mehr.” The joke struck a chord with audiences, quickly going viral across platforms. While satirical, the post sparked genuine conversations about the cultural and financial pressures surrounding mahr (a mandatory gift given by the groom to the bride in Islamic marriages). Social media users shared their own stories, memes, and commentary, blending humor with thoughtful reflections on societal expectations.
4. Khaled Nabhan’s death
Khaled Nabhan’s death was a moment none of us wanted to see, but one we’ll never forget. His story reached hearts across the world, becoming a symbol of strength, courage, and the fight for justice. Khaled wasn’t just one person—he became a voice for so many others. It’s no surprise he’s seen as “The Person of the Year” for Muslims everywhere. His name, his face, and his story will stay with us, reminding us of both the pain of loss and the power of resilience.
Khaled Nabhan was everything the media doesn’t want you to think Palestinian men are: gentle, loving, joyful, indispensable community builders. He spent the last year of his life finding ways to comfort displaced children in Gaza. These are the men they don’t want you to see. pic.twitter.com/vfbtv86PA4
— Chelsea Hart ۴۰۳۰ (@chelseahartisme) December 16, 2024
5. First Hijabi Miss Universe
In a groundbreaking moment for representation, Khadija Omar made history as the first hijabi to compete in Miss Universe. Her presence on such a global stage wasn’t just about beauty; it was about breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and showing the world that faith and fashion can coexist boldly. Her journey reminded us all that representation isn’t just about being seen; it’s about being unapologetically yourself.
