MICHIGAN — Many American Muslims in metro Detroit are preparing to take part in the annual Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca. 

The Hajj will take place in mid-October. Because of past profiling incidents, involving American Muslims at airports, those taking part in this year’s pilgrimage to Mecca are encouraged to remain aware of their legal rights and responsibilities as citizens and travelers when leaving from, or returning to, the United States.   

Hajj, a pilgrimage that is mandated at least once in the life of every Muslim, is one of the “five pillars” of the Islamic faith. The other pillars include: A declaration of faith, daily prayers, offering regular charity, and fasting during the month of Ramadan.   

All individuals who plan on going to Hajj should first check Department of Homeland Security Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations and rules at the TSA website.   As an airline passenger, you are entitled to courteous, respectful and non-stigmatizing treatment by airline and security personnel. It is illegal for law enforcement officials to perform any stops, searches, detentions, or removals, based solely on your race, religion, national origin, sex, or ethnicity.   

Other Hajj-specific travel recommendations for Muslim travelers include the following: 

•  Check in any Zamzam water bottles that you bring back to the U.S.  Airline companies will not allow you to carry liquids in large quantities on the plane, so be sure to check in Zamzam water and other liquids. Zamzam water is drawn from a well within the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and has religious significance for Muslims.

•  When packing, ensure that your shoes are cleansed of any soil. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has strict rules, regarding entry of soil and chemicals into the country. 

•  If you are bringing back items (gold, carrying cash, etc.) worth more than $800 per person, declare them using the CBP Declaration Form that is made available by airline staff when landing. If you do not declare items that are more than $800, CBP may confiscate them.