Black Lives Matter: Racism, Social Activism, Justice | A Reader
SeekersGuidance is always committed to provide clarity, answers, and guidance, especially when new issues emerge.
We feel that in these times it is important for us to listen to our black leaders. In this reader we are featuring the voices of some of our most impactful black Muslim leaders, including Imam Zaid Shakir, Dr. Sherman Jackson, Imam Siraj Wahhaj, Imam Dawud Walid, Shaykha Zaynab Ansari, and others.
May Allah make us of those who stand up for justice, truth and equity with principles. In the spirit of the Quran:
People, We created you all from a single man and a single woman, and made you into races and tribes so that you should recognize one another. In God’s eyes, the most honoured of you are the ones most mindful of Him: God is all knowing, all aware. (49:13)
You who believe, uphold justice and bear witness to God, even if it is against yourselves, your parents, or your close relatives. Whether the person is rich or poor, God can best take care of both. Refrain from following your own desire, so that you can act justly- if you distort or neglect justice, God is fully aware of what you do. (4:135)
Articles
Blackness, Racism And How The Arabic Language Rises Above It All
- When “Black” is good. An insight to what “blackness” truly means in the Arabic language
Black Lives Matter: If You’re Right With God, You’re Right – Imam Zaid Shakir
- Imam Zaid Shakir has led funeral prayers (janazas) due to blue-on-black crime and black-on-black crime. In this video he touches on the history of the black struggle and sheds some spiritual light on the issue. Allah tells us our lives matter, we don’t need a movement.
Race To The Top – Imam Zaid Shakir – New Islamic Direction
- It’s okay to get involved. Racism existed, and still does. Let us talk about it.
Spiritual Activism and the Tradition of Salawat in West Africa
- Imam Dawud Walid discusses the inspiring story of a west African scholar, Shaykh Ahmadu Bamba
On Demand Courses
- Islam is a truly complete religion; a way of life. Does it lay down foundations for social justice? Of course!
Islam in Blackamerica
- BayanOnline, an online Islamic seminary, is offering this insightful course for only three easy payments of free, yes, FREE. Check out this beneficial course with Dr. Sherman Jackson.
Answers
How Do I Deal With My Racist Spouse?
- It’s easier to avoid problems outside your home, but what do you do when the problems lie within?
Hadiths on the “Bad Traits” of Black People
- How do we understand hadiths which seemingly describe black people negatively?
Would it Be Wrong To Avoid Interracial Marriages For Cultural Considerations?
- Are you racist if you don’t want to marry someone from outside your race? The following answer discusses some prophetic direction in marriage.
How Do I Deal With Racist Attitudes at Gatherings?
- Self-hate will lead to a dull fate.
Are the Islamic Rulings Regarding Marriage Racist?
- Islam doesn’t teach us to be racist. Many people, including Muslims, are simply misinformed.
