Let’s Talk About… Islam and Black Lives Matter

After George Floyd, an unarmed black man, was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis, Minnesota, protests erupted across the U.S. and the rest of the world calling for justice – not only for George Floyd but for all those who have died as a result of police and state brutality.

At MEND we thought it was necessary to discuss Black Lives Matter and how Muslims can be allies to anti-racist movements, as well as how we can address racism within our own communities. Our Leeds volunteer, Haris, was able to organise a webinar with Shaykh Mikaeel Ahmed Smith from the Qalam Institute based in Texas.

Shaykh Mikaeel was discussed racism and anti-racism within the context of Islam and appeal to our audience to discuss very important topics, including the experience of Black Muslims within Muslim communities as well as the experience of Black communities in general in the US. Shaykh Mikaeel was able to identify causes of racism within Muslim communities and advise on how we can have a hands-on approach to dealing with racism and address our duty to stand up for justice as Muslims.

If you missed our webinar you can catch up on our Facebook page, please click here.