Al-Quds Day Rally 2009 (DC)

(Click on flier for enlarged view)

What is Al-Quds Day?

Al-Quds Day is held each year on the last Friday of Ramadan. It is a day when Muslims around the world, as well as non-Muslims, come together to demonstrate their support for the oppressed in the world, in particular our oppressed brothers and sisters in Palestine who have been living under Zionist occupation for over 60 years (...and don't forget the massacre in Ghazzah which occurred just a few months ago). The details of this year's local Al-Quds Day rally (in DC) can be found on the flier above. Please show your support by attending!

On the DC Shahadah Wave

Below is an article written by one of our local members regarding a very interesting phenomenon that has taken root in Washington, DC.



ON THE DC SHAHADAH WAVE
By Muhaafiz Khan

It is about time that the news is passed on: There is a growing trend in inner-city neighborhoods across DC. Its momentum has not subsided; rather, it has only increased. What is the trend? Islam.

In inner-cities across America, and in the African-American community in particular, Islam has long been known as an uplifting force. In previous decades and generations, Islam was embraced as part of an evolutionary growth process. Seekers of social justice would embrace Islam after finding the gaps or shortcomings in various ideologies such as Black nationalism, socialism, and communism. Embracing Islam was attaching oneself to a universal and all-encompassing way of life; it was viewed by pioneer homegrown Islamic movements (the Islamic Party, Dar al-Islam, etc.) as a vehicle for spiritual, social, economic, and political progress; it was also akin to returning to one's roots, as many of the enslaved Africans who arrived on American and Caribbean shores from the 1500s to the 1800s arrived as practicing Muslims.

It seems that none of these earlier motivations, however, can be accurately ascribed 100% to the current shahadah wave in DC.

At Masjid Al-Islam in Southeast DC, we saw the first sign of this trend in the fall of 2007. At that time, it was only a trickle. One brother, or two, or three--all under the age of 20--would take their shahadahs each or every other week. It was a curious sight. Many of us were not quite sure what to make of it. Of course, we welcomed these fresh new faces, but we were also puzzled. For years, our community members had lived in the neighborhoods of Southeast. For years, we had given various forms of da'wah; every few weeks, or months, there would be a new shahadah. But now, it had become a weekly phenomenon. Upon being asked what had motivated them to take their shahadahs, various responses were given. The most common one: "I want to change my life."

In that first year, many of the new shahadahs were coming from a nearby Southeast neighborhood known as Simple City. Simple City has been an area notoriously known for its concentration of drugs, crimes, and violence. Nevertheless, out of this chaotic environment emerged an unabated flow of young people interested in Islam. At the Masjid, requests were being made regularly for literature, books, prayer calendars, CDs, etc. The Intro to Islam class (Wednesday evenings @ 7pm) that seemed to exist since time immemorial came to life with a sudden influx of fresh young students, from middle school ages on up to just past high school.

"We're happy to be in a position to welcome these new shahadahs and give them support," says Imam Musa, the imam of Masjid Al-Islam. "We hope to live up to the expectations of Islam and pass it on in a way that is functional and helpful, as a mercy from Allah (swt)." Imam Tufayl Abdillah, who was born in DC and lived here nearly all of his life, further elaborates: "Several years ago, Imam Musa made a decision to establish a masjid in an area that most people would avoid—even Muslims. Now, almost twenty years later, Masjid Al-Islam is reaping the benefits of that action. In just this last year, well over 100 young people have taken their shahadahs. Allah (swt) has blessed this Masjid to be a tool for Islam in an area where most people, Muslim and non-Muslim, had given up all hope in its young people."

The trend is still very much alive today, and it seems to have spread all across DC. As strange as it may sound to the suburbanite believer, it has now become en vogue in inner-city DC to be a Muslim; it is "cool" to sport a colorful kufi or Palestinian-style keffiyeh. Young brothers in thobes are becoming an increasingly common sight. Scented oils are in high demand. It is not uncommon to hear the greeting of "As-salamu 'alaikum" while walking down the street (that is, if you are obviously a Muslim). I recently witnessed an argument between 9- and 10-year old neighborhood kids centered around who really did or did not take their shahadahs between them. There is a string of popular debates and questions being raised: Does Yellow #5 have pork in it? Must dreadlocks be shaved off? How can Muslim brothers and sisters marry each other if they don't date? In Islam, when are fights allowed? There are other questions a bit more solemn and unique to the inner-city scene, such as this one: What becomes of a young Muslim brother who receives a non-Islamic burial?

With a steady stream of only young brothers taking their shahadahs locally for the past two years, it is natural for one to become concerned about their future marriage prospects. Not to worry: the sisters' wave has started to kick in about a month or two ago. Masha'Allah, on a weekly basis now, 3-5 young sisters, or more--also all under the age of 20--are taking their shahadahs.

To address this incredible (and curious) phenomenon, as a community, we have steadily served up a wholesome and balanced picture of Islam: one that does not dwell solely on the "look" and external practice of a Muslim, but also deals with the improvement of self and the building of character, morals, and values; one that addresses not only personal issues, but pertinent and relevant societal issues as well. We are emphasizing the building-block process of Islam: to learn the fundamentals, practice them, become consistent, and then keep building a step at a time; to prioritize first what is important so as to not be overwhelmed by the details that new Muslims are often bombarded with.

We are also making sure to connect this young generation of new Muslims with today's global Islamic scene. As part of a universal Ummah that is constantly facing challenges, it is of the utmost importance that young Muslims understand the world they live in. "Islam is in a global process of revival, and our enemies understand that," Imam Musa explains. "Many of these new shahadahs already have two strikes against them: they're black and they’re youth. Black people in this country have a unique history. Now, they're Muslim too? This has some serious implications, and so we have to understand the history, the current events, and how things are set up. We have a big mission ahead of us."

Unfortunately, as with any trend, there are some who seem to be entering the fold of Islam "just because". But even for those whose sincerity is seemingly questionable, we are confident that with their constant exposure to the message (Jumu'ah khutbahs are hardly missed), some of it is bound to sink in and take root, whether sooner or later. It is important to understand that many of these young people have had no regular exposure to religious beliefs and values; they come from neighborhoods in which all kinds of social ills run rampant. Now, with their connection to this Deen, if and when life throws them big challenges, they will have an Islamic framework and foundation to turn back to. This is invaluable. Insha'Allah, many will mature into their practice.

Eclipsing the skepticism that surrounds the current DC shahadah wave, and overshadowing the questionable sincerity demonstrated by some, there is a weighty fact: this "trend" has led an oft-ignored portion of humanity--even if it is a few out of the many--to the immeasurable satisfaction and reward of learning the Truth, knowing Allah (swt), and being aligned with the true purpose of life.

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We are expecting a very festive Ramadan this year with all of our new shahadahs. Many of our new sisters are in need of modest clothing. Donations of gently-used hijabs, khimars, and outfits (that can fit teenagers) will be greatly appreciated. To schedule a drop-off, call 202.903.8977 or e-mail sisterbahiyah@hotmail.com. To schedule a pick-up, e-mail ubzerva82@msn.com. We would also appreciate book donations, but we have certain titles in mind (which fit into our class structure). For details, contact info@sabiqun.org.

Ramadan Mubarak!

As-Sabiqun would like to wish all of our members, workers, friends, supporters, and well-wishers a RAMADAN MUBARAK! May Allah's (swt) mercy, forgiveness, and grace be showered upon you during this blessed month.

Please keep us in your du'as.

"Support Our School" Fundraiser feat. Br. Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf

"For those who give in Charity, men and women,
and loan to Allah a Beautiful Loan, it shall be increased manifold (to their credit), and they shall have (besides) a liberal reward."
(57:18)

SUPPORT OUR SCHOOL!
A Fundraiser for Masjid Al-Islam’s
Group Home-Schooling Cooperative

Saturday, August 15, 2009
5:00 – 7:00 pm

Featuring:

Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf
(World-Renown Basketball Player)

Imam Abdul Alim Musa
(Amir, As-Sabiqun)

MASJID AL-ISLAM
4603 Benning Road SE
Washington, DC 20019

About br. Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf:

After a record-setting college career at Louisiana State University, Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf was selected with the third pick in the 1990 NBA Draft by the Denver Nuggets. He played with Denver until 1995, and was a key player on that team, winning the Most Improved Player award in 1993. He later went on to play for the Sacramento Kings and the Vancouver Grizzlies. Overcoming the challenge of Tourette syndrome to have an athletic career, he led the league in free throw percentage in 1994 and 1996, narrowly missing (by one missed free throw) the NBA all-time record for free-throw percentage in a single season in 1993-94. After leaving the NBA, he has continued to play professional basketball around the world.

Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf is perhaps best known for the controversy created when he refused to stand for "The Star-Spangled Banner" before games, stating that the flag was a "symbol of oppression" and that the United States had a long "history of tyranny". He said that standing to the national anthem would therefore conflict with his Islamic beliefs. On March 12, 1996, the NBA suspended Abdul-Rauf for his refusal to stand, but the suspension lasted only one game. Two days later, the league was able to work out a compromise with him, whereby he would stand during the playing of the national anthem but could close his eyes, look downward, and silently recite an Islamic prayer instead.

*For those of you who would like to know more about Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf--beyond these two brief paragraphs--I highly encourage you to check out this article and please read it to its end. He is not just a "Muslim basketball player"--his story is one of sacrifice and commitment to deeply-rooted principles.

If you'd like to see some of his moves on the court:

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3

Another brief video:

By the Dawn's Early Light

***

Oh, and here's a brief clip of Imam Musa speaking at the Malcolm X event in Dallas, TX from a little more than a week ago. Thanks for the tip, br. Yusuf!

Br. Ibrahim Competes @ the Riyaadah

As-salaamu 'alaikum, dear believers!

This video put a big smile on our faces. The footage--captured by a cell phone camera--shows none other than br. Ibrahim (from Masjid Al-Islam in DC) keeping As-Sabiqun well-represented at the Iron Man Competition of this year's Riyaadah. Masha'Allah, the brother has skills!! If you know him and/or see him, give him congrats--he's brought a trophy home for us!

This Friday: Remembering the Legacy of Malcolm X (Dallas, TX)

Muslim Students for Justice presents...

"LEGACY of MALCOLM X"

Friday, July 17, 2009 @ 7:30 pm

Guest Speakers:
Mahmoud Abdul Rauf (Former NBA Star)
Imam Abdul Alim Musa (As-Sabiqun Movement)

Hyatt Place
5229 Spring Valley Road
Dallas, TX

Join us in this annual event to commemorate the life and legacy of El Hajj Malik El Shabazz!

*Program will start with a free dinner at 7:30 pm.*

For driving directions and more information visit: www.MuslimStudentsForJustice.org

Re-Punking the FBI on ISNA Weekend!

(Click on flier for enlarged view)

RE-PUNK THE F.B.I. (Practitioners of Tyranny & Oppression)

Sunday, July 5, 2009
5:00 – 7:30 pm

Masjid Al-Islam
4603 Benning Road SE
Washington, DC 20019
(3 blocks from Benning Road Metro Station)

Speaker:
Imam Abdul Alim Musa

* * *

OUR DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

“Allah has promised, to those among you who believe and work righteous deeds, that He will, of a surety, grant them in the land, inheritance (of power), as He granted it to those before them; that He will establish in authority their religion (Deen)—the one which He has chosen for them; and that He will change (their state), after the fear in which they (lived), to one of security and peace: ‘They will worship Me (alone) and not associate aught with Me.’ If any do reject Faith after this, they are rebellious and wicked. So establish regular Prayer and give regular Charity; and obey the Messenger; that ye may receive mercy. Never think thou that the Unbelievers are going to frustrate (Allah’s Plan) on earth: Their abode is the Fire—and it is indeed an evil refuge!” (al Nur, 24:55-57)

When in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve their allegiance to another and assume the rights of administration over their own affairs, as granted to them by God, it is only natural that they should declare the causes which impel them to seek their independence.

We hold these truths to be self-evident: that mankind in general has been endowed by their Creator with intelligence and free will; that these assets should be employed by those in power toward the pursuit of righteous and just ends, as defined by God’s guidance; and that whenever any form of government habitually transgresses the bounds of righteousness and equity, it is the responsibility of God-serving people to champion the right of self-determination—to alter that government, and to institute a new form of administration that is in conformity with the eternal principles and values of God’s Law; a government which is both human-friendly and earth-friendly.

Prudent and just means must be employed to accomplish the establishment of such a government. The timeless prescribed methods to address tyranny are threefold: the usage of the hand (physical or military might), the tongue (to raise our voices in defense of Truth and justice), or the heart (to detest it internally and implore for God’s assistance).

The history of the Zionist-occupied United States government has been one of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an oppressive and tyrannical world order. Prudence demands that we, the oppressed, list some of our outstanding grievances in this regard:

The U.S. government has waged a 40-year “War on Drugs” which is, in actuality, a war on Black people, characterized by the following aims: destroying the family and community (in which it has been 100% effective); taking away constitutional rights and guarantees; turning urban centers into police states; and criminalizing the whole Black and Latino community.

It has also maintained a “War on Terror” based on a falsely-created “Muslim threat.” This staged war is in actuality meant to achieve the following goals: stopping the global Islamic revival which has been steadily gaining momentum across the world, from the U.S. to Palestine; branding the spirited self-defense, self-determination, and other good works of Muslims as ‘terrorism’; and changing the public image of Muslims from advocates of education, development, and social justice, to one of barbaric and mindless terrorists.

It has steadily maintained a policy of torture and intimidation, denying Muslims due process of law; blowing up buildings around the world using intelligence operatives and agent provocateurs (who often pose as Muslims); invading and interfering in the internal affairs (directly or indirectly) of Afghanistan, Somalia, Iraq, and Pakistan; employing destabilization policies against Sudan and Iran; killing over a million Muslims in Iraq; and using governments like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Egypt, Jordan, and Algeria to suppress and fight against the global Islamic movement, which seeks only to secure its right of self-determination based on God’s Law.

It has denied the right of Muslims to freely collect and distribute Zakah, which is an obligatory duty of Islam. It has placed Masjids, Islamic schools, charity foundations, and Qur’anic institutions under the probe of its Gestapo (FBI) surveillance network. It has converted imams into FBI informants. It has entrapped several innocent believers through deceitful intelligence operations (schemes), with the intent of demonizing Muslims in the public eye.

All of the above actions, on the part of the Zionist-occupied U.S. government, has created an atmosphere of pervasive fear, that exists both nationally (via the FBI, Homeland Security, Immigration, and others) and internationally (via the CIA and its partners in crime throughout the globe).

JOIN US at Masjid Al-Islam for an afternoon of courage and clarity, where Imam Musa will, insha’Allah, give a detailed discussion on two very critical and timely topics: the Re-Africanization of the Islamic movement in North America & the De-Israelization of the global Islamic movement.

For further information, call 202.904.1152. Directions via Metro: Take the blue line to the Benning Road stop and walk 3 blocks to the intersection of Benning Road & C Street SE.