BLACK HISTORY MONTH

IMAM WARITH DEEN MOHAMMED Religious leader (1933-) Warith Deen Mohammed was born in Chicago, Illinois the seventh of eight children, to Clara Muhammed and Elijah Muhammed (historic leader of the Nation of Islam) “We can’t think [of separation] …and live in America and claim a share in the benefits of this country you know. If we are going to live in this country and claim a share in the fruits of this country, then we have to identify in the national aspirations of the people.” Mentor to El-Hajj-Malik Shabazz (Malcolm X), he assumed the leadership of the Nation of Islam in 1975, after the passing of his father, he immediately began transforming the community from a nationalistic philosophy to the universally accepted principles of the Islamic faith. His insights and emphasis on the balanced practice of the religion (as the Holy Qur’an dictates and as Prophet Mohammed, (peace be upon him), of 1400’ years ago. Has currently placed him as the leader of the largest communities of Muslims in North America. He is a respected religious authority for Muslims, throughout the world. Imam Mohammed has been a major catalyst for bridging the gap between Islam, Christianity and Judaism. He says that all three religions are descended from Prophet Abraham (peace be upon him) and are the fulfillment of the promise that All-Mighty God made to Abraham that his seed would be plentiful and multiply the earth. He feels that working together to heal the ills of the society should not be a problem. Islam is a religion that encompasses the total life of the human being; there is no separation of religion, education, politics, business, etc. Imam Mohammed’s leadership has been reflective of this. His emphasis on developing and perfecting educational institutions, participation in politics, business and industry has encouraged an amazing community growth in these areas. In his travels, he has visited kings and presidents all over the world, accepted an invitation from the Pope of Rome on two occasions to discuss interfaith and world issues, and in 1999, met with Former President Of South Africa, Nelson Mandela. He is also the International President of the World Conference on Religion and Peace and sat on former President Clinton’s Religious Advisory Council.