The huge outcry over the killing of George Floyd by a police officer reflects the deep pains and grievances caused by racism. This malady deserves serious reaction on all levels.
As Muslims we are always proud of the clear-cut stance that Islam adopts against racism. We often repeat the amazing Quran verses and Prophet’s traditions that emphasize human equality and condemn racial discrimination. However, are we really up to this lofty standard?
📚 Read Also: Islamic Prescription for Racial Discrimination
In this interview, Dr. Yasir Qadhi hosts Imam Zaid Shakir, an American Muslim scholar and co-founder of Zaytuna college to talk about Muslims and the race issue.
In this Interview
1- What was the reaction of the community to Imam Zaid Shakir’s decision to convert to Islam in 1977?
2- Muslims in the U.S. come from two extremely different socio-economic backgrounds. On the one hand, there is the extremely wealthy, and on the other other hand, there is the extremely impoverished. Any practical steps to bridge the gap between the two groups?
3- How can we resolve the struggle between the second generation who are more sensitive to racism issues and the first generation?
4- In light of all that is happening, what is Imam Shakir’s take on protests; some people in the community think that protests are not permissible from an Islamic perspective?
5- What specific books and documentaries Imam Shakir recommends to be better educated about this topic?
Join Dr. Yasir Qadhi and Imam Zaid Shakir’s in this interesting, eye-opening interview.