For the last few days, a tragic incident involving family members of prominent Imam Siraj Wahhaj  has been circulating.

The Imam’s son, also named Siraj, was arrested on child abuse charges at a New Mexico compound.

The story, involving his children and grandchildren attracted nationwide attention placing Imam Wahhaj in the media’s spotlight.

Imam Siraj Wahhaj explains what happened

Imam Wahhaj has publicly distanced himself from his son’s actions. In fact, he was cooperative and responsible in helping police locate the 11 other children found during the raid. He recounts in this video what happened and refutes allegations  circulated in some sensational media:

Of course this is no easy challenge.

With the recent rise of Islamaphobia in the country, some media outlets hastened to point fingers to Imam Wahhaj and to add fuel to the already raging fire. A statement by Muslim Anti-Racism Collaborative (Muslim ARC) condemned the biased, Islamophobic, racist coverage:

We condemn the sensationalist and irresponsible media coverage that has centered language about Imam Siraj being an “unindicted co-conspirator” to refer to this tragic situation involving his family. Referring to alleged but unproven charges reflects anti-Black media bias in pulling up the records of the victims’ family members and perpetuates a pattern of Islamophobic news coverage where Muslims are always found guilty by association.

Undoubtedly during these times of tribulation there is a lot of propaganda and excitement.

As Muslims it is significant we verify news  as is required in Islam, Allah says:

{O you who believe! If a rebellious evil person comes to you with a news, verify it, lest you harm people in ignorance, and afterwards you become regretful to what you have done.} (Al-Hujurat 49:6)

Imams and scholars show solidarity

An crowdfunding initiative has been launched by Imams in support of their valued colleague. Imam Zaid Shakir, Dr. Yasir Qadhi, Imam Omar Suleiman, Imam Tahir Anwar, Imam Suhaib Webb, and others, are taking the responsibility to help Imam Siraj in this difficult time.

They have urged the Muslim community to support their Imam to ensure the welfare of his grandchildren during this difficult and trying time:

“This tragedy necessitates an interruption in Imam Siraj’s schedule. He will need legal help and other expenses to ensure the welfare of his grandchildren.”

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