This past Saturday, I attended a symposium at Emerson Community School hosted by Plainfield's Masjidullah Mosque, home of the first Muslim community in our city. The program, which was very well-attended, was titled "What is Islam and Who Are the Muslims?" After a warm welcome by emcee Mahdee Najeeullah and a most gracious prayer by Imam Khalil Abdul-Aziz, the panelists began their respective presentations. The crowd listened attentively to "The Evolution of Islam in the African American Community," by Imam Mujahiddeen Mohammed of the Inheritance Guidance Center, New Freedom District in Philadelphia, "Reflections of a Female Muslim College Student," by Rahma Dukerey, and "Growing Up as a Muslim," by Zarinah Raheem.
"The History of Al-Islam in Newark" was presented by noted Islamic scholar and author Mikal Naeem Nash, who also happens to be my colleague at Essex County College, where, as a Professor of History, he teaches African American history and World Civilizations.
In the lobby, visitors were treated to the beautiful artwork of the very talented Imani Sylvain and Sunah Nash. In addition, the program featured spoken word poetry by Sister Fajr Kegler and a Quran recitation by Jean and Leola Wade. It was wonderful to see so many young people--elementary, middle, high school, and college students as presenters in the symposium.
The Plainfield City Council was represented by Councilmen Barry Goode and Steve Hockaday as well as yours truly, and Councilman Goode delivered a resolution on behalf of the governing body.
Although I had to leave before the final roundtable discussions and the bountiful feast prepared for the guests, I can attest to the great success of this endeavor, and I would be remiss if I did not mention the great work done by program coordinator Maxine Salaam, and all the volunteers who put the program together. I think that such programs are imperative for us to succeed as a community, and it is my hope that there will be more like it in the future!
All best,
Rebecca
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