Recent events have become a tipping point for conversation on anti-blackness and racism in the United States. In light of George Floyd’s death, we have seen many reactions from different members of the Muslim community (both in the US and outside). Many were inspiring, but many were disappointing and show that non-black Muslims have a lot to learn.
This article serves to be a point of reflection and offers a practical guide and lots of resources to unlearn anti-blackness and racism through the lens of Islam.
Racism is not inherent, it is taught
We read in the Quran what means:
{Allah asked, “What prevented you from prostrating when I commanded you?” He replied, “I am better than he is: You created me from fire and him from clay.”} (Al-A`raf 7:12)
We often hear that Iblees was the first racist in history. And while this depiction is a bit of an oversimplification of racism, it points out a huge foundation of racism; arrogance.
One of the biggest set-ups for failure in tackling anti-blackness and racism is to assume that it is a switch that can just be turned off with minimal effort.
As a basis, we must understand racism as a form of arrogance and pride. We know the fate of Iblees, so we understand that replicating his characteristics through racism puts us at risk for the same fate. That is no gamble that anyone should be willing to take.
Allah says:
{O humanity! Indeed, We created you from a male and a female, and made you into peoples and tribes so that you may ˹get to˺ know one another. Surely the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous among you. Allah is truly All-Knowing, All-Aware.} (Al-Hujurat 49:13)
Racism is taught and learned. People learn racism when stereotypes about black people become jokes among your friends. It is taught when the only time you only invite black Muslim scholars to your mosque to speak about racism.
It is taught when aunties make negative comments about dark skin. And yet, the above verse elevates the sin of racism, no matter how subtle it may be.
Understand that, at its core, racism and anti-blackness is not just oppression of the creation. It is a disrespect to the Creator.
Why? Because Allah created different nations as a sign of His might. So when you have a problem with His creation, you truly have a problem with Him.
What is it that you have seen, heard, believed that led you to be comfortable with seeing a creation of Allah as less than you?
So, what can we do about this disease? Check the 3-step guide in the next page.
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