These “little messengers” share the Teachings of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad, under the leadership, example and guidance of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan.

We thank the F.O.I. for their commitment and service as helpers in the cause of Islam and for taking the light, life, and power of the Teachings to cities and towns around the country. May Allah (God) continue to bless our dear brothers.

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The effort led by Student F.O.I. Captain Sharrieff Muhammad, included an afternoon of bonding, training, conversation, food,
and fun, and was held at a local park on Aug. 8. Student Minister Troy Muhammad of Mosque No. 1 enjoyed the outing and
expressed his sentiments via social media, touting the “extreme” value of the outing.

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Our Dear and Beloved Sister
by Student National M.G.T. and G.C.C. Captain Naeemah Muhammad

As I reflect on the life and work of Sister Betsy Jean Farrakhan, I cannot help but think of the words of Jesus in John 15:13, which says, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” She was the embodiment of a profound love that translated into profound duty, which led to profound works. Coupled with her warrior spirit, this made her an unstoppable force in whatever she set out to do. It was more than an honor to work with her and learn from her. It wouldn’t take long for us to realize that we were cut from the same cloth.

Sister Betsy Jean and I shared a bond and a love that we affectionately called “Crazy Love.” We shared that Crazy Love for Allah, the Christ and the Messiah, and a Crazy Love for each other and the sisterhood. This is the kind of love that produced a deep and immensely profound duty to the Messiah and to the people that He was sent to raise.

Sister Betsy Jean loved to sit at His feet, feed on His Word, and reveled in the work of making that Word flesh. Whatever He instructed her to do, she was found carrying it out with no hesitation. Wherever He said go, she didn’t just go; she was found swiftly running there. His Word was Her Bond and her Life, and she would give her Life before her word to Him would fail.

Watching her in motion, locking step with her father, the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, and moving in strict obedience to his guidance and instructions inspired me to strive to do the same. In her life and work that was born from love, I saw both myself and the woman I desire to pattern myself after in her complete devotion to Allah, the Mahdi, the Messiah, and the Cause of Islam. To witness her in motion was amazing to behold. She was strong yet feminine, disciplined yet compassionate; a warrior with a loving heart who was willing to sacrifice for her father, her people, and the Nation of Islam.

That love is woven into everything I write here because mere words are far too inadequate to express the indelible mark that Sister Betsy Jean Farrakhan left on the Nation of Islam and the Believers, but perhaps most deeply on the women and girls she loved, taught, and trained. She carried the tremendous responsibility of serving as the first National M.G.T. and G.C.C. Captain under the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan. Therefore, if it were not for her, I would not be. Her leadership set the standard for every Student National M.G.T. Captain who came after her. Under the guidance and direction of her father, the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, Sister Betsey Jean helped lay a firm foundation for the Muslim Girls Training and General Civilization Class. More than a superwoman, she was able to accomplish this while also being a devoted wife and mother who loved her people mightily. Wherever Allah placed her hands, she worked. Wherever duty called, she answered. She just could not help herself because she was driven and compelled by that “Crazy Love.”

She was a sister and a soldier, a captain and a farmer, a daughter and a friend. She was dearly loved and will be truly missed. And I will carry our Crazy Love for the Three, the sisterhood, and for each other with me always. Her life and work have inspired me to follow in her footsteps to press on in the work and the mission in strict obedience to the Messiah as a helper in the cause of Islam.

We thank Allah for the life of our dear and beloved Sister Betsy Jean Farrakhan and for her tremendous service and sacrifice to this Nation. Though she is no longer physically among us, her work continues through the lives she touched, the seeds she sowed, the women she trained, and the standard she established. May Allah forever be pleased with our dear Sister Betsy Jean, and may He bring peace and comfort to the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, the entire Farrakhan Family, and the Believers during this time.

Sister Naeemah Muhammad is the Student National M.G.T. and G.C.C. Captain and was appointed in 2010. She is also a member of the N.O.I. Shura Executive Council.

In Honor of Our Beloved Sister Betsy Jean Farrakhan
by A’ishah Muhammad

“The Messenger believes in what has been revealed to him from his Lord, and (so do) the believers. They all believe in Allah and His angels and His Books and His messengers.” —Holy Quran Surah 2:285

Steadfast and fierce, incomparable and legendary! Sister Captain Emeritus Betsy Jean Farrakhan proved to the very end that she was in fact a Believer in Allah, Who Came in the Person of Master Fard Muhammad.

Even as she was facing her eventual return to Allah, she leaned on Him; she called on Him and she never forsook Allah with disappointment, anger or acrimony. Our beloved sister lived by her oath stated in the Holy Qur’an, “My life and my death are all for Allah!” She made no associate with Allah, and she fully submitted her will.

Her stalwart example reminded me of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, her beloved father, when in his decades-ago “death bed” confession he thanked Allah (God) for allowing him to be a part of His Creation. He did not beg for more time as he put his complete and unwavering faith and trust in Allah with great strength and humility.

As the first-born child of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan and Mother Khadijah Farrakhan, Sister Betsy Jean was a great helper to the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan in the rebuilding of the Nation of Islam. A faithful follower of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad, under the leadership of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, Sister Betsy Jean represented her father and mother excellently as a true example of a Muslim woman; a woman of grace, dignity and unquestionable strength.

I had the honor and privilege of serving under and alongside Sister Emeritus Captain Betsy Jean Farrakhan since the 1980s and have enjoyed a beautiful relationship through the years. I have many memories of the first Muslim Girls Training and General Civilization Class (M.G.T. and G.C.C.) national curriculum developed under her tenure as I served as the National M.G.T. Vanguard Captain and Sister Donna Farrakhan, the National Vanguard Directress. Sister Betsy Jean modeled what a National Captain was while at the same time being an attentive wife and adoring mother who not only taught the 7-Training Units, but she also lived them!

While we live in a time when it appears that most people do not live by the principles of the lives of the prophets that we claim to follow, Sister Betsy Jean did not just talk about it, she walked it with quiet authority and a commanding presence! Sister Besty Jean compelled admiration and deep respect by the undeniable and unshakable inmost conviction of her being.

She will be sorely missed but we will carry her wherever we go because like her her Beautiful Mother Khadijah Farrakhan,, our First Lady of the Nation of Islam, we will continue to carry them both with us through their words, their wise counsel, and deep love for Allah’s people, wherever we go. We cannot thank Almighty (God) Allah enough for the gift of these two precious women that we are still coming to learn more of.

Alhamdullilah (All Praise is due to Allah)!!! May Allah strengthen and comfort the entire Farrakhan family.

Sister A’ishah Muhammad served as Chicago M.G.T. and G.C.C. Captain 1986-1988 and National M.G.T. and G.C.C. Captain 1996-2010. She is currently the National Auditing Supervisor and a member of the Nation of Islam Shura Executive Council.

A Diamond Among Women
by Charlene Muhammad

A Captain’s Captain. A warrior in the cause of Islam. A force of nature. A kind, gentle soul. A defender of women. These words help describe Sister Betsy Jean Farrakhan, the first-born child of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan and Mother Khadijah Farrakhan.

Sister Betsy Jean Farrakhan was appointed by the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan in 1988 to serve as the first National M.G.T. and G.C.C. Captain of the Nation of Islam. She set the standard and the bar for all National M.G.T. Captains that have served in the post after her.

Sister Betsy Jean loved her father. Everything she did for the M.G.T. and G.C.C. was on behalf of her father. She was so much like her father that when I became the National M.G.T. Captain after her it seemed to me they were one in the same. Most of the words I would hear her say often were, “My father wants the sisters to be treated well.”

She didn’t want any sisters who were over sisters to mistreat or mishandle the sisters.

Sister Captain Betsy Jean loved the M.G T and G.C.C. and was like “mother hen” over her chicks wanting them to be the best and be taught the best. She wanted them to soar to the heights of grace, elegance, and style. She also didn’t want M.G.T. to be cowards in the face of danger and if we were cowards or had weak knees, she made us into warriors.

When I look back on our time together, she had the awesome and unenviable responsibility of putting order to the M.G.T. classes not only in Chicago but all across the country. She set up the Regional M.G.T. Captains in Los Angeles; Atlanta; Washington, D.C. and Houston, something that we never had under this dispensation. At that time, we didn’t have a Central Regional M.G.T. Captain. Sister Betsy Jean was local, Central and National M.G.T. Captain all in one.

She wanted all the classes to be uniform, meaning what was taught in Chicago would be taught across the country. She made sure that we all had our white M.G.T. uniforms with our white gloves, white shoes and white pocketbooks/purses. She said you were not a well-dressed M.G.T. unless you had all three, including your M.G.T. bar pin.

Sister Betsy Jean crisscrossed the country setting up M.G.T. classes, sometimes with her security, Sister Victoria Muhammad, and sometimes with me. Sometimes she would show up unannounced. She said that if she was announced the sisters would put on a show, and she wanted to see the class in its actuality. She said, “how can you correct something if you can’t see the defects.”

There were many facets to Sister Betsy Jean. I did not know the gentle side until years later when we were no longer in the post. She allowed me to see her “farmer” side. I heard the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan say at a meeting that they had found a way to grow food that was 98 percent toxin free. I was very interested in this, so I called the National House to get more information. The secretary wrote down my message, and a few hours later Sister Betsy Jean called me to invite me to the Michigan Farm to learn the process. She told me don’t come dressy, wear your coveralls and boots.

I rode up with one of the cooks of Minister Farrakhan and spent the day learning about the process. I learned about red wrigglers (worms) who eat organic waste and turn it into nutrient rich fertilizers. Sister Betsy Jean loved those red wrigglers and took good care of them. She did all of this out of love for her father so that his food would not have the toxicity of chemicals and fertilizers that can cause illnesses in the body.

After a long day, we went to eat and we laughed and joked until I had to leave to go back to the farm to go home.

I recently saw her and we spent the day reminiscing about our days together.

May Allah (God) bless this standard of Womanhood, Defender of the Faith of Islam, Exemplar of Divine Elegance and Grace. A sparkling diamond, like unto a star.

She had stopped calling me Charlene and called me “Sha Sha.” Her last words she ever spoke to me were “I love you, Sha Sha.”

I love you too, Sister Captain Betsy Jean. You are my Captain, my sister and my friend.

May Allah grant you Jannah (paradise).

Sister Charlene Muhammad served as National M.G.T. & G.C.C. Captain from 1993-1996.

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The above statement by the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan is a statement all of us should consider. As the genocide against the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank continues, governments and people around the world are most certainly being tested. Whether we pass or fail, this particular test will ultimately be determined by Almighty God, Allah. This puts us all in the valley of decision.

Lines are clearly being established: people who are outspoken in their support of the Palestinian people and condemn the genocidal actions of Israel, and people who, in their blind loyalty to Israel, attempt to silence these outspoken voices with the false label of “anti-Semitism.” For what? For simply having compassion, being sensitive to human suffering, and having the nerve to express sympathy for Palestinian suffering? This support often comes with a cost to those who dare speak out: smears by the media, threats to careers, livelihoods, or fines.

Those who fail to see the suffering of the Palestinian people are willing to use their money, influence, and power to try to silence and punish these voices for freedom, justice, and equality due to a blind loyalty to Israel and to certain members of the Jewish community.

But strong voices and actions from entertainers and athletes are continuing to join the chorus of others around the world who are standing up for Palestine and condemning the atrocities perpetrated by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli regime.

Recently, Grammy-winning rap and pop artist Macklemore was removed from multi-platinum artist Ed Sheeran’s tour for simply expressing his support for Palestine. During an early September stop of the tour at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Macklemore said in part: “I said Free Palestine. I want those words to be loud and clear, so the people from Gaza, all the way to the occupied West Bank, know that we have not forgotten them.” He also stated, “To all of my Jewish brothers and sisters: criticism of Israel, criticism of apartheid, being against genocide in no way is a criticism of you. My message is for peace; love for all human beings to be treated with dignity, respect, and equality. So, I say Free Palestine, I say Free Lebanon, I say Free Cuba, I say Free Congo, Free Sudan, I say free all people in America living in fear of this terrorist organization, ICE. None of us will be free until we are all free.”

It was later reported that Robert Kraft, the Jewish billionaire owner of the NFL’s New England Patriots and owner of Gillette Stadium, and friend of Prime Minister Netanyahu, contacted Ed Sheeran. According to Macklemore, Kraft told Sheeran that he had contacted other NFL owners and would not allow the rapper to perform at their stadiums.

Macklemore was subsequently removed from the tour. However, in a sign of solidarity, other artists withdrew, including Finneas, who posted on Instagram, “Artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed. I have decided to withdraw from my upcoming tour dates with Ed Sheeran. I stand with Palestine and its people.” 

Azeez Al-Shaair, a pro-bowl linebacker with the NFL’s Houston Texans, also continues to take a stand. He was recently fined $11,492 for wearing “Hind Rajab” on his eye back during the first game of the season. Hind was a five-year-old Palestinian girl who was killed in Gaza City in 2024 along with other family members when Israeli troops fired multiple shots into their vehicle.

NBA star Kyrie Irving offered to pay his fellow athlete’s fine, posting on social media, “I’ll take care of his fine.” Last season, Al-Shaair was fined for wearing “Stop The Genocide.”

The topic of Israel and Palestine has been a volatile one for decades. In the 78 years since the State of Israel’s establishment in the Middle East, world sentiment has firmly been on the side of the occupier state for the most part. However, since its inception in 1948, which led to the expulsion and displacement of 700,000-750,000 Palestinians from their homeland, those left behind have been under an apartheid system. The Israeli government, with the help of the United States, has made daily life and conditions unbearable for the Palestinian people.

The U.S. government continues sending billions of dollars to Israel. The Trump administration is reportedly planning to deliver powerful 2,000-pound bombs to Israel as part of an upcoming $2.8 billion arms package which, according to Associated Press, “includes 40,000 of the bombs, made up of 20,000 Mk84s and 20,000 BLU-117s, according to two U.S. officials and a person familiar with the plan who spoke Sept. 15 on condition of anonymity to discuss the package, which is not yet final.” Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-NY), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and his counterpart Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) placed a hold on the package, expressing concerns about more civilians being harmed, according to reporting from various news outlets. “All of us share concern about what Israel is doing,” Senator Shaheen told CNN.

America and Israel seem determined to continue their warmongering. But the opposition and pushback is getting stronger.

The Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad, the Eternal Leader of the Nation of Islam, warned of what would unfold in the Middle East, which is now unfolding today. In pages 171-172 of His landmark book, “The Fall of America,” in the chapter, “The Destruction and Fall,” the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad writes, “America and England deposited their little brother, Israel, on foreign soil, Palestine, which is Arab land. They deprived the Arabs of their own land and sent them into exile.” He then warns, “This injustice against the Arabs is now costing America the power and authority that she once exercised in the East. She is on her way out of the Near East. This means bloodshed and plenty of it.”

There have been nearly 73,000 deaths and 174,900 wounded in Gaza since October 7, 2023.

As Minister Farrakhan noted, we cannot and must not turn a blind eye to the plight of what the Palestinians have and continue to suffer under an apartheid regime.

“If you could look at their suffering, and it don’t move you, you have lost your humanity.  If you can see a dog suffer and have compassion … . If you can see your favorite horse suffer, where you’ve got to put him down, you feel pain!  Palestinian mothers are crying over the loss of their children!  I watched them cry; I watched them touch their babies that are dead, and don’t want to let the baby go to be buried,” Minister Farrakhan said during his 2024 Saviours’ Day message.

“That’s not a barbarian feeling, that’s a human feeling.  I saw Jews that were suffering, too, burying their dead, and weeping as the Palestinians are weeping.  These are not barbarians!  They have suffered from Israel’s presence in Palestine,” Minister Farrakhan said.

Are we on the side of freedom, justice, and equality for all, or on the side that chooses to remain silent, acquiesce, and compromise for comfort, while others suffer? The choice is ours. Today, we are all in the valley of decision.

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By the grace of Almighty God Allah, the Nation of Islam successfully reestablished its Prison Reform Ministry at the Coleman Federal Correctional Complex on June 24 after nearly three years since the institution’s last visit by Brother Abdullah Muhammad, Student National Prison Reform Minister of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan and the Nation of Islam.

The June visit included Student Minister Chad Muhammad of Mosque No. 47 in Tampa, and Student Minister Ali S. Muhammad of the Nation of Islam Prison Reform Ministry. Their mission was clear: to serve and encourage incarcerated brothers through the Life-Giving Teachings of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad, as taught by the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan.

Coleman Federal Correction Complex is a federal prison complex for male inmates in unincorporated Sumter County, Florida, near Wildwood.

Since the last visit in 2024 by Student National Prison Reform Minister Abdullah Muhammad, his presence had remained fresh in the memory of many of the incarcerated brothers. During interactions across multiple areas of the Coleman complex, several brothers independently asked about him—how he was doing, when he might return, and expressed sincere appreciation for the beauty and spirit of what he shared during that previous visit. Many voiced that they were praying for his well-being and hoping for his return to continue the uplifting work he, on behalf of Minister Farrakhan began among them. This sentiment was shared directly with Student Minister Ali during several of the engagements as the delegation moved from unit to unit throughout the facility.

The effort to return to Coleman required years of persistence through institutional procedures and administrative review. Progress came in March 2026 through the assistance of longtime Nation of Islam friend and Christian chaplain, Brother Henry Dale, who helped move the application process forward.

Unexpectedly, shortly before the visit, Chaplain Dale retired from the institution. Rather than allowing the process to end, communication continued, and by Allah’s Grace, Chaplain Juan Alba completed the process that had been initiated and helped secure final approval for the visit.

Upon arrival, the delegation was received by the institution’s mentor and program coordinator, Ms. Cote, whose professionalism helped facilitate a full day of ministry throughout the prison complex.

The schedule included sessions across the designated institutions within the Coleman complex, including USP I, Coleman Medium, Coleman Low, and Coleman Camp. A lockdown interrupted plans for USP II, requiring that session to be postponed for a future visit. By day’s end, 37 incarcerated brothers had been personally ministered to.

At Coleman Camp, one attendee who identified himself as agnostic participated actively in discussion and expressed agreement with the social reform principles presented, stating that the message carried value beyond religious background. The interaction demonstrated how principles rooted in justice, accountability, and human dignity can reach broadly.

The prison reform ministry remained grounded in scripture. The Bible states: “But this is a people robbed and spoiled; they are all of them snared in holes, and they are hid in prison houses …”—Isaiah 42:22

And: “Shall the prey be taken from the mighty, or the lawful captive delivered? … Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away.”—Isaiah 49:24–25

These verses continue to inspire the Nation of Islam’s prison reform work and reinforce the belief that those who are incarcerated are not forgotten by Almighty God Allah.

Following the guidance of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan to become extensions of his love through service to the sick, the shut-in, and the incarcerated, the first session opened at USP with: “In the Name of Allah.”

Student Minister Ali began each session with the opening message from the Nation of Islam National webcast introduction by the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan. The message emphasized knowledge, re-education, retraining, and uplifting humanity through the Teachings of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad. Those words established the tone throughout the day.

Approximately 70% of attendees identified as Christians, while others included members of the Nation of Islam, members of the Five Percent Nation, and participants who expressed appreciation for the Nation of Islam’s message of spiritual, moral, and social reform.

Student Minister Chad Muhammad delivered a deeply personal testimony in each session. Drawing from his own experience, he shared how he overcame adversity and circumstances that once led him into prison. He explained that through accepting and applying the discipline found in the Teachings of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad, Allah transformed his life and enabled him to become a productive servant to his people and now a student minister at Mosque No. 47.

His testimony reflected Revelation 12:11 in the Bible which states: “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony … .”

His sincerity resonated deeply with the incarcerated brothers, many of whom expressed appreciation for hearing directly from someone who had personally experienced incarceration and rebuilt his life through faith, discipline, and service.

During question-and-answer sessions, participants expressed gratitude for the Nation of Islam’s presence and repeatedly stated they could have listened throughout the day. Several asked about the health and well-being of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan and shared their desire to contribute their own talents and abilities in support of the Nation of Islam.

There was also strong interest in receiving additional Nation of Islam materials, including books, newspapers, and study guides. Participants expressed appreciation for the materials distributed and remained engaged throughout each session. Many stated the day’s message renewed their hope and encouraged them to treat incarceration as a season of preparation rather than despair. Student Minister Chad encouraged each man to use his time to grow spiritually, mentally, morally, and educationally so that upon release he could return to his family and community as a positive and productive citizen.

Relationships were also established with incarcerated brothers who agreed to serve as future points of contact within the institutions. Muhammad’s Mosque No. 47 further supported the effort through distribution of reading materials, including The Final Call newspaper and “Message to the Blackman in America” by the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad.

By Allah’s Grace, the visit reestablished meaningful relationships with the incarcerated and institutional staff and laid a foundation for continued prison ministry in the future.

We extend our sincere appreciation to our Student 7th Regional Prison Ministry Coordinator, Brother Zachariah Muhammad, whose tireless leadership continues to strengthen the prison reform ministry and the efforts of Student 7th Regional Minister Patrick Muhammad throughout the 7th Region of the Nation of Islam.

All praise is due to Almighty God Allah for granting this opportunity to serve His people.

As-Salaam Alaikum (Peace Be Unto You)

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PHOENIX—Muhammad Mosque No. 32 brought the Nation of Islam’s Musical Ensemble “Sounds of Harmony” concert tour to a sold-out theatre in Phoenix, Arizona, offering an evening in which music became a vehicle for healing, inspiration and a glimpse into what is possible.

The evening was riveting as the theatre was filled with sounds that were emotional, piercing and stirring. For many the Sept. 5 event was their first time attending a concert highlighting classical music. The experience was described as “amazing, incredible and inspiring.”

The works of Beethoven, Bach and Schubert filled the theatre, alongside original compositions by the talented members of the ensemble. Between performances, videos of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan were the backdrop; highlighting his musical journey and the special influences of his mother Sumayyah Farrakhan and his wife Mother Khadijah Farrakhan.

For those who attended, the evening was more than an opportunity to hear beautiful music performed by youth and young adults whose skill, to many, seemed far beyond their age. Audience members described being moved spiritually and emotionally.

Parents saw possibilities for their children. Guests heard the healing power of music. Young people saw themselves reflected onstage and were inspired by the idea they can one day be musicians too with a new appreciation for classical music. Throughout the evening, one theme continued to resonate:Our future is indeed bright.

Nation of Islam Western Regional Student Minister Abdul Malik Sayyid Muhammad explained that when the ensemble performed in Los Angeles, believers from Phoenix were there to witness it. “They were so inspired and said, we want to be next.”

That desire set in motion the work of bringing Sounds of Harmony to the Valley of the Sun. For Student Min. Abdul Malik Sayyid, what was experienced in Los Angeles went far beyond entertainment. “You could feel the healing power of the music coming from these young people.”

The Sounds of Harmony represents an important step toward fulfilling the desire of Minister Farrakhan for the establishment of a Nation of Islam Symphony Orchestra.

The Shura Executive Council of the Nation of Islam began taking steps to bring the desire of Minister Farrakhan to life by creating opportunities for the ensemble to showcase its talents throughout the Nation. Those efforts developed into the Sounds of Harmony concert tour, which began in the summer of 2024.

Minister Farrakhan offered words of encouragement to members of the ensemble on February 25, 2024, at Saviours’ Day in Detroit: “All of you were so great, we have a talented family among us, and I want to encourage you to keep going and inspiring others to pick up an instrument and let’s make The Nation of Islam Symphony Orchestra a reality!”

For Sister Kameela Latif, the music reached somewhere deeply personal. “My experience was very spiritual,” she said. “I was feeling very emotional while I was listening to the music, and I was also feeling joy and happiness.”

She was particularly moved to see young musicians performing compositions of their own. “Their compositions were beautiful,” she said. “They really touched me.” The most meaningful moment came from her son. After watching the young musicians perform, he said, “Mom, I believe I can do this too.” 

Student Western Regional M.G.T. and G.C.C. Captain Sajdah Karriem expressed similar pride as she watched the young musicians. “I am so excited about this event,” she said. “I’m so proud of our young people. It’s amazing to see them at this age playing these instruments.” 

For Sister Alitash Muhammad, who comes from a musical background, the concert was “absolutely electrifying.” She described it as beautiful and heartfelt. Her appreciation extended across the entire ensemble.

“I loved every single instrument all the way down to the cymbals, because I come from a musical background.” She was also moved that the tour came West. “I feel honored that they’ve come to the West Coast … to show their love for Phoenix, Arizona. I love that.”

Sister Maryam Muhammad was excited to see “the beautiful music, the beautiful talent.” She is the mother of 10 children, nine of whom play musical instruments. “We have classical, we have guitar, drums, piano, violin, viola, cello,” she said. “We’re trying to build our own little orchestra here.”

Sister Rashida Muhammad was inspired saying, “I think when given the opportunity, it just shows you the abilities that it doesn’t matter the age,” she said. “You don’t have to be a certain age to become successful or to master something.

When you have a made-up mind and a willing spirit, you can do anything.” Seeing young people accomplish something so extraordinary is simply “beautiful,” she added.

For Sis. Sakinah Muhammad, seeing young people represented within the ensemble created a connection to her generation. “I think it connects to us, especially having a lot of the ensemble representing the youth as well,” she said.

“We are a very musical generation. I love music. I’m always at concerts. I’m always at other people’s concerts,” Sis. Sakinah continued. “It’s good to finally be able to attend one of our concerts as well.” 

Interim Student Minister Tremikus Muhammad of Mosque No. 32 had previously experienced the tour in Los Angeles. He thought he might experience the same concert again. What he encountered surprised him.

“I thought that I would see the same thing that I saw in L.A.,” he said. “But I didn’t. The spirit was new. And the spirit still touched me. This is an experience that is unimaginable, unspeakable,” he said. “You have to have it for yourself.”

For him, their presence challenges an image of Black youth too often associated with violence and chaos and replaces it with another image—one of young people who are highly gifted, intelligent, spiritually grounded and capable of translating their gifts through music.

The evening’s program demonstrated the breadth of the ensemble’s musical development. Act I included Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No. 5, performed by Bro. Timothy Muhammad, and Dmitry Kabalevsky’s Concerto in C Major, Op. 48, performed by violinist Bro. Abdul-Malik Muhammad with Sis. Vivian Mosley accompanied on piano.

The String Ensemble performed the third movement of J.S. Bach’s Concerto for Two Violins in D Minor. Sis. Khadijah Y. Muhammad, soprano and vocalist also performed Franz Schubert’s “Ave Maria” with Sis. Vivian on piano.

The selection was presented as a tribute to Mother Sumayyah Farrakhan, the mother of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan. That tribute carried particular meaning given the role Minister Farrakhan’s mother played in nurturing his musical gifts during his childhood.

Act II continued the connection between music and family with Jules Massenet’s “Meditation (from Thaïs),” presented as a tribute to Mother Khadijah Farrakhan, wife of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan.

The mistress and master of ceremony Sis. Arian Muhammad and Bro. Nasir Muhammad navigated everyone through the program as guests enjoyed performances by Bro. Markel Reed of “Ain’t Got Time to Die” and “Don’t Feel No-Ways Tired.”

The concert also gave everyone an opportunity to hear original compositions including “Evolution” by E.W. Hardy performed by Sis. Amirah I. Muhammad, “Moon” by Bro. Henry Leon Akbarkhan Muhammad, “Avenger” ‘

by Bro. Abdul Karriem Muhammad, and “The Wheel” by Bro. Farrad Muhammad. The evening concluded with “The Fight Song,” by the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad, performed by the ensemble.

Brother Hashim Hakim was in Phoenix for rehabilitation following a serious automobile accident. At one point, he said, doctors told him he would remain paralyzed. “I didn’t ever think I’d be able to come,” he said of the concert. “But I came to Phoenix for rehab and got blessed with the tour in Phoenix,”  Bro. Hashim continued.

“The doctor told me I would be paralyzed forever,” he said. “But Allah (God) said, ‘I’m your doctor.’ And now I’m here.” Brother Hashim is an artist himself, and his relationship with music has been central to his recovery. “Second to Allah, music has been my healing agent,” he said. 

Student National Secretary and Shura Executive Council Member Sa’ad Alim Muhammad has watched the performers develop as the tour has traveled. “What we’re seeing and discovering is that the young performers are becoming so much more confident and comfortable being on stage and presenting their craft.”

They have traveled to at least eight major cities around the country. At tender ages, they are learning that their gifts can carry them beyond their hometowns and introduce them to people and places throughout the country.

The tour stop in Phoenix was special to vocalist, Sis. Khadijah Muhammad. She had never visited Phoenix. “It’s been amazing, actually,” she said. “Just seeing the mountains was beautiful,” she said. “The believers have been beautiful.”

She also had an opportunity to see the Phoenix home of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad. 

Brother Sa’ad also spoke about Phoenix’s significance within the Nation of Islam. He pointed to its history and its connection to the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, describing Phoenix and Chicago as distinctive places where he established residences and could find comfort and quiet of mind. “You all are special in Phoenix.”

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BOSTON—Community members, faith leaders, elected officials, family and friends gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of Minister Don Muhammad and his wife, Sister Shirley Muhammad.

Under sun-filled skies, the city of Boston posthumously dedicated a square in honor of Minister Don and Sister Shirley Muhammad, pioneers of the Nation of Islam. Minister Don returned to Allah (God) in 2024 and Sister Shirley in 2021. 

A dynamic power couple and followers and laborers of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad and the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, Minister Don and Sister Shirley were noted servants of the Nation of Islam in the greater Boston community for over six decades. 

Efforts to name the square, located in front of Muhammad Mosque No. 11 at the crossroad of Blue Hill Avenue and Washington Street, were initiated by Boston Communities of Color, a group of professionals and practitioners from cross-sector industries and community-based leaders.

The Sept. 12 program, emceed by longtime television host and producer Karen Holmes Ward, welcomed several Boston-based luminaries to the stage to deliver citations and comments. There was also a military drill exhibition delivered by the Fruit of Islam (F.O.I., the men of the Nation of Islam) of Mosque No. 11.

Mayor Michelle Wu warmly prefaced her remarks with the Muslim greeting of “As-Salaam Alaikum! (Peace be unto you)” and heralded the legacy of Minister Don and Sister Shirley Muhammad.

Remarks were also offered by Bishop John M. Borders, III of Morningstar Baptist Church; Sister Yvette Muhammad, daughter of Min. Don and Sis. Shirley; retired Boston Police Detective Larry Ellison; and Student Minister Randy Muhammad of Mosque No. 11.  U.S. Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.);

Boston City Councilor Reverend Miniard Culpepper; State Senator Liz Miranda; City Councilor Brian Worrell; Boston City Councilor Ruthzee Louijeune; and State Senator Christopher Worrell also delivered citations and remarks.

A common theme among those who spoke was that, while acknowledging Minister Don being on the front line and always taking the vanguard position, it was always a team effort, with Sister Shirley by his side or in support. 

D.A. Kevin Harden stated, “This is a historic day. The whole time I’m standing here I’m looking at the billboard behind me saying ‘You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free.’

And the truth is that Minister Don Muhammad and Shirley Muhammad built this area, built this lot and it is so fitting and appropriate that we named it after them. It’s a wonderful thing God bless you all, God bless our communities.”

Alfreda Harris concurred, “As a longtime friend of the great Minister Louis Farrakhan, Brother Don Muhammad has been involved in this community as long as I can remember. Well deserved for him and Sister Shirley Muhammad. Two folks we can always be proud of and two folks the community dearly loved and appreciated. This is a great day for Roxbury.”  

Imam Taalib Mahdee stated, “It’s an honor to be here at the naming ceremony for Don and his wife Shirley. It’s a blessed day, but not only that, I think it’s historical like many of these people have said.

This couple will be remembered not only now but in the future and I think that’s important to have role models that people can go back to and see their worth and be inspired for the betterment of the community.” 

Minister Don’s and Sister Shirley’s eldest daughter, Sister Yvette, shared quotes that her parents often echoed. Her father often said, “Talk a little, work a lot” and “Stay the course!”

Her mother often quoted Holy Qur’an 61:14 which says in part, “Who are my helpers in the cause of Allah?” and before she became nonverbal, she would say, “You cannot always win, but you can always try.”

Among the community in the audience to witness, pay tribute, and lend their support to the naming ceremony were a host of Minister Don’s and Sister Shirley’s children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; the former Boston Mayor and U.S. Ambassador, Raymond Flynn, and his wife, Cathy, along with their son, City Councilor Ed Flynn;

Imam Taalib Mahdee of Masjid Al Quran; Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden; Dr. Keith Motley, Chancellor Emeritus of UMass University; Alfreda Harris, a longtime community member, and Reverend Eugene Rivers, to name a few.

Attorney Joseph Feaster also attended the ceremony. “I’m here because of my deep regard and respect for Minister Don and his wife for all the times I worked with him on issues in the city of Boston over the years. 

He was here for involvement with the Massachusetts Miracle that took place. He has protected people here in Grove Hall and the city of Boston.  It is an honor to see that this dedication is held in his honor because it is due and right for that to occur,” he said.

“This is a day that Roxbury, Dorchester needed to see because of the seeds that were sewn by Minister Don Muhammad. …  So, because of the greatness he brought to this community, it’s still here. 

We continue to lift up his legacy for the great thing that he did not just in Roxbury, Grove Hall, but all over the state of Massachusetts. Thank God for Minister Don for all of the lives that he touched and saved,” said  Councilman Rev. Culpepper of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church.

Minister Randy Muhammad of Muhammad Mosque No. 11 thanked the mayor and the city of Boston for recognizing the tremendous contributions of Minister Don and Sister Shirley Muhammad. He shared a personal reflection on first visiting the mosque as a teenager, hearing the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, and a week later hearing Minister Don. 

As a result, he joined the Nation of Islam. Minister Randy shared how Minister Don became a father figure to him, demonstrating what a positive Black man could be: a good husband, a good father, a servant of the people, and a great leader. 

“May we never forget the memory of Minister Don and Sister Shirley Muhammad.  May we never forget their work, their sacrifice, and their service to this community. May Minister Don and Sister Shirley Muhammad Square stand as a lasting reminder of two people who dedicated their lives to help build, strengthen, and uplift this community,” he said.

The program closed with Minister Don and Sister Shirley’s daughter, Sister Cheryl Straughter, who thanked the speakers, city officials, and all involved with bringing the name of the square to fruition. She encouraged those in attendance to be unafraid and become engaged in the community.

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The F.O.I. strive to be obedient, humble servants in their communities and work to help make their communities safe and decent places to live. The brothers are committed and dedicated to being of service to and for our people. We thank the F.O.I. for their continued hard work and dedication.

The post Commitment, dedication and service appeared first on Final Call News.

The Black Wall Street Times

OKLAHOMA CITY—The Oklahoma City Council voted 5–3 to renew a $270,000 contract with Flock Safety, keeping 90 automated license plate-reading cameras operating across the city.

Mayor David Holt and Councilmembers Katrina Avers, Bradley Carter, Todd Stone and Matthew Hinkle supported the renewal. Councilmembers James Cooper, JoBeth Hamon and Camal Pennington voted against it. Councilmember Mark Stonecipher was absent.

The one-year agreement runs through June 30, 2027, according to contemporaneous reporting on the Aug. 18 vote.

The council approved the contract after months of opposition from residents and privacy advocates. Critics warned that the cameras collect information about drivers who are not suspected of crimes.

Nearly 30 residents and activists reportedly addressed the council before the vote. None spoke in support of renewing the contract.

The Oklahoma City Police Department says the cameras help officers find stolen vehicles, investigate crimes and locate missing people. However, two separate cases involving police misuse have intensified concerns about oversight.

Oklahoma City adds limits to Flock camera use

Police Chief Ron Bacy announced several changes intended to limit how officers use and share information collected by the cameras.

The department plans to reduce its standard data-retention period from 30 days to seven. Police may preserve information longer when they consider it evidence in an investigation.

The department also plans to leave Flock’s nationwide database and limit information sharing to approved agencies. Searches must include a stated reason and will be logged under individual users.

The proposed rules also prohibit searches related to immigration enforcement or reproductive health. The ACLU of Oklahoma called the restrictions a step forward but warned that rules alone cannot prevent misuse.

“We applaud the council for hearing the concerns of many residents and including new guardrails to prevent inappropriate access and use; to limit nationwide sharing of data; and to reduce the retention period to seven days,” ACLU of Oklahoma Executive Director Tamya Cox-Touré said in a statement.

“These are good first steps but still must be overseen,” she continued. “This technology is easily abused.”

Police disclosed two Flock misuse cases

During the Aug. 18 meeting, Bacy disclosed two separate cases involving Oklahoma City police officers’ use of Flock technology.

In one case, an internal audit found that a police sergeant accessed the system for personal reasons between December 2024 and April 2025.

Several outlets identified the officer as Sgt. Keenan Heskett. The department issued him a Class 3 reprimand, suspended him for three days without pay and placed him on disciplinary probation for one year.

In the second case, the department investigated a complaint alleging that an officer’s Flock use infringed upon someone’s rights. Police said the investigation found sufficient evidence of misconduct and that the officer received “corrective action.”

The department has not identified that officer or disclosed the nature of the corrective action, according to KOKH reporting.

The two cases raise questions about whether search logs and internal audits can deter improper access or merely identify it after the fact. It also remains unclear whether the department will publicly report future violations.

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