Black August does not arrive with fireworks or parades of summer holidays. It arrives with hunger.

 Before sunrise on August 1, in kitchens across Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Oakland, and inside prison cells where the practice can cost a person months in solitary confinement, people set aside food, TV screens, and distraction. They reflect. There is no greeting of “Happy Black August.”

“This is a commemoration, not a celebration,” Melina Abdullah reminded listeners on Los Angeles based KBLA Talk Radio 1580 as the month began. “This month, we fast, study, train, and fight.”

Forty‑seven years into a tradition most Blacks have never heard of, Black August remains one of the most disciplined, politically grounded, and deliberately suppressed commemorations in Black history. It is a month rooted in sacrifice, born behind prison walls, carried forward by organizers who refuse to let the memory of fallen freedom fighters be erased.

Born behind jail/prison walls

To understand Black August, one must begin with a blatant injustice.

“Black August began inside the California prison system, in response to the murderous repression faced by Black revolutionary prisoners,” said Attorney James Simmons of Black August Los Angeles on the August 1, radio show.

He pointed to three names—W.L. Nolan, Alvin Miller, and Cleveland Edwards—men killed by prison guards on January 13, 1970. After an altercation with White inmates, guards opened fired, but only on the Black prisoners.

In the aftermath, three incarcerated men—including George Jackson—were charged with retaliating against a guard. Jackson would become one of the most influential revolutionary writers of the 20th century. His books “Soledad Brother” and “Blood in My Eye” challenged the myth of American exceptionalism and urged Black people to organize, study, and resist.

Mr. Jackson never lived to see the movement his writings inspired. On August 21, 1971, he was killed by San Quentin prison guards. The year before, his 17‑year‑old brother Jonathan Jackson was killed during a courthouse action aimed at freeing the Soledad Brothers.

“These assassinations—and the movement that refused to let their deaths go unmarked—gave rise to Black August,” Atty. Simmons said.

But the roots run deeper. Kalanji Changa of Black Power Media on the same show notes that August 1 itself marks the anniversary of the death of Khatari Gaulden, a leader of the Black Prison Movement who died due to deliberate medical neglect at San Quentin.

“We use the word ‘assassination’ deliberately,” Mr. Changa said. “His death was state‑sponsored. Black August was first commemorated one year after his death.”

Inside those cells, resistance was not metaphorical. It was organized, intentional, and dangerous to those who sought to oppress and suppress the actions and activities of brothers behind bars.

“George Jackson ran political education classes inside the library. He trained comrades in martial arts,” Mr. Changa explained. “The prison movement was real, organized, and deliberate.”

Pillars of resistance, discipline

Black August rests on four pillars—disciplines rather than slogans. Dr. Akinyelé Umoja, another panelist who encountered the tradition in Oakland in the late 1970s, breaks them down:

Fast. Inspired by the Islamic Holy Month Ramadan, the founders fasted from sunup to sundown—not just from food, but from harmful influences and distractions. Some refused to speak English during the day, using Kiswahili instead. Today, a social media fast counts.

Study. The reading list begins with “Blood in My Eye,” finished by Jackson days before his death. Organizers urge people to buy from Black‑owned bookstores.

Train. Physical conditioning—martial arts, running, strength training. “A strong mind requires a strong body,” Mr. Umoja said.

Fight. Engage in activism. Support incarcerated comrades. Write letters. Back campaigns. Put money on their books.

Within the month sit four “Flea Days”—full 24‑hour fasts honoring the fallen:

August 1 — Khatari Gaulden

August 7 — Jonathan Jackson, William Christmas, James McClain

August 13 — W.L. Nolan, Cleveland Edwards, Alvin Miller

August 21 — George Jackson

“These four days are our holy days,” Mr. Changa said.

A living tradition— and a suppressed one

What began in California spread across the country—Los Angeles, Atlanta, Philadelphia—and even internationally. In Cuba, medical students once held Black August commemorations with comrades of Assata Shakur.

But inside U.S. prisons, the tradition carries a steep price. “Since 2014, up to 300 incarcerated brothers and sisters have been placed in solitary confinement simply for practicing Black August,” Mr. Changa alleges. “The state classifies it as gang activity.”

Ms. Abdullah highlighted one name: Jay Burton, who co‑founded Black Lives Matter chapters inside California prisons. He entered at 16. He is now 53—and currently in solitary confinement. “Not because of what he did when he first entered,” Ms. Abdullah said, “but because of the political organizing work he continues to do.”

Why most people have never heard of it

The obscurity of Black August is not accidental.

“Anything that exposes 400‑plus years of crimes against humanity—particularly against Black people—will never be something those in power want widely known,” said Empress Phile Chionesu, founder of the 1997 Million Woman March, during an interview with The Final Call. She noted that Black media, once a conduit for this history, “has largely lost that capacity.”

Others point to distraction. “People are distracted by propaganda instead of engaging with real issues,” Bigga Dre, a Philadelphia organizer, told The Final Call. “Entertainment makes people feel good. Conviction demands action. People don’t want that responsibility.”

He traced the erasure to one institution: the prison industrial complex. “Powerful interests are capitalizing off incarceration,” he said. “That’s why Black August gets swept under the rug.”

For Mike Africa of the MOVE organization, the relevance of Black August depends on purpose. “If it genuinely helps people and drives meaningful change, it remains essential,” he said during a Final Call interview. Honoring political prisoners, he said, must translate into structural change—starting with the family.

Supreme Dow, curator of the Black Writers Museum, told The Final Call about the importance of intergenerational dialogue where younger generations can pass on information about the significance of Black August. He calls for intergenerational engagement—elders in dialogue with young people.

Ms. Chionesu reminds young people of their legacy: the first Black student union at California State, the sit‑ins, Freedom Rides, Ella Baker, Fannie Lou Hamer, Stokely Carmichael, H. Rap Brown. “Those were students. Young people. That legacy belongs to them,” she said.

The importance of remembering

Black August is not abstract. It shows up in living rooms, libraries, and community centers.

In Los Angeles, Mr. Simmons outlined a month of programming: an opening event at the Radical Hood Library; Pan‑African Women’s Day; a Black Panther Party breakfast; a group reading of “Blood in My Eye” and weekly physical training and study sessions.

In Philadelphia, Bigga Dre is organizing a strategic planning session on environmental justice, targeting the country’s largest incinerator in Chester, where three‑fourths of Philadelphia’s trash is burned. “This is environmental racism,” he said.

Ms. Chionesu’s work includes “Black Poli Sci 101” sessions with Jalil Muntaqim, who spent nearly 50 years incarcerated after joining the Black Panther Party at 16. Her organization is also investigating toxic mold in a women’s prison.

And on August 15, the October Gallery will host a meditation seminar in commemoration of Black August.

Organizers of these various commemorations return to a single idea: a people cut off from their history can be stripped of their future.

“Marcus Garvey said it best,” Bigga Dre noted. “A people without knowledge of their past is like a tree without roots.” Supreme Dow frames the stakes clearly: “It has always been illegal for us to fight for our freedom.

The struggle demands more than performance. It demands study, action, and consistency.” Ms. Abdullah offers the simplest invitation: “None of us were born knowing this. Start where you are,” she said.

“Forty‑seven years on, the men who died inside California’s prisons are still being remembered by people the state tried to silence—and by a movement that refuses to be forgotten,” Ms. Abdullah said.

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Brother John returned to Allah (God) July 26, 2026, at the age of 98. At his service, family, friends, and admirers gathered to honor a man widely regarded as a brilliant mind and helper of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad.

Born November 3, 1927, in Avera, Georgia, and raised in Philadelphia, Bro. John’s early life hinted at an extraordinary trajectory ahead. His schoolmates included future luminaries such as the Reverend Leon Sullivan and Robert N.C. Nix, who would become the first Black Supreme Court Justice in Pennsylvania’s history.

Brother John excelled academically, graduating from Bryant College in just two years with a major in accounting and economics before becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA)—an achievement rare for Blacks of his era.

But Bro. John’s destiny would not be confined to boardrooms or accounting firms. In 1954, he encountered the Teachings of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad through Minister Jeremiah Shabazz.

Soon after, Minister Malcolm X brought him to New York to assist in the secretarial department of Temple No. 7 (as it was known at that time). His sharp intellect, professionalism, and administrative discipline quickly drew the attention of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad.

In 1960, Bro. John was appointed National Secretary of the Nation of Islam, a position he held for a decade. Those who worked with him say his impact was profound and far-reaching.

“He should be remembered as a top-notch follower of Elijah Muhammad,” said Rafiq Kalimidin, to The Final Call, a former Temple No. 12 secretary. “He handled all the books. He made a great contribution to … the Nation of Islam. He was appointed by Elijah Muhammad himself.”

Brother John’s professionalism stood out in an era when few Black people had access to higher education or corporate training. “He was a voracious reader with a very astute mind,” said Mohammad Shah, a family friend. Mr. Shah added that Bro. John brought “a very professional approach to administration.”

His administrative reach extended far beyond the walls of the Chicago headquarters. Muhammad Ikhlas, Mr. Ali’s nephew by marriage, recalled how respected he was among pioneers of the Nation of Islam.

Brother John’s younger brother, Michael Simmons, also described him as “a brilliant mind.”

Brother John’s intellectual appetite was legendary. “He read 10 newspapers a day,” Mr. Simmons said. “He was one of the most well-informed people you’d ever want to meet. He could talk to you about any subject. You always came away knowing more than you started out with.”

Beyond his public accomplishments, Brother John was remembered as a devoted family man. “John was a family man. He loved family,” said Rudolph Ali. “With all respect and love for my brother, I loved him for that.”

His niece, Aishah Shahidah Simmons, called him “a meticulous and incredible organizer, strategist, and visionary.” She recalled his commitment to attending every graduation celebration, no matter how busy his schedule.

His son, Jon D. Ali, said his father’s dedication to both family and the Nation defined his life. “He loved his daughters. He loved the children. All his grandchildren. He was a very happy man.”

He added that his father’s guiding principle was simple: “Dad, what did you do?” he once asked his father. “He said, ‘What the Messenger told me to do. I followed instructions.’”

Bro. John attributed his longevity to the Teachings of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad, and those closest to him say nothing mattered more to him than being a dedicated follower of the Messenger. “The thing most important to him was that he had been a dedicated follower of Elijah Muhammad,” said Mr. Simmons.

Brother John Ali was preceded in death by his parents, John and Viola Simmons, his son Wallace, and his siblings Willie, Nathaniel, and Reginald. He is survived by his youngest brother, Michael. Mr. Ali leaves behind a devoted family, including his children Jon, Marie, Sultan, and Clara, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

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But the voice—the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, speaking about Black separation with a clarity she had never encountered—stopped her cold. She went to the mosque that Sunday in Plainfield, N.J. She never looked back.

Today, Sister Dr. Monique Swift Muhammad is a member of the Nation of Islam as a proud M.G.T. and G.C.C. (Muslim Girls Training and General Civilization Class, the women of the N.O.I.). She is also the president of the Association of Black Psychologists (ABPsi), a clinician and a community builder.

She is a Muslim woman who prays before every session with clients, quotes and references Minister Farrakhan in her clinical work, and believes that Black psychological liberation and spiritual elevation are the same struggle.

“If I had not found the Nation of Islam,” she says plainly, “I probably would have quit by now.” She is not being dramatic. She means it.

Nation and Black first

Sister Dr. Monique Muhammad grew up asking questions no one around her was equipped to answer. When she arrived at Rutgers University and majored in Africana Studies, she found the intellectual framework. When she heard Minister Farrakhan, she found the spiritual one.

“Africana Studies was the backdrop,” she told The Final Call. “I didn’t understand who I was as a Black person—our plight, our history. Majoring in Africana Studies deepened that context significantly.”

From Rutgers, she moved to NYU for a master’s in counseling, shifting from the macro lens of social conditions to the intimate terrain of personal identity, which she said helped her understand herself and the range of experiences we have as Black people.

Her path eventually led her to ABPsi, where she found a professional home aligned with her deepest commitments. “Black first,” she said plainly. “That’s where I’ve been. And that’s what this organization is.”

When she went to the Sunday meeting at the Plainfield, New Jersey mosque, after seeing and hearing Minister Farrakhan on tape, legendary Student Minister Abdul Karim Muhammad was at the podium.

He was talking about building a Black army. Sister Dr. Monique—raised on Public Enemy, shaped by righteous militancy, and newly inspired by Africana Studies—thought she was signing up for one kind of fight. Allah (God) had something else in mind.

“What I thought would make me a killer for our people turned me into a healer,” she said.

When asked who sharpened her into the psychologist she is today, Sister Dr. Monique did not hesitate. “First and foremost, the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad,” she said. “He helps us see who we are as human beings—spiritually, socially, personally. There’s nothing he hasn’t touched.” Minister Farrakhan comes next, she said.

She also said, Student Min. Dr. Ava Muhammad (may Allah be pleased), an attorney and scholar, showed her that spiritual conviction and professional excellence were not in conflict.

Professionally, she leans heavily on Dr. Wade Nobles, a founder of ABPsi and who she calls, one of the most influential thinkers in African-centered psychology, calling him a “prolific writer,” and stating that “his work grounds me.”

According to the organization’s website, the Association of Black Psychologists was founded in San Francisco in 1968 by several Black Psychologists from across the country who united to actively address the serious problems facing Black psychologists and the larger Black community.

“Guided by the principle of self-determination, these psychologists set about building an institution through which they could address the long-neglected needs of Black professionals,” notes abpsi.site-ym.com.

Her term as president of ABPsi is 2025-2027. Her presidency comes at a moment she describes as unprecedented. “It feels like a time we’ve never seen before,” she said. “I don’t think it’s an accident that I am where I am.”

She references Minister Farrakhan’s warning that it takes more emotional fortitude to function today than in years past. The pressures are immense, particularly for Black people.

Her overarching mission is clear: sovereignty. “All roads point to our sovereignty as an organization,” she said, referring to ABPsi. “We don’t have the luxury anymore to think of ourselves in the context of White America. We must think of ourselves as sovereign human beings.”

Sister Dr. Monique’s clinical framework for racial trauma carries the same precision as her community work. She does not use abstractions. She uses the example of the damage done by a bullet. “The bullet enters,” she explains.

“That is the initial wound—slavery, discrimination, being followed in a store, not getting the job. But a bullet ricochets. It pierces the spleen, the heart, the lungs. That is the internalization—the (feelings of) worthlessness, the self-doubt, the sense of being less than.”

And then there is the historical layer. “The genetic inheritance of trauma, passed from generation to generation. Epigenetics tells us this. You are born already carrying a wound you never personally received,” she said.

Three levels. One injury. Most psychology only treats the surface. “You cannot heal what you refuse to name,” she says. “And most of psychology has refused to name this,” she said.

The most misunderstood truth about Black suffering, she argues, is not the trauma itself. It is how deep it goes.

“The core of who we are is fractured,” she said. “We’re functioning—educated, working, buying homes—but not functioning knowing who we are.”

Sister Dr. Monique is direct about what clinical training got wrong. “They train you to be neutral,” she says. “Don’t bring yourself into the room. But there is no such thing as neutral. I am who I am.”

She brings her full self—her faith, her Muslim garment, her spiritual discernment—into every session. “But I don’t heal anybody. It is only by the Grace of Allah (God), coming through me (counseling and therapy), that healing happens.”

The Nation of Islam’s emphasis on discipline is something she carries directly into her clinical work. The Nation taught her to find beauty in hardship, to see the reward in struggle. That is not common language in mainstream therapy.

“The Nation taught me to subordinate myself to something bigger than me,” she says. “That is how I lead. That is how I heal. Not for recognition. Not for the prize. For the mission.”

Misunderstandings about Black healing

“We think healing is in accomplishments,” she said. “A Black president. Marching. Voting. Protesting. Legal victories. But that’s not what heals us.”

True healing, she insists, is spiritual. “Connecting with the spirit of who we truly are—that’s the missing piece. We’ve tried everything else. Spirit is what we keep skipping.”

The upcoming 57th Annual ABPsi Convention theme, scheduled for July 29 through August 1 at Morgan State University, an HBCU in Baltimore, reflects this conviction. This year’s theme, “The Illumination: Freeing the African Spirit,” was chosen by Sister Dr. Monique.

Founded September 2, 1968, after more than 200 Black psychologists staged a walkout from the American Psychological Association’s annual meeting in San Francisco, ABPsi has always been an act of organized refusal. It has never answered to the APA. It has never pretended that Black psychology is just mainstream psychology practiced on Black bodies.

Sister Dr. Monique is pushing ABPsi members to move from comfort to commitment—from relying on outside funding to building from within. She has chosen a presidential Adinkra symbol that captures her entire philosophy: Funtunfunefu Denkyemfunefu—two crocodiles conjoined at the stomach, fighting over food they already share.

“They fight because of ego,” she says. “But everything they consume feeds the same stomach. When we fight each other, we are only destroying ourselves,” she added.

“Our healing is in our spiritual elevation,” explains Sis. Dr. Monique. “Everything in the physical—all the marching, all the voting, all the lawsuits—none of it is enough without reconnecting with the spirit of who we truly are.”

Dr. Monique Swift Muhammad has built her life—and now her presidency—on that truth.

“We are the solution,” she says. “We always have been. We just need to remember.”

For more information, visit ABPsi.org.

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For Black Philadelphians, who already face profound economic hurdles, the statewide gambling boom is not mere entertainment. It is the construction of a digital plantation economy in which corporations harvest the hopes, habits, and vulnerabilities of the people for profit. 

In 2024 alone, internet gaming and sports wagering revenues in Pennsylvania surged past a staggering $6 billion. Penn State University’s 2024 Interactive Gaming Assessment confirms that one in five adults in the Commonwealth now gamble online.

As the industry grows, the fallout is accelerating faster than the systems meant to contain it. Today, nearly half of all calls to the 1-800-GAMBLER hotline involve online gambling. 

According to Nielsen Ad Intel, the Philadelphia region has outpaced New York and Las Vegas as the number one online gambling advertising market in the United States. Between January and September 2024, gambling companies spent over $37 million saturating the region with ads.

These promotions flood billboards, bus shelters, social media feeds, and streaming platforms in Black neighborhoods already burdened with predatory marketing. 

This modern digital crisis mirrors the stark warnings delivered decades ago by the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad. In His seminal book, “Message to the Blackman in America,” in the chapter titled, “On Sport and Play,”

The Eternal Leader of the Nation of Islam offered a comprehensive critique of American entertainment, warning that gambling and systemic vices were engineered to exploit the poor and distract from spiritual awakening. He taught about the entrapment of “games of chance.”

“Great sums of money are spent in sport and play, in games of chance and gambling, in the operation of sporting houses. Millions are spent on horse racing and numbers rackets and are a disgraceful publicity of indecent sport,” the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad wrote.

Community advocates in Philadelphia are also raising the alarm. Supported by funding from the Department of Behavioral Health, the Black Women’s Health Alliance is rolling out a comprehensive awareness and prevention campaign featuring billboards, social media outreach, and educational materials.

The initiative aims to address the severe financial toll problem gambling takes on families, highlighting the growing impact of casino access on isolated seniors and the rapid rise of sports betting among youth. 

“We aren’t here to judge, but we want our community to pause and set firm guardrails before they play,” said Brenda Dunston, head of the Black Women’s Health Alliance, to The Final Call. “The industry invests heavily in keeping you at the games, so you have to know your limits … and never let gambling control your life or your ability to pay for essentials.” 

Ms. Dunston also noted that the statistics are particularly alarming for so-called “minority” women. Recent data shows that 35% of minority ethnic females experience high levels of gambling harm, compared to just 12% of the overall female gambling population. 

“Many are single parents desperately trying to provide for their families, and they view gambling as a potential way out,” Ms. Dunston explained. “Unfortunately, casinos capitalize on this vulnerability.” 

The data reveals a highly dangerous pattern. Mixed-mode gamblers—those who play both online and in person—face the highest risk of addiction. Furthermore, 20% of online gamblers engage in illegal or unregulated sites, where losses are unrecoverable and protections do not exist. 

An analysis of  helpline logs shows a rising number of callers reporting drained bank accounts, maxed-out credit cards, the inability to pay utilities, and emotional breakdowns. When a working-class Black family loses $500, it is not just a setback; it is the rent, the groceries, and the school uniforms. 

Local faith leaders recognize this targeted exploitation as a direct threat to the Black family. Bishop J. Louis Felton, president of the Black Clergy in Philadelphia and senior pastor at Mount Airy Church of God in Christ, stressed during a telephone interview with The Final Call that the industry preys on wishful thinking.

“Theologically, our doctrinal viewpoint is that we believe in going for a sure thing, and gambling simply isn’t it,” Bishop Felton said. “It might start out small and harmless—like a teddy bear—but it quickly grows into a chimpanzee, then a gorilla, and eventually Godzilla or King Kong.

Nobody starts gambling expecting to lose their home, family, marriage, or relationships. But it is so addictive that you can’t just quit when you want to.” 

Bishop Felton warned against the community falling for the illusion of easy money. “They target us directly, and we cannot be gullible enough to let people make billions of dollars off our misery. That is exactly how the rich keep getting richer while the poor keep getting poorer.” 

The Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad warned of the repercussions and fallout from gambling.

“Hundreds of millions of dollars change hands for the benefit of a few to the hurt of millions of poor people in the bread lines, and suffering from the lack of good education, with their last few pennies they help the already helped to try winning with these gambling ‘scientists’

Who have prepared a game of chance that the poor suckers have only one chance out of nine hundred to win. Therefore, the world of sports is causing tremendous evils,” He wrote in His monumental book, “Message to the Blackman in America,” in the chapter, “On Sport and Play.”

“Think over the destruction of homes and families, the disgrace, the shame, the filling up of jails—state and federal—with victims of sports and play, the loss of friendship, the loss of beautiful wives and husbands, the loss of sons and daughters to these penal institutions. From dope, knives and guns, this evil is practiced under Christianity,” the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad continued.

Today, these “gambling scientists” use sophisticated algorithms and targeted ads to ensure users keep spinning. For Black men, the trap is laid with sports betting ads featuring hip-hop imagery. For Black women, the lure is casino-style mobile games. For Black youth, betting is normalized by influencers. 

If left unchecked, the digital casino will continue to expand, draining billions from the very people already fighting for economic survival. 

“We must confront this crisis with the urgency it demands. Protecting our wealth, our families, and our future requires us to recognize this digital casino for exactly what it is—a predatory economic trap designed to keep our communities impoverished.

True power and self-determination come from building up our own steadfast lifestyles through education, faith, and hard work, rather than enriching the very corporations that profit from our pain,” Bishop Shelton said.

The post The digital plantation: How online gambling is engineered to exploit Black communities  appeared first on Final Call News.

The Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad, Eternal Leader of the Nation of Islam, taught on the protection and elevation of the Black woman. The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, His National Representative teaches the same including that the woman is the Second-Self of Allah (God).

“… God says from that single being He created its mate of the same essence. So, the woman is created from the same essence that man was created from; and the essence that man was created from is God, so the essence that the woman was created from is God too,”

Minister Farrakhan stated in a message he delivered during a nationwide women-only meeting broadcast live from Mosque Maryam in Chicago, Illinois, on April 18, 2015, titled, “Save Our Girls: A Nation Can Rise No Higher Than Its Woman.”

Minister Farrakhan continued, stating, “The Honorable Elijah Muhammad taught us that God is ‘Self-Created.’ He doesn’t have a ‘mommy’ or ‘daddy.’ He created Himself. Wow! So, if He is ‘Self- Created’: He looked within Himself and found you, and out of Himself He created wo(mb)-man. How great are you to be The Second Self of God?”

The value of women and how they are portrayed, viewed, and treated, particularly Black women, has eroded over the years in the United States.

However, despite the profound challenges facing Black women, their resilience emerges—undiminished and inspiring.

The Final Call interviewed Black men from various backgrounds, who shared their admiration and love for Black women.  

Dr. Anthony Monterio, a scholar and Philadelphia community leader, speaks with reverence: “When I look back, the women who had the greatest influence on me, outside of my mother and family, were figures in the Civil Rights Movement.

The one who impacted me the most when I was barely out of my teens was Civil Rights pioneer Diane Nash. Her strength and fearlessness were incredible.”

Dr. Monterio goes further, challenging the world’s limited perception regarding the value of sisters. “The women I admire crystallized within themselves a revolutionary consciousness.”

This “fearlessness”—described time and again—is not only an individual attribute, but a communal inheritance. As Dr. Monterio reflects on what Black women taught him, he centers on the lesson of self-belief: “My mother taught me confidence.

She instilled in me that no matter what the world may think of you or say about you, you must believe in yourself. She believed in me, and that helped me believe in myself.

For a Black man navigating a White male supremacist society, that confidence is so important. If that mother connection is right, you can walk through the worst storm and still hold your head up high.”

To celebrate Black women is to recognize their place at the forefront of justice and liberation. “I don’t just think about Black women; I think about Black women in the struggle,” Dr. Monterio told The Final Call, “What moves me is their fearlessness—the fact that when they enter the struggle, they’re prepared to give up their lives.

Resilience and power

The wellspring of Black women’s strength runs deep, touching the spiritual and the divine. NemRa Neteru,  a young artist whose work hangs in the legendary October Gallery Museum, another voice in the Philadelphia community, beautifully describes this source of strength in Black women.

“I think the reason why they continue so strong is something divine. They have sisterhood, for one, but they’re also connected to divine sources. You can feel it. You’ve seen it throughout history.” 

For NemRa, the lesson from Black women is not merely survival, but a way of being.  This resilience is a throughline that passes from one generation to the next, evolving as it is expressed through daily acts of brilliance and compassion, he explained.

NemRa admires “their tenacity to continue to excel no matter what the world gives them. They transmit it into something beautiful, something powerful.” Their impact is not limited to individual transformation — Black women shape everyone around them. “I think they shape all our growth. They help us continually evolve.

There’s always a next level—that’s what their energy represents. There’s always something more. Our job is to match that, to continue to evolve, and not get complacent. That’s what I love about our sisters.”

Yet, what Black women need is not another command to be strong, but a promise of real support. NemRa puts it plainly: “Security. Protection. Assurance that we’ll stand by them throughout everything that happens. And I would say love, to be honest. They aren’t loved properly as they should be,” he told The Final Call.

Across the decades, Black women have quietly and powerfully shaped families, institutions, and cultural movements.

Reverend Colonius Avent, the progressive Pastor of Rising Star Baptist Church located in Emporia, Virginia, sees this every day in both his home and his ministry. “Black women have come a long way. They have a great influence, especially in the community. They assist and help so many people.

In my church, the support from Black women is overwhelming. They are truly the backbone.” He credits his wife, not just as his partner in ministry, but as his teacher in humanity: “Helping people. I didn’t do a lot of that before, but because of her influence, I do now. She’s taught me the importance of reaching out and making a difference.”

Pastor Avent stressed that the world undervalues just how transformative Black women are. “Their impact, Black women do so much and have a great influence. They are sympathetic and assist people in ways I’ve learned from.

Their contributions are often overlooked, but they are vital.” This sentiment is echoed in his message to Black women: “Keep on doing what you’re doing. You are appreciated for how well you do and how you influence Black men to bring out the best in them.”

Nation of Islam Student Delaware Valley Regional Minister Rodney Muhammad of Mosque No. 12 in Philadelphia carries the legacy of driven, brilliant Black women within him. “My mother … was the first Black woman in the 1950s to model for Ford Motor Company.

Later, she worked hard as a secretary, but she went back to school to get her bachelor’s degree because she had me early on. Then she went on to get her master’s and doctorate. She moved herself up. … That drive and resilience shaped me,” he said.

For Student Min. Rodney Muhammad, the full strength of Black women lies in their indomitable spirit in the face of cruelty. “You have to look at the resilience of Black women. During slavery, the Black man was the target, but the Black woman endured unimaginable cruelty.

Despite that, she held families together and ensured survival.” This spiritual and intellectual resourcefulness has been underestimated and underappreciated for far too long. “Black women have an uncanny ability to take even the smallest idea from a Black man and help it grow into something greater.”

His message is clear: “Black women have always been the backbone of our communities, but they deserve men who are driven and determined to build something greater. Together, we can achieve self-determination and create a future where we rely on ourselves, not others, for our success.”

Throughout its over 90-year history in America, women in the Nation of Islam have been critical in its establishment and growth. Mother Clara Muhammad, wife of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad, Mother Khadijah Farrakhan, wife of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan,  and countless others, have demonstrated and displayed intelligence, leadership and gifts to the Nation of Islam and the world.

Bishop Frank M. Reid III a longtime AME pastor from Baltimore, Maryland, puts it plainly and powerfully: “The Black woman is the original woman,” he said, explaining that all other races and ethnic groups come from her. 

For Bishop Reid, there is an obvious line from the divine to the familial. “Every Black woman is a queen, but she’s been miseducated. … But the real power comes from God who made the woman, because as the woman goes, so goes the nation. So goes the family, so goes our people.”

He also said that this power is not simply theoretical, but part of everyday reality. “My mother taught me that readers are leaders. My mother taught me the importance of education. She wasn’t working when my mother and father separated, but she got a job and raised four children.

She didn’t graduate from high school, but all four of her children graduated from college and have professional degrees.” The lessons that Black women pass down—education, resilience, faith, and leadership—shape entire communities for generations, he explained.

Respect and protect   

As Dr. Monterio eloquently puts it: “The greatest love of all is the love for your people and the love for the freedom of your people. If you love your people and you love freedom, other things more easily fall into place.”

Sisters need security, protection, appreciation, and love. They need recognition of their intellectual, spiritual, and emotional gifts. They need to be supported, defended, and uplifted—not just in words, but in action.

As NemRa reminds us: “That I love them and I care for them. And that I’ll continue to grow to be the best man and brother I can be for them and our community.”

The Divine Guidance and Teaching of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad, as taught by the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, is clear.

The Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad taught that the Black woman must be respected and protected and that “a nation can rise no higher than its woman.”

Final Call staff contributed to this report.

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The retired educators, whose passion for Black/African history and literature has left an indelible mark on the institution, were celebrated with the dedication of the newly named Theodore and Elsie Erwin Archives.

The event, held in early March, was attended by community leaders, institutional partners, and friends of the museum, and was a testament to the power of collective effort and the enduring importance of preserving Black history.

The Erwins, who donated more than 1,500 books, African artifacts, and jazz CDs to the museum, were lauded for their immeasurable contributions to the preservation of African and African American heritage.

The story of the Erwins’ donation is one of serendipity and generosity. As they prepared to move from their home on Sedgwick Street, the couple faced the daunting task of finding a new home for their extensive collection of books.

“I remember sitting in the back room, surrounded by books, and thinking, ‘What are we going to do with all of this?’” Mr. Erwin recalled with a chuckle.

The answer came in the form of a phone call to Supreme Dow, the museum’s founder and curator. Mr. Dow, who arrived with a couple of boxes, was unprepared for the magnitude of the Erwins’ collection. “I went upstairs and found myself in the middle of a library,” he recounted.

When he asked which books to take, the Erwins replied, “All of them.” What followed was a whirlwind of trips to a store for boxes and three days of packing, resulting in over 75 boxes of books and countless treasures.

The archives, now a cornerstone of the museum, house not only books but also rare and signed editions, including works by Langston Hughes and Amiri Baraka. Among the gems is a first edition of “the Usawa” by Dr. Maulana Karenga, signed and dedicated to the Erwins.

These artifacts, Mr. Dow emphasized, hold more than monetary value. “They are lessons, stories, and legacies that will inspire generations to come.”

The dedication ceremony was a heartfelt affair, with speeches from local leaders, including State Representative Andre Carroll, who shared his own journey of discovering the museum during the pandemic.

“This institution is a treasure,” Mr. Carroll said. “It’s a place where our history is preserved and celebrated, and it’s an honor to have it in the district I serve.”

Victoria Bennett, the museum’s board chair, echoed these sentiments, thanking the Erwins and the community for their unwavering support. “This museum exists because of people like you,” she said. “Your contributions ensure that our stories are told and our voices are heard.”

For Mr. Erwin, the journey to becoming a lover of history and literature was a personal one. He shared how his early disdain for history transformed after trips to Africa and encounters with scholars like Dr. John Henrik Clarke and Dr. Asa Hilliard.

“When you start reading African history, it takes you to the rest of the world,” he said. His passion for learning and sharing knowledge has been a guiding force in his life, and now, through the archives, it will continue to inspire others.

As the ceremony concluded, attendees were invited to explore the museum and view the archives, which are still being cataloged and organized. Mr. Dow, ever the visionary, reminded the audience of the museum’s humble beginnings and the challenges it has faced, from fires to pandemics.

“This building stands because of the love and support of this community,” he said. “And today, we honor two people who embody that spirit.”

The plaque presented to them reads: “Theodore and Elsie Erwin Archives: Dedicated Educators and Founding Friends of the Black Writers Museum. In recognition of your generous gift of over 1,500 books and your immeasurable love for our youth.”

As visitors walked through the museum, the spirit of the Erwins’ generosity was palpable. Their gift is more than a collection of books; it is a legacy of love, learning, and the unyielding belief in the power of history to shape the future.

Mr. Dow told The Final Call, “As a small institution without an endowment, this donation has an immense impact on preserving Black literature and making it accessible to our youth.”

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The gymnasium was transformed into a regal setting, with black and gold decorations symbolizing the dignity and grace with which Minister Akbar lived. His favorite jazz standards played softly in the background, while a photo exhibition on a large screen chronicled his extraordinary journey.

Tributes poured in from across the globe, including heartfelt messages from Doha, Tunisia, and Tanzania. One particularly moving tribute came from Dr. Arikana Chihombori Quao, a Zimbabwean diplomat and activist, who praised Minister Akbar for his lifelong advocacy for Black unity. “He was a bridge between continents, a man who connected us to our roots and inspired us to dream of a united Africa,” she said.

The program was hosted by Student Minister Jamil Muhammad, who opened the event with a warm greeting. “We are here to celebrate a life well-lived, a touchstone in our history,” he said. “Minister Akbar was a historian of the first rank, a man who taught us how to make history while honoring it.”

Minister Akbar’s daughter, Sister Germaine Prescott-Harris, delivered a deeply personal and emotional tribute. “To the world, he was a leader, a historian, and a soldier. But to me, he was simply Dad,” she shared. Sis. Germaine recounted stories of her father’s unwavering support, from attending her graduations to naming her granddaughter. “He always sent me postcards from around the world, reminding me that no matter where he was, he was thinking of me,” she said, her voice breaking with emotion. She concluded with a heartfelt prayer, thanking Allah (God) for her father’s life and legacy.

Another powerful moment came from Sis. Nafisatu Bukar Muhammad, Minister Akbar’s wife, who spoke of his teachings and their shared journey. “He taught me about the politics of the world and the importance of service,” she said. “He was a wonderful man, and I learned so much from him.”

Bro. Jihad Muhammad, one of Minister Akbar’s sons, reflected on the lessons his father imparted. “He taught me leadership, humility, and the importance of connecting with people,” he said. “My father was an exceptional man, and his principles will guide me for the rest of my life.”

Hadiya Claxton, Special Envoy for St. Kitts and Nevis, shared her family’s deep connection to Minister Akbar. “He was a giant in the service of the global African community,” she said. “His vision of Pan-Africanism was not just a dream—it became a force that connected us across borders, oceans, and generations. My family’s first visit to West Africa was because of his invitation and encouragement, and those moments shaped our sense of belonging and connection. His legacy is a beacon that continues to inspire us all.”

Upon the news of his passing, family members of Minister Jabril Muhammad, a close friend of Min. Akbar and pioneer of the Nation of Islam, sent a letter to express their gratitude for the life of such a man. “With profound gratitude for Almighty God Allah’s many blessings, the family of Min. Jabril Muhammad joins the Nation of Islam and the global community in commemorating the extraordinary life and transition of our beloved brother, Minister Abdul Akbar Muhammad,” the letter from Sis. Ati Cushmeer on behalf of the family stated in part.

“To us, he was more than a towering figure on the world stage; he was a humble, down-to-earth brother and friend to our father and one of the companions of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan. Although both were pioneers in the Nation, their bond was sealed in a sacred moment of history—as foundational members of the rebuilding of the Nation of Islam. By the will of Almighty God Allah, the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan attracted some of the best strategic and intellectual minds to rebuild the Nation. Bro. Akbar was in that number, but he stands out as one of those who would form the pillars that the Nation of Islam stands on today.”

Sis. Samimah Aziz, another of Minister Akbar’s daughters, offered a heartfelt perspective on her father’s final days and the importance of caring for elders. “My father was diagnosed with vascular dementia, and we put together a care team to ensure he was well taken care of,” she said. “It’s so important for us to think about how we care for our seniors. My father’s strength and courage were evident even in his final days, and I am eternally grateful for the support of the Nation of Islam and our family during that time.”

Eric Grier, one of Min. Akbar’s grandsons (son of his late daughter Madinah), recalled some life lessons his grandfather taught him. “I owe the type of life that I have to my grandfather. He taught me the importance of community, my family, going back to Africa and having a worldly perspective.”

Min. Akbar’s granddaughter, Sis. Naeesa Aziz, thanked her grandfather for encouraging her to write about her life experiences. “I’m a writer today because of him. He always encouraged us to be curious about the world and to be informed about everything that’s going on in the world.” Following in the footsteps of her grandfather as a world traveler, she added, “and the final thing he taught me was to always sign up for the airlines’ mileage program to get your miles when you fly,” she laughed.

Other notable figures, including Flavor Flav of Public Enemy, shared fond memories with The Final Call of Minister Akbar’s hospitality during a trip to Ghana. “He was like a leader to me, always humble and full of wisdom,” the hip-hop legend said.

Student Minister and Student Imam Abdul Salaam Muhammad of Mosque No. 6 in Baltimore also shared a heartfelt memory with The Final Call of his first encounter with Minister Akbar. “I remember meeting him in Baltimore in 1990. He was auctioning a record from Black Family Day 1974, and I kept bidding on it. He asked me why I wanted it so badly, and I told him it was because I loved history and that I had turned one year old on that very day. That moment began a journey of mentorship and brotherhood that I will carry with me forever,” he said. Student Min. Salaam is also the N.O.I. Archivist. Reflecting on Minister Akbar’s legacy, he added, “He taught us to never devalue life’s journey. His work as a world traveler and historian showed us that we could come from America and make friends all over the world.”

Student Minister Troy Muhammad of Detroit also spoke of Minister Akbar’s profound influence. “I was blessed to invite him to our mosque on several occasions, where he shared historical insights that left a lasting impact,” he said. “The power of his words and the strength in his voice were undeniable. His dedication to service and his role as the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan’s best helper are lessons we can all strive to emulate. His legacy is endless.”

From the Southern Region of the Nation of Islam, similar echoes of relationships built by and through Min. Akbar resonated with those who traveled to pay their respects. Atlanta held a viewing on March 23 prior to the Chicago viewing, March 26 and the janazah on March 27.
Bro. Ronald Muhammad and his wife, Sis. Janice of Mosque No. 15 in Atlanta, traveled to Chicago for the service. “We’re so honored to be here and be a part of this. I think what stands out the most (for me) is his work with the Ummah Reflects podcast (formerly the Ramadan Prayer Line) and being so instrumental in the World Friendship Tours of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan. We’re just grateful and thankful to Allah for this worthy servant, and he’s dearly missed,” he said.

Bro. Leonard F. Muhammad, a member of the Nation of Islam Shura Executive Council, reflected on Minister Akbar’s mentorship and perseverance. “When I came into the Nation of Islam, Brother Akbar was already doing the work. The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan paired us together, and that began a brotherhood that lasted until his passing,” he said. Brother Leonard highlighted Minister Akbar’s resilience, particularly in the face of health challenges. “He had a heart attack many years ago, but he became a pescatarian and an avid walker, which contributed to his longevity. He showed us that while we say ‘Allah is the Best Knower,’ we still have to put in the work to live. Brother Akbar exemplified that.”

Brother Leonard also emphasized Minister Akbar’s unparalleled contributions as the Nation of Islam’s only International Representative. “He wasn’t just given a title—he defined it through his work. From world tours to ensuring the Minister was invited to global conferences, Brother Akbar did more on an international level than most congressmen or senators. His legacy as a diplomat for the Nation of Islam is unmatched.”

Student Minister Jamil Muhammad summed up the sentiment of the day: “Minister Akbar was a unique individual who could connect people from all walks of life. His legacy is one of service, unity, and unwavering faith.”

As the program concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, inspired by the life of a man who dedicated himself to the betterment of others. Minister Abdul Akbar Muhammad’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to resonate, not only within the Nation of Islam but across the world.

Final Call Contributing Writer J.A. Salaam, Guest Writer Eric Ture Muhammad, and Final Call Staff contributed to this report.

The post A celebration of legacy: Honoring Minister Abdul Akbar Muhammad appeared first on Final Call News.

For years, the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan has called on the Black community to work to make their communities decent and safe places to live, which was the subject of the keynote message delivered at Saviours’ Day 2026.

The Philadelphia event, titled “Beyond History: Making Our Communities Safe and Decent,” was a call to action rooted in unity, self-improvement and a reclamation of identity.

The panel discussion, hosted during the sacred seasons of Lent and Ramadan, opened with a heartfelt prayer from Reverend Cassius Rudolph of Saints Memorial Church and past special assistant to Reverend Al Sharpton.

“We gather today not just to reflect on our history, but to move forward,” Reverend Rudolph declared. “Safe and decent communities do not happen by accident—they happen when neighbors talk to neighbors, when institutions show up, and when many faiths come together.”

Philadelphia, like many urban centers, faces significant challenges. While homicides have declined from their peak in 2021, the city still recorded more than 400 in 2023, according to Philadelphia Police Department data, with Black Philadelphians disproportionately affected. Poverty, housing instability, and limited opportunities for youth remain persistent issues.

Yet, as Reverend Rudolph reminded the audience, “Philadelphia is filled with brilliance, resilience, and the real possibility of becoming something greater than it is today. But it is up to us to make that happen.”

The evening’s first presentation was delivered by Nation of Islam Student Delaware Valley Regional Minister Rodney Muhammad of Mosque No. 12 who spoke about the transformative power of faith and self-improvement.

“The community will never be better than the people in it,” he said. Drawing on the Teachings of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad, he emphasized the importance of reclaiming Black identity and history. “If you know who you are and what you’ve done, then you know what to expect of yourself,” he said.

Student Minister Rodney Muhammad also highlighted the resilience of the Black community, likening it to the earth’s ability to regenerate after a forest fire. “They flooded our communities with heroin and guns, but even still, we produced record numbers of college graduates,” he said. “We don’t fully know how tough we are,” he added.

Minister Quadri Harris, a Ph.D. student at Temple University and college minister, spoke on some of the rich Black African history from 4241 BCE in the ancient Nile Valley. “We don’t know who we are because we don’t know where we come from,” Minister Harris asserted.

He emphasized the importance of teaching Black history as a continuous, unbroken narrative, rather than beginning with slavery. “When our people know who they truly are, much of what ails us begins to heal.”

 He called for coalitions between Black Christian and Muslim communities, urging them to prioritize unity over division. “We must not allow our religious differences to prevent us from building coalitions,” he said. “The blueprint is there. We just need to follow it.”

Hugh Clark, a retired attorney and school administrator of Lotus Academy, a Philadelphia-based Afrocentric school, spoke passionately about the role of education in healing the wounds of slavery and systemic oppression.

“Education must be about more than learning—it must also be about healing,” Mr. Clark said. He outlined Lotus Academy’s philosophy of  “identity to the third power,” emphasizing the importance of self-knowledge, ethical ideals, and rigorous academic preparation.

Mr. Clark also addressed the psychological scars left by slavery, noting that self-hatred, instilled during the era of enslavement, continues to manifest in community violence.  “Our young people are kings and queens, but they must be taught that because they have been taught the opposite,” he said.

The discussion concluded with concrete steps for community building from grassroots guest organizations. Jabril Yusef of the group, Brotherhood Day, spoke on fostering intergenerational connections by starting with small, personal actions;

Stanley James of the group Philly Truce, spoke on the importance of building trust through consistent, visible presence and team-based community safety efforts.

Brother John Muhammad of Mosque No. 35 in Wilmington, Delaware, suggested holding monthly Black history weekends, adopting a youth to mentor, and creating job opportunities for young people. Bro. John explained that some of our young people who some may think as the “worst,” only “just wanted somebody to talk to.”

The evening ended with a powerful reminder. Reverend Rudolph concluded, “We have enough capital in the Black community alone to build the beloved community that King spoke about. The prophets gave us the blueprint. All we have to do is tap into it.”

As the audience dispersed, the message was clear: the work of making communities safe and decent begins with each individual, each institution, and each act of unity. Together, we can transform our future.

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DETROIT—The Grand Riverview Ballroom at Huntington Place in Detroit was transformed into a breathtaking haven of elegance and fine dining on Feb. 20. The occasion? The 2026 Saviours’ Day Awards Banquet, a highlight of the Nation of Islam’s annual Saviours’ Day convention.

The event brought together believers from across the country to celebrate excellence, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of service within the Nation of Islam. It was a night filled with heartfelt tributes, stirring speeches, and a palpable sense of unity and gratitude.

“Brothers and sisters, tonight is a blessed evening of celebration, reflection, and gratitude,” declared Student Minister Jeffrey Muhammad, who served as the master of ceremonies. “This is not merely a banquet. This is a sacred pause in time—a moment to honor those who have let their light shine before men.”

More than just a celebration, the banquet was a commemoration of the Birth of Master Fard Muhammad, Allah (God) in Person, The Great Mahdi and Teacher of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad and the spiritual awakening He brought to a once-lost people. It was a reminder of His Divine Intervention that has guided the Nation of Islam and the sacrifices made by its members.

Student Min. Jeffrey eloquently reflected that, “Saviours’ Day marks that Allah has intervened in human affairs. We thank Master Fard Muhammad for giving to us the greatest gifts that any human being could ever ask for—the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad and the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan.”

Adding to the evening’s significance was the presence of Mother Khadijah Farrakhan, the beloved wife of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan. Her attendance was met with deep respect and admiration, as she has long been a pillar of strength and grace within the Nation of Islam.

The room, adorned with elegant décor, exuded a sense of reverence and celebration as the Deon Yates Soul Project provided the musical soundtrack. As dinner was served, the program shifted to honor the pioneers and laborers who have dedicated their lives to the mission of the Nation of Islam.

The first Lifetime Achievement Award honoree was Sister Betsy Jean Farrakhan, eldest daughter of Minister Farrakhan and Mother Khadijah. Sister Betsy Jean’s lifetime of service was celebrated with a standing ovation.

Her contributions to the Nation of Islam, from her leadership as the National M.G.T. and G.C.C. Captain to her groundbreaking work in sustainable agriculture, were highlighted as testaments to her enduring legacy.

Her dedication to the women’s training programs and her passion for organic farming practices and producing healthy food for the community was described as a reflection of her love and commitment to the Nation’s mission. Her sister, Sister Khallada Farrakhan, accepted the award on her behalf.

Student Minister Donald Muhammad was also presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award and was recognized for his decades of spiritual leadership and community service in St. Louis. His journey, which began in 1975 when he joined the Nation of Islam, has been marked by unwavering dedication and a deep love for the people he serves.

In his acceptance speech, Student Minister Donald reflected on the impact of the Teachings of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad and the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan on his life.

“This is truly a happy Saviours’ Day for me,” he said, his voice filled with emotion. “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve and for the support of my family and community.”

The Outstanding Service Award was presented to Sister Aliyah Muhammad. A registered Muslim since 1968 under the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad, Sister Aliyah rejoined the Nation in 1980 in the early rebuilding efforts of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan.

She served in various leadership roles, including as a second officer at Muhammad Mosque No. 2 in Chicago, now named Mosque Maryam, and later as head of the Processing Department, where she oversaw “Letters to the Saviour” nationwide.

The evening also paid tribute to pioneers and laborers who passed on, with a solemn moment of silence to honor their sacrifices. Student Minister Ishmael Muhammad, National Assistant to the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, recounted the profound impact these individuals had on the Nation’s growth.

Among those remembered was Brother Abdul Wali Muhammad, the former editor of The Final Call newspaper, whose dedication to the Nation’s voice and mission left an indelible mark. His work in shaping the publication into a powerful tool for truth and justice was celebrated as a cornerstone of the Nation’s communication efforts.

East Coast powerhouse Student Minister Abdul Karriem Muhammad was remembered as a devoted soldier of the Nation of Islam who exemplified the spirit of service and sacrifice. Known for his unwavering commitment to the mission, Brother Karriem’s contributions to the Nation’s growth and his legacy of leadership and dedication continue to inspire those who follow his footsteps.

The tribute also honored Mother Evelyn Muhammad, a wife of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad and a beloved figure whose life was a testament to faith, love, and resilience. Her nurturing spirit and unwavering support for the Nation’s mission were remembered with gratitude.

Additionally, the evening celebrated the life and contributions of Brother Naba’a Muhammad, a stalwart of the Nation of Islam and a former editor of The Final Call newspaper. His tenure as editor was described as outstanding, with his work elevating the publication to what was called “the greatest newspaper on the planet.”

As Student Minister Ishmael Muhammad noted, “We can never forget Brother Naba’a Muhammad, our former editor of The Final Call newspaper. Allah says in the Holy Qur’an, ‘None of those who die or are slain in the way of Allah are dead. Nay, they are alive, but you perceive not.’”

A special tribute was paid to Student East Coast Regional Minister Abdul Hafeez Muhammad from Muhammad Mosque No. 7 in New York.

“We want to take a moment to pay special tribute on behalf of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan and the Shura Executive Council to Student Minister Abdul Hafeez Muhammad,” the audience was told. His leadership and dedication to the mission of the Nation of Islam set a standard that others strive to duplicate.

Other distinguished helpers to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award, included Student Minister Thomas Jehad. At 90 years young, Student Minister Jehad is known for his wisdom, generosity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Minister Jehad shared personal letters from the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad, offering a rare glimpse into the history and guidance that shaped his journey.

He was also present in 1955 when Minster Farrakhan attended his very first F.O.I. Class (Fruit of Islam, the men of the Nation of Islam) when he made a serious vow to take the Teachings of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad to “every nook and cranny” of the U.S.

The final Lifetime Achievement Award of the evening was presented to Southern Regional Student Minister Abdul Sharrieff Muhammad, whose tireless efforts in community building and conflict resolution have left an indelible mark. Brother Sharrieff is also the former Supreme Captain of the Nation of Islam.

His son, Brother Joshua Muhammad, accepted the award on his behalf, delivering a moving tribute to his father’s commitment to the Nation of Islam and its mission.

“My father represents an oath,” Bro. Joshua said, his voice filled with pride. “He has never turned his back on his leader, his God, or his family. He has stood firm in his faith and his commitment to the Nation.”

The 2026 Saviours’ Day Awards Banquet was not just a celebration of individual achievements but a testament to the collective spirit of the Nation of Islam. It was a night that honored the past, celebrated the present, and inspired hope for the future.

This grand event served as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the Nation of Islam and the individuals who have dedicated their lives to its mission.

The post A night of elegance and honor at Nation of Islam Awards Banquet appeared first on Final Call News.

The National Park Service (NPS) workers dismantled the exhibit on Thursday, January 22, which honored nine enslaved individuals owned by Washington and explored the role of slavery in early U.S. history.

Panels titled “Life Under Slavery” and “The Dirty Business of Slavery” were taken down, leaving an empty space where history once stood. The removal has sparked outrage, lawsuits, and a reckoning with the nation’s ongoing struggle to confront its past.

The Interior Department, which oversees the NPS, justified the removal, stating to Reuters: “The President has directed federal agencies to review interpretive materials to ensure accuracy, honesty, and alignment with shared national values.”

Critics, however, see this as part of a broader agenda tied to Project 2025, a Heritage Foundation blueprint to reshape the nation’s institutions along right-wing lines.

Philadelphia City Council Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson in a statement called the move “a troubling pattern of racist and bigoted actions that sow division, perpetuate hatred, and betray the very values our nation claims to uphold.”

The timing of the removal is particularly striking. As Philadelphia prepares to host America’s 250th Anniversary celebrations, the city is thrust into the global spotlight. The exhibit’s absence, many argue, undermines the integrity of the nation’s historical narrative at a moment when the world is watching.

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker’s administration has filed a federal lawsuit against the Interior Department and the NPS, seeking a preliminary injunction to restore the displays.

The city’s complaint argues that the removal was “arbitrary and capricious” and violated prior agreements requiring consultation with local stakeholders.

City Council President Kenyatta Johnson condemned the removal in a statement as “an effort to whitewash American history.”

He emphasized the exhibit’s importance in educating the public about the resilience of the enslaved and the complexities of the nation’s founding. “History cannot be erased simply because it is uncomfortable,” Mr. Johnson stated.

Attorney Michael Coard, a key figure in the exhibit’s creation, in a statement, called the removal “historical blasphemy” and urged both legal and grassroots action. “In the words of ancestor Frederick Douglass, ‘Agitate! Agitate! Agitate!’ And along with those profound words, I add these: ‘Litigate! Litigate! Litigate!’” he said

The removal has ignited a firestorm of criticism from community leaders, activists, and residents, including Supreme Dow, a prominent voice in Philadelphia’s Black community.

He criticized what he deemed as a tepid response by some local politicians to what is happening. “Being scared has never gotten us anywhere. It’s the ones who showed courage and bravery and stood in the face of bullies that made progress in this country.”

Stanley Crawford, another community leader, called for economic resistance. “If we, as an ethnic group, say to the powers that be, ‘You don’t want to acknowledge our existence? We will not spend $1 to help you during your celebrations,’ they will feel the effect of our power,” he said.

“Since Philadelphia is going be the focal point of this 250-year celebration … we should start organizing demonstrations for that whole period so we can show the world the hypocrisy … instead of celebrating with it that’s demonstrated against it,” Mr. Crawford added.

Nation of Islam Student Minister Rodney Muhammad, of Mosque No. 12 in Philadelphia, framed the removal as an “act of war” against Black history. “When Black America sees it properly, it’s a fight for the truth of our own existence.

Future generations will take the distorted picture of historical revisionist acts because then [the oppressors] are always able to define us and give us our sense of worth and value,” said Student Min. Rodney Muhammad.

The President’s House slavery exhibit was more than a collection of panels and plaques; it was a space for truth-telling, a place where the stories of the enslaved could be heard in the shadow of Independence Hall.

For 15 years, it stood as a testament to the resilience of those who endured unimaginable suffering and as a reminder of the nation’s unfinished work in confronting its past.

The removal of the exhibit is not just a local issue; it is a national one. It raises urgent questions about who gets to tell America’s story and whose voices are silenced in the process. As the nation approaches its 250th Anniversary, the fight to restore the exhibit is about more than preserving history—it’s about defending the truth.

For now, the space at Sixth and Market Streets remains empty, a stark symbol of what has been lost. But the voices of those who refuse to let history be erased are growing louder. The battle for the President’s House slavery exhibit is far from over.

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