Harry Belafonte a giant among men who served a divine purpose
While all people are granted the gift of life, some only exist, and others contribute to the experience of life. The list of those who gave back to life would be woefully incomplete absent the name of Harry Belafonte, the activist, humanitarian, actor, and singer. He died on April 25 of congestive heart failure at his home in New...
A Black Muslim doctor shares insight into the world of optics
by Azizah Muhammad Diabetes and glaucoma—two medical conditions that affect eyesight—are growing issues within the Black community. But, according to recent medical studies, less than two percent of Black optometrists in the United States are Black. Further medical studies suggest that patients respond better when they receive medical treatment from a physician of the same race or ethnicity. “So, there’s a...
Minneapolis NAACP sues city over police spying allegations
MINNEAPOLIS—The Minneapolis NAACP sued the city of Minneapolis on April 26 over allegations that police officers used phony social media accounts to spy on activists without a legitimate public safety purpose. The lawsuit, filed in federal court, alleges that the Minneapolis Police Department discriminated against the NAACP and violated its members’ constitutional rights when it singled out the organization for...
Nearly half of young Americans feel unsafe amid concerns over gun violence, homelessness: Poll
A new study has revealed that about half of young Americans feel unsafe amid concerns over gun violence and homelessness, with a quarter of them having thoughts that they would be “better off dead.” A poll conducted by the Institute of Politics at Harvard Kennedy School showed that 48 percent of Americans aged between 18 and 29 have felt unsafe...
Minnesota officer who fatally shot Daunte Wright freed
SHAKOPEE, Minn.—Kim Potter, the former Minnesota police officer who said she mistook her gun for a Taser when she shot and killed Daunte Wright in 2021, was released from prison early April 24. The Minnesota Department of Corrections said Potter was released at about 4 a.m. “out of an abundance of caution” for Potter’s safety. Potter, a White former officer for the Brooklyn...
Increasing air pollution in Black areas linked to asthma and other health issues
When most people think of environmental issues, topics and phrases such as recycling, electric cars, community gardening, clean energy, and chemical-free are at the forefront of their minds. However, there is also another reality of environmental issues that do not come to people’s minds or they may be unaware of, the degradation of health in majority Black and Brown communities. Several...
Bread and Milk: How to Obtain the Most Health Benefits
by Dr. Christina Parks Guest Columnist “Fresh fruit and fresh edible vegetables and good pure wheat bread, pure milk and butter are the best food for man.”—How To Eat To Live, Book 2, p. 64 The Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad and the Bible both lift up bread and milk as life-giving foods. The Bible often refers to Jesus as “The Bread...
2023 Ramadan reflections and celebrating Eid-ul’Fitr
By Daleel Jabir Muhammad Muslims around the world celebrated and observed the conclusion of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, rejuvenation, service and a renewed commitment to faith. Eid-ul’Fitr (Id-Al’Fitr) or “Festival of Renewal” or “Holiday/Festival of Breaking the Fast” celebrations took place in various Muslim communities. Communities participated in communal prayers, food, games and exchanged gifts. Nearly two billion...
United Iftar gathering hosted at UN headquarters
By Daleel Jabir Muhammad NEW YORK—Prior to the conflict in the country of Sudan that started on April 15, New York City enjoyed a United Iftar celebration at the United Nations headquarters in Manhattan. Muslim leaders from across the five boroughs along with Muslims and Christians from the counties of Long Island and Westchester participated in the breaking of the...