When a Muslim head of a non profit organization that promotes “dialogue” and “building bridges” publicly calls another leader in the Muslim community uncivil and lacks intelligence and continues to double down on other statuses and then posts about it on their Facebook saying “I thinks it’s an issue of capacity and abilities” and continues to discredit leaders and visionaries – then they should be called out for it. Screenshots are available as well.
Imam Dawud Walid is known for his fiery speech delivery and impassioned sermons. He is not only a leader, an imam, a media spokesperson representing the best Muslims have to offer, he is also a Black man in America who stands in his power and has moved and challenged our community to take on race and racism as a top priority issue. He was one of the participants in the debate lead by the ISPU at ISNA where he and Dr. Sahar Aziz argued against engaging in government-lead Countering Violent Extremism programs that could harm and criminalize our communities further. We know many disagreed with their positions but by no means can anyone in good conscience or good faith say that Imam Dawud lacks intellect.
I am outraged when Arab American Muslim or South Asian Muslim leaders question Black Americans on “civility” or “intellect” cause we confirm once again the stereotype that Black people are just angry, and that they need to work twice as hard to prove their worth and capabilities. This is a form of anti-black racism that some may be doing subconciously or even consciously. As an Arab American I am ashamed of the actions of this leader and will do my part to challenge this mindset. I have responded directly on other threads but took this time to use this as a learning opportunity.
If you disagree with someone’s positions – you state your points you don’t police their tone nor question their intellect because their positions don’t match yours. When you critique someone especially of stature in a community – see them as a whole person. I don’t agree with Imam Dawud on some issues but will never question his or anyone else’s intellect. This is absolutely offensive and should not be left unchallenged in our communities.
Let’s remember that we are to treat people the way we want to be treated – with dignity and respect. We are Muslim and we are to remember that we are sisters and brothers and some level of decency and mercy is in order in accordance to our faith.
Source: Linda Sarsour
