Reflecting on Anti-Blackness in our Community this Ramadan

Co-contributed by Haleema Bharoocha and Pa Ousman Jobe

Solidarity in Struggle: South Asians For Black Lives is a project of Malikah, created by South Asian women in the Bay Area/Ohlone Land. Our goal is to raise awareness about anti-Blackness among South Asians, help South Asians to explore their identity and heal from historical and current trauma, and mobilize South Asians for racial solidarity. We do this by hosting in person programs, sharing educational posts online, and via webinars.

Dismantling anti-Blackness and building racial solidarity is a matter of urgency, our survival depends on it because our liberation is bound together. Oppressive systems like white supremacy, colorism, racism, and xenophobia work together to harm people of color. So if one community is oppressed, it is as if we all are. As Muslims, we are taught that Islam is a faith of social justice and does now allow us to be bystanders to any injustice. In many of the teachings we are morally obligated to do anything we can to dismantle oppression. 

Ramadan is a time of reflection for us to think about our role in dismantling oppression. The Quran says “stand firm in justice, be it against yourselves or your parents.” When looking at anti-Blackness,* this verse reminds us of the internal and personal work we must do to “stand firm in justice” against anti-Blackness. This means reflecting on our own anti-Black bias. Here are 2 self reflective activities to help guide you.

Ramadan is usually a time when we get closer with our family and community. It is a perfect time to start the conversation about addressing anti-Blackness. Here are some tips for how you can talk to those you are close to about anti-Blackness.

Learn more about fighting racism in the Muslim community during Ramadan here.

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