Documentary Depicts Unfair Treatment of Black Muslims

Students explain what it means to be a Black Muslim to help others understand their religion and be aware of the treatment they face.

The first 13 minutes of the event showcased a short documentary film called Black, Bold & Beautiful, produced by Green River student Mohamed Abdullahi. The short film expresses the challenges Black Muslims face. Conflicts range from blatant racism to unfair treatment by others. The film also expresses how difficult it is being Black, Muslim, and being both. Black Muslims are often treated poorly because of the combination of their race and religion.

The film depicts the emotional side of being a Black Muslim, as told by Black Muslims. It also addresses the misconception of Black female Muslims in society and how Muslim women are not treated as poorly as people believe.

The panel board consisted of five students, who were seated in front of the audience to answer questions about being a Black Muslim. In response to what they hope the short film will do for others, student Abdi Ibrihim said, “Me and Mohamed [are] showing the emotional side. The last piece of narrative shows understanding your identity, [describing what] people who aren’t a minority don’t experience.” Abdullahi also replied by saying, “I hope the film will help people understand. I hope you can acknowledge what we go through.”

Most students were from America, but there was one international student, Sumeya Arbi. Arbi explained the difficulties she has faced both in her home country and in America. Arbi said, “[There is racism] in the Muslim community.” A comment from another Muslim showcases it: Arbi talked about an encounter with a Muslim man, who commented on her beauty, stating, “You look really pretty for a Black Muslim.” She could not believe someone who also identifies as Muslim said something demeaning to her.

Director for the Office of Diversity, Marwa Almusawi, asked the panel about their experiences as Black Muslim women. Arbi said, “People who aren’t Muslim tell me how to wear my headscarf. People don’t understand being a Muslim woman.” Arbi expressed how others do not understand Muslim culture, and that people should further educate themselves. Another panel member, Amun Ahmed said, “I’m comfortable with my religion. It’s important for me to let people know I’m not being oppressed. I’m restricting myself.” With the amount of different cultures, it is important to educate oneself so that one can understand different cultures. By doing this, a person can understand these women are not being oppressed, they choose to do this by their own will. Panel member Aisha Mohamed said, “Everyone needs to educate themselves on Islamic culture.”

Audience member Andaiye Qaasim, an academic adviser with the International Programs at Green River College, asked the panel how classes at Green River can be more informative about Black Muslims. Ibrahim said, “If we had more teachers of color, and expressed the wants and needs of Black Muslim teachers, I feel the higher-ups who control the classes will be more willing.” Abdullahi commented, “Students through clubs and organizations can help educate others and help them understand.” This response was unanimously agreed by the rest of the panel. In addition, Abdullahi said, “If the school sees how important it is to us, they will listen.”

It is important to note that joining diverse clubs or organizations and educating oneself and others is important to understanding different cultures. “This will take longer than a quarter,” Mohamed said.

The event discussed important aspects of being a Black Muslim and the challenges they face. The short documentary film Black, Bold & Beautiful: Documentary Short Film can be found on YouTube.