To the Editor:
While supermarkets are clamoring to fill their shelves with chocolates, cards, and overpriced stuffed animals, February marks another important event besides the quintessential Valentine’s Day. Black History Month is an annual celebration throughout the month of February for the commemoration of significant individuals and events in the history of the African Diaspora. Martin Luther King Jr. remains fresh in our minds as we recall his efforts towards brotherhood and equality during this month of remembrance.
Incidentally, I am reminded of another man who worked tirelessly for equality and brotherhood nearly 1400 years ago: the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be on him). Muhammad’s life is the most iconic portrayal of his dedication to civil rights, whether it be raising the status of slaves, women, and orphans, or establishing racial equality amongst the mixed population of Arabia. In his Farewell Sermon (coincidentally in February), Muhammad left his followers with these final words: “A white has no superiority over a black nor a black has any superiority over a white except by piety and good action.” It is this timeless advice that we can consider as we remember Martin Luther King Jr. and many other brave and tireless individuals who fought for racial and social equality that we honor during Black History Month.
Shumaila Ahmad, Chantilly