Sins could come in so many different forms, there’s countless ways as to how you could commit a sin and that’s why we moslems always as God for forgiveness.
America was built on racism and oppression that's the unspoken truth of the how the British behaved. Yes he got paid 2 mil a year but master made that ten fold. If it wasn't for the black man the NBA would fold. If every black in the league would have stood behind Mahmoud we wouldn't be having this discussion.
AAAH😎.....!!, YEAH........!!, YO.................!!, ℹ️ ABSOLUTELY 💯% PERCENT AGREE WITH YOU & ℹ️ WILL INCLUDE FREEDOM & PEACE✌️T👀...!!, THAT MONEY💰 CAN’T BUY FAM😎🇺🇸
What an awesome documentary! It's a shame that the NBA has practically erased him from the books. I'm 46 so I remember his journey. I sat and watched this with my 14 year old who had NEVER even heard of Mahmoud. What a pleasure to have this footage available for younger kids coming up.
never been accustomed to using the word hero because I always feel like my father has been THE MAN in my life. But as a young kid growing up in Louisiana when he was at LSU I was the hugest admirer of his talent and gifts. Always one of my favorites.
I know him personally from Gulfport Mississippi where we played basketball at Herbert Wilson gym. He has always been a straight up guy in my life. I definitely will RIDE with on what ever he believes... 1 Luv My brother...
So basically they proved his point as far as being oppressive and with tyranny bye ostracizing him from the NBA and burning down his house there you go!
Chris Jackson, Abdul Mahmoud Rauf has been a large inspiration to my life since I've first heard about him as a high school phenomenon. His love of family and community, his strive for perfection, his generosity is an inspiration for all. Brother, please continue to live out the most high's plan for you. Besides being a tremendous athlete, you're a great human being. May Allah bless you and your family for your awareness, dedication and values. All you can do is be who you were destined to be.
HE IS TRULY AN INSPIRATION. THIS IS WHAT YOU CALL A "TRUE" MUSLIM. UNRELENTING AND FEARLESS IN HIS LOVE FOR ALLAH, ISLAM, AND BASKETBALL. A GREAT DOCUMENTARY... IT HAS TRULY UPLIFTED MY SOUL TO HEAR AND SEE THE STRUGGLES AND COURAGE OF THIS GREAT MAN. MASHA' ALLAH. AND MAY GOD BLESS AMERICA, THE LAND THAT LETS US PRAY TO, ACT, AND SPEAK AS WE WISH. PEACE & LOVE.
This is a masterpiece. It means a lot especially currently with Colin Kaepernick situation as well as how the muslim are being portrayed by the media. Thank you for the upload!
soon as I seen Kap not stand for anthem I thought of chris jackson...wicked jump shot, followed him from LSU...good hearted person, shame how the nba n public treated him...but he stood up for his beliefs n I respect dat...
❤ this great black leader who took a stand for what he believed and payed a piece for It and was kicked out of the NBA as a basketball player! Dr.tyrone of Chester PA
Another example of how 'Freedom of Speech' may be Free --- but it comes with a price! At the time of Chris' name change to Mahmoud, I had just returned from the initial "Desert Shield/Desert Storm" operation. And I had no problem with his not standing for the National Anthem! I have more of a problem with citizens and businesses flying the flag incorrectly or displaying it, raised at night without it being lighted! But I remember at the time thinking about Rauf, and saying, if he doesn't want to stand, why doesn't he just go to the locker room --- pray and do his beliefs --- and return when the song is over. But young folks, when you take a stand on something --- there are dues you gotta pay, and unfortunately for him . . . he had to pay them. I never knew his future home was burned, but I am not surprised. And I don't think he was black-balled, it's just that owners didn't want to have the narrative of their team being about him or problems --- they are in the entertainment business. I don't know if Colin was aware of this man, but he should have been told about it. But I do know this --- these men may have lost out on millions, but I guarantee and the end of the day --- they are looking at themselves in the mirror and saying --- "I did what I felt was right." And you can't hate 'em for that!
Dude stuck up for his beliefs and there may not have understood Islam or wanted to at that time , but they can’t deny every era had a powerful Muslim that said “no that’s not alright with me” and I think that is beautiful. Even if you’re a Christian or whoever if there’s something that doesn’t sit well with you and you’re not causing chaos or encouraging violence then what’s so wrong with speaking your mind your side or even telling the media or your company that you work for hey I’m human I come with my own rules and regulations that I would like you to respect in return. Unfortunately we know how that turns out. When you’re so close to opening everyone’s eyes to reality that would cause a social change they’ll clip you, paint you as a madman erase you why ? Cause you’re weak and was speaking lies ? Or they knew this guy is powerful and that message is coming from such a good place they had to extinguish that light. Time and time again when Islam shows its beauty and the non violent way it sweeps hearts they wanna make it seem extreme and radical and this person has gone loco. Thank Allah for the Muhammad Ali’s the Malcom xs abduraouf cappernick. F this job I got a message I need to put out
I feel literally blessed to have watched him play. One of my earliest memories watching sports was with my dad and his friends the time Rauf dropped 53 points at Florida.They were all huge gator fans.I remember hearing "who is this guy!" "no way he hits another one of those" etc. By the games end, they were silent
🏀"Elegant & Praise worthy, most merciful, and most Kind."🏀 God Given Ability & Hard work. Thank you for the video. This!! was my favorite player as a kid. Wes,
A prayer for you, a prayer for me, a prayer for love and harmony, a prayer for light that all may see, a prayer that someday we'll all be free. Words of Gil Scott Herron
I'm so upset the NBA prefered politics and behind the scene work to miss a talent like this .. in additiom to that , I don't think Jordan would have won the second 3 in if mahmood was playing on a good team.. I feel sad
Man respect to this brother peace be upon you my brother love and respect and we will always be oppressed if America loved us give us our 40 acres and a mule
The elderly woman who said, I don’t think they should be playing the national anthem at Any sports game. I respect that. She’s 100% right. Abdul rauf is definitely one of my favorite players.
First, I must say that I have always been deeply impressed with Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf...his character, personality and intellect place far above many and the world needs more people like him. As a deep and abiding atheist, I of course cannot understand why such an intelligent man cannot see why the fruitless and pointless believe in a "god" isn't one of, if not THE, world's biggest motivators for violence, war and terror. Science is proving daily, if not hourly, that our planet and species was clear evolutionary and that evidence as compared to ancient "books" is overwhelming. But this commentary isn't about his or my belief in god...what I both respected Mahmoud for and was a little confused about during this film was the whole National Anthem event. I will say that when he was interviewed about why he didn't stand (he refused to stand for a country that stood for "oppression and tyranny"), I was right there with him...if you're white (as I am), put yourself into this scenario. You're a famous black personality (basketball player, public personality...etc)...you drive an upscale automobile because not only can you afford it, you naturally enjoy nice cars (I own a jet-black Challenger Scat Pack and am nowhere near famous). Now, you're driving in downtown anywhere at night and you suddenly see that ominous blue, red and white blinking light combination in your rear view mirror...having done nothing wrong, you're still getting pulled over. The officer approaches you with what is clearly an attitude of contempt, not knowing who you are, only that you are a black person driving an expensive car at night....you are being unduly racially profiled right there and that cop is ready to do anything to you at your slightest attempt to defend your self...THAT is what "oppression" is and not standing for the National Anthem because of it is something that I fully support.But then making it into an Islamic issue confused me...trust me, I got it during this fine film that finding Islam was a serious life saving event for Mahmoud. It gave him direction and purpose and those who defend religion will argue that that is the point. Argument aside, I still wish that he'd stuck with oppression and tyranny as his protest rather than introducing religion. I think organized religion is so ambiguous that anyone can find any reason within their "books" to protest anything should they look hard enough. I believe Mahmoud and yes, Colin Kaepernik had it right...there is plenty of room for raising racially charged issues because they are still out there, unfortunately, en mass. My belief is that because they still exist, more attention on national stages will bring awareness and stop scenarios like I mention above from occurring. Anyway, again, I salute Mahmoud as an inspiring and influential character and look at his humbleness as one that children should mimic.
First, I must say that I have always been deeply impressed with Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf...his character, personality and intellect place him far above the many who are, still to this day, forced to subjugate themselves to forces who are nothing more than racially driven. The world truly needs more like him...those that can be taught the real truths while depending upon them to uphold values and principals, however misguided they may be, As a deep and abiding atheist, I of course cannot understand why such an intelligent man cannot see why the fruitless and pointless believe in a "god" isn't one of, if not THE, world's biggest motivators for violence, war and terror. Science is proving daily, if not hourly, that our planet and species was clear evolutionary and that evidence as compared to ancient "books" is overwhelming. But this commentary isn't about his or my belief in god...what I both respected Mahmoud for and was a little confused about during this film was the whole National Anthem event. I will say that when he was interviewed about why he didn't stand (he refused to stand for a country that stood for "oppression and tyranny"), I was right there with him...if you're white (as I am), put yourself into this scenario. You're a famous black personality (basketball player, public personality...etc)...you drive an upscale automobile because not only can you afford it, you naturally enjoy nice cars (I own a jet-black Challenger Scat Pack and am nowhere near famous). Now, you're driving in downtown anywhere at night and you suddenly see that ominous blue, red and white blinking light combination in your rear view mirror...having done nothing wrong, you're still getting pulled over. The officer approaches you with what is clearly an attitude of contempt, not knowing who you are, only that you are a black person driving an expensive car at night....you are being unduly racially profiled right there and that cop is ready to do anything to you at your slightest attempt to defend your self...THAT is what "oppression" is and not standing for the National Anthem because of it is something that I fully support.But then making it into an Islamic issue confused me...trust me, I got it during this fine film that finding Islam was a serious life saving event for Mahmoud. It gave him direction and purpose and those who defend religion will argue that that is the point. Argument aside, I still wish that he'd stuck with oppression and tyranny as his protest rather than introducing religion. I think organized religion is so ambiguous that anyone can find any reason within their "books" to protest anything should they look hard enough. I believe Mahmoud and yes, Colin Kaepernik had it right...there is plenty of room for raising racially charged issues because they are still out there, unfortunately, en mass. My belief is that because they still exist, more attention on national stages will bring awareness and stop scenarios like I mention above from occurring. Anyway, again, I salute Mahmoud as an inspiring and influential character and look at his humbleness as one that children should mimic.
I appreciate your outlook on this. Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X, Abdul Jabbar, and Mahmoud Abdul Rauf are African-American athletes and civil rights activists who found their heritage and found the truth in Islam. True Islam is a beautiful religion. True historians can confirm that Islam has a rich history and much wisdom. You sound like a cool dude. I for one found this documentary very motivating as a young black Muslim man.
Salaam alaikum i was treated the same way but that dont mean im not doing my job because of my religious beliefs y'all don't make the Jews stand y'all don't make the Mormons stand for what they believe in because I'm Muslim and I believe in Islam I shouldn't have to stand just keep giving me my paycheck so I can keep doing my job Bismillah hamdullah Akbar peace be unto you my Brother
abdul-rauf is a hero... I have so much respect for my brother Abdull Rauf mashaallah
he is a fuckin loser!
May Allah accept his good deeds and forgive his sins. What a good man!
And just What "sins" has he committed that You are aware of?
Sins could come in so many different forms, there’s countless ways as to how you could commit a sin and that’s why we moslems always as God for forgiveness.
All humans make sins or mistakes. Therefore we all need Allah's mercy and forgiveness.@@leonardguillory2511
How is America a symobol of freedom if they don't allow someone to express their believes without harming anyone?
Bilal Khan there is no symbool of freedom in America
Because to believe in America is to want death and destruction
America was built on racism and oppression that's the unspoken truth of the how the British behaved. Yes he got paid 2 mil a year but master made that ten fold. If it wasn't for the black man the NBA would fold. If every black in the league would have stood behind Mahmoud we wouldn't be having this discussion.
Something money can't buy..... integrity and character
TechCore.
AAAH😎.....!!, YEAH........!!, YO.................!!, ℹ️ ABSOLUTELY 💯% PERCENT AGREE WITH YOU & ℹ️ WILL INCLUDE FREEDOM & PEACE✌️T👀...!!, THAT MONEY💰 CAN’T BUY FAM😎🇺🇸
He is a brat.
You bring tears to my eyes with that statement. 😪
@@bilhas52 a vicious religion
“People fear what they don't understand and hate what they can't conquer.”
― Andrew Smith
Amen!❤️
What an awesome documentary! It's a shame that the NBA has practically erased him from the books. I'm 46 so I remember his journey. I sat and watched this with my 14 year old who had NEVER even heard of Mahmoud. What a pleasure to have this footage available for younger kids coming up.
because he is a loser who is anti Christ!
Best shooter that has ever lived.. Gr8 character. One love.. G.O.A.T
Shoutout to Jalen Rose for speaking good on his behalf
i salute u bro, real man cry, tears in my eyes, allah bless u with his meecy
never been accustomed to using the word hero because I always feel like my father has been THE MAN in my life. But as a young kid growing up in Louisiana when he was at LSU I was the hugest admirer of his talent and gifts. Always one of my favorites.
I have nothing but respect for MAR.
thank you - spread the word please!!
I do believe he was a better player then MJ and for sure he was a better man! God bless
I know him personally from Gulfport Mississippi where we played basketball at Herbert Wilson gym. He has always been a straight up guy in my life. I definitely will RIDE with on what ever he believes... 1 Luv My brother...
Kane, so did I. A great player. A better person.
So basically they proved his point as far as being oppressive and with tyranny bye ostracizing him from the NBA and burning down his house there you go!
All praises belongs to Allah, the most merciful, the most great. As long as you have Allah swt on your side, you have everything!
Chris Jackson, Abdul Mahmoud Rauf has been a large inspiration to my life since I've first heard about him as a high school phenomenon. His love of family and community, his strive for perfection, his generosity is an inspiration for all. Brother, please continue to live out the most high's plan for you. Besides being a tremendous athlete, you're a great human being. May Allah bless you and your family for your awareness, dedication and values. All you can do is be who you were destined to be.
HE IS TRULY AN INSPIRATION. THIS IS WHAT YOU CALL A "TRUE" MUSLIM. UNRELENTING AND FEARLESS IN HIS LOVE FOR ALLAH, ISLAM, AND BASKETBALL. A GREAT DOCUMENTARY... IT HAS TRULY UPLIFTED MY SOUL TO HEAR AND SEE THE STRUGGLES AND COURAGE OF THIS GREAT MAN. MASHA' ALLAH. AND MAY GOD BLESS AMERICA, THE LAND THAT LETS US PRAY TO, ACT, AND SPEAK AS WE WISH. PEACE & LOVE.
I played with this guy in a gym in Gulfport a few years ago all I can say is truly amazing
This is a masterpiece. It means a lot especially currently with Colin Kaepernick situation as well as how the muslim are being portrayed by the media. Thank you for the upload!
Man of God. When he use to come to Detroit we would discuss the tenants of Islam. May Allah guide us all in the COVID times.
Masha-Allah, may Allah bless him and his family ameen.
soon as I seen Kap not stand for anthem I thought of chris jackson...wicked jump shot, followed him from LSU...good hearted person, shame how the nba n public treated him...but he stood up for his beliefs n I respect dat...
Yet, they praise someone and prop him up for not doing anything but all talk.
Abdul Rauf sat because of religious beliefs.
Please don't compare the two. One was for a purpose, the other was for profit.
Almost 20 years later and the problem of injustice is still here
Dave Zirin, Colin Kaepernick and Mahmoud Abdul Rauf bought me here.
Very glad to hear that, thank you for watching - spread the word please!!
Glad this video is here. I remember his protest and how badly and un-american he was treated.
We are glad you support it/us, thanks for taking the time to write a comment, please spread the word!
Everyone, calm down people say we can solve situations in a nice matter. Allah says to be nice to everyone
A true legend, in every way. And I went to UF when he torched us for 53...
Love this brother then and now and will always appreciate the stand he took.
Thanks for the upload! Really enjoyed watching!
Glad you enjoyed watching it & sharing your thoughts!
Subhanallah what a inspiration
Rafli ansyah he really is :)
This brother is sincere. May Allah reward him!!!
May Allah grant him the best of both worlds , Ameen !!!
❤ this great black leader who took a stand for what he believed and payed a piece for
It and was kicked out of the
NBA as a basketball player!
Dr.tyrone of Chester PA
Salaam Beloved, Beautiful journey to righteousness...APDTA!!..Bless Unity
May he succeed in all his endevours!
may Allah always bless my brother A.Rauf
mashallah such an inspiration. one of the forgotten legends of the game an role model. to people around the world. ..
Thanks so much for your positive comment - it is much appreciated, please help us spread the word by sharing with ppl
WhatHappened2MahmoudAbdul-Rauf?
will do inshallah . do you speak to or know Mahmoud Abdul Rauf?
We do - please see what-happened-to-mahmoud-abdul-rauf.com/#contact where you can send an email directly to him!
WhatHappened2MahmoudAbdul-Rauf?
WOW THATS awsome i will check it out. thanks so much appreciate your help
Much love and respect to you my beloved Brother Mahmoud........
The G.O.A.T In my eyes...couldn't stop him..Pure Shooter...gifted talent..
Another example of how 'Freedom of Speech' may be Free --- but it comes with a price! At the time of Chris' name change to Mahmoud, I had just returned from the initial "Desert Shield/Desert Storm" operation. And I had no problem with his not standing for the National Anthem! I have more of a problem with citizens and businesses flying the flag incorrectly or displaying it, raised at night without it being lighted! But I remember at the time thinking about Rauf, and saying, if he doesn't want to stand, why doesn't he just go to the locker room --- pray and do his beliefs --- and return when the song is over.
But young folks, when you take a stand on something --- there are dues you gotta pay, and unfortunately for him . . . he had to pay them. I never knew his future home was burned, but I am not surprised. And I don't think he was black-balled, it's just that owners didn't want to have the narrative of their team being about him or problems --- they are in the entertainment business.
I don't know if Colin was aware of this man, but he should have been told about it. But I do know this --- these men may have lost out on millions, but I guarantee and the end of the day --- they are looking at themselves in the mirror and saying --- "I did what I felt was right." And you can't hate 'em for that!
John Salley always on point.
Dude stuck up for his beliefs and there may not have understood Islam or wanted to at that time , but they can’t deny every era had a powerful Muslim that said “no that’s not alright with me” and I think that is beautiful. Even if you’re a Christian or whoever if there’s something that doesn’t sit well with you and you’re not causing chaos or encouraging violence then what’s so wrong with speaking your mind your side or even telling the media or your company that you work for hey I’m human I come with my own rules and regulations that I would like you to respect in return. Unfortunately we know how that turns out. When you’re so close to opening everyone’s eyes to reality that would cause a social change they’ll clip you, paint you as a madman erase you why ? Cause you’re weak and was speaking lies ? Or they knew this guy is powerful and that message is coming from such a good place they had to extinguish that light. Time and time again when Islam shows its beauty and the non violent way it sweeps hearts they wanna make it seem extreme and radical and this person has gone loco. Thank Allah for the Muhammad Ali’s the Malcom xs abduraouf cappernick. F this job I got a message I need to put out
thank you for uploading this great documentary!
thank you for watching - spread the word please!!
respect for you brother mahmoud. not all muslim has a bravery like you did.
How can you know?
I feel literally blessed to have watched him play. One of my earliest memories watching sports was with my dad and his friends the time Rauf dropped 53 points at Florida.They were all huge gator fans.I remember hearing "who is this guy!" "no way he hits another one of those" etc. By the games end, they were silent
Why Mahmoud mom, lowkey remind me of Tupac mom?😄😎
Exactly!!!!!
The same
Huge respect for MAR as a Nuggets fan, baller on the court as well as trusting his beliefs 💪
legend
U stand for the anthem, he stands for what he believes. America and self righteous Americans practice what you preach.💯✊🏿
I feel like a 'richer' man for knowing Mahmoud's story. Thank you for sharing it in this brief account. Great for Kwame to interview him.
this made me tear
Inspiring, 1000% respect for this man. Thanks for the upload!
Beautiful documentary. Somehow documentaries from the 90s always have a special place in my heart. #90sBaby
He was a great player I support this
🏀"Elegant & Praise worthy, most merciful, and most Kind."🏀 God Given Ability & Hard work. Thank you for the video.
This!! was my favorite player as a kid.
Wes,
A prayer for you, a prayer for me, a prayer for love and harmony, a prayer for light that all may see, a prayer that someday we'll all be free.
Words of Gil Scott Herron
Chris Jackson you are my hero thank you brother assalamualaika peace to you brother keep the religion going
I'm so upset the NBA prefered politics and behind the scene work to miss a talent like this .. in additiom to that , I don't think Jordan would have won the second 3 in if mahmood was playing on a good team.. I feel sad
Masha Allah.
And the home of the brave- good job Mahmoud 🙏
this was a good film damn near uncanny compared to current events
Subhanallah, this documentary made me cry
you are a great man mr. rauf, the media and the reporter who started the issue should have his conscience bother him for the rest of his life
What an honourable man. most of us would fold under such pressure.
Ilhumdulilah May god bless Mahmoud, history repeating its self with kapernik, such a twisted world we live in
Dijal at work
Wow. I'm watching this on Aug 21, 2017. He said it was Aug 22, when he decided
A sign ;)
Amazing!
Now he on the Big3 doing what he does best! #SALUTE
My new favorite player all time
This Brother was my first introduction to Islam. I hated him.
All these years later, especially as I prepare to become Muslim, I love him fully.
i wont stand for it either!
42:41 The absolute best part of the whole documentary.
LOVE THIS LADY!!!! Don't gv a f#!**
Thank you, infinitely.
Thank you! Brother.🙏🏾
Just a lot of respect for this kind of human skill and force/strenght...
Thankful for this video. He’s one of my favorite players ever
whoever did the audio on this is a genius
👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾A great story, what a Human being🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾
🔴I grew up watching him play in N.B.A IN THE 90S SPECIALLY WHEN THEY BEAT THE SEATTLE SUPER SONICS IN GAME 7 .
Asking kids about this is tasteless
GOAT point guard. Better than Curry.
Nothing comes before The Most High NOTHING
Happy to meet this guy at my hometown tonight.
My man!!!...boi did he have game!!!...I witnessed it!!!
Mahmoud ...a true héro...love you brother
peace, love and respect
Man respect to this brother peace be upon you my brother love and respect and we will always be oppressed if America loved us give us our 40 acres and a mule
The elderly woman who said, I don’t think they should be playing the national anthem at Any sports game. I respect that. She’s 100% right. Abdul rauf is definitely one of my favorite players.
Mahmoud is our brother
Should be hall of fame
The change is called growth!
This man ate, slept, and breathed basketball.
This man should at the less be able to be on 2k he was a great basketball player and a great human human being
Edward Bishop he is on 2k 93-94 nuggets. He goes by his Muslim name
May god bless and keep you always
Mahmoud Abdul Rauf will be remembered more when usa tyranny falls.
First, I must say that I have always been deeply impressed with Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf...his character, personality and intellect place far above many and the world needs more people like him. As a deep and abiding atheist, I of course cannot understand why such an intelligent man cannot see why the fruitless and pointless believe in a "god" isn't one of, if not THE, world's biggest motivators for violence, war and terror. Science is proving daily, if not hourly, that our planet and species was clear evolutionary and that evidence as compared to ancient "books" is overwhelming. But this commentary isn't about his or my belief in god...what I both respected Mahmoud for and was a little confused about during this film was the whole National Anthem event. I will say that when he was interviewed about why he didn't stand (he refused to stand for a country that stood for "oppression and tyranny"), I was right there with him...if you're white (as I am), put yourself into this scenario. You're a famous black personality (basketball player, public personality...etc)...you drive an upscale automobile because not only can you afford it, you naturally enjoy nice cars (I own a jet-black Challenger Scat Pack and am nowhere near famous). Now, you're driving in downtown anywhere at night and you suddenly see that ominous blue, red and white blinking light combination in your rear view mirror...having done nothing wrong, you're still getting pulled over. The officer approaches you with what is clearly an attitude of contempt, not knowing who you are, only that you are a black person driving an expensive car at night....you are being unduly racially profiled right there and that cop is ready to do anything to you at your slightest attempt to defend your self...THAT is what "oppression" is and not standing for the National Anthem because of it is something that I fully support.But then making it into an Islamic issue confused me...trust me, I got it during this fine film that finding Islam was a serious life saving event for Mahmoud. It gave him direction and purpose and those who defend religion will argue that that is the point. Argument aside, I still wish that he'd stuck with oppression and tyranny as his protest rather than introducing religion. I think organized religion is so ambiguous that anyone can find any reason within their "books" to protest anything should they look hard enough. I believe Mahmoud and yes, Colin Kaepernik had it right...there is plenty of room for raising racially charged issues because they are still out there, unfortunately, en mass. My belief is that because they still exist, more attention on national stages will bring awareness and stop scenarios like I mention above from occurring. Anyway, again, I salute Mahmoud as an inspiring and influential character and look at his humbleness as one that children should mimic.
First, I must say that I have always been deeply impressed with Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf...his character, personality and intellect place him far above the many who are, still to this day, forced to subjugate themselves to forces who are nothing more than racially driven. The world truly needs more like him...those that can be taught the real truths while depending upon them to uphold values and principals, however misguided they may be, As a deep and abiding atheist, I of course cannot understand why such an intelligent man cannot see why the fruitless and pointless believe in a "god" isn't one of, if not THE, world's biggest motivators for violence, war and terror. Science is proving daily, if not hourly, that our planet and species was clear evolutionary and that evidence as compared to ancient "books" is overwhelming. But this commentary isn't about his or my belief in god...what I both respected Mahmoud for and was a little confused about during this film was the whole National Anthem event. I will say that when he was interviewed about why he didn't stand (he refused to stand for a country that stood for "oppression and tyranny"), I was right there with him...if you're white (as I am), put yourself into this scenario. You're a famous black personality (basketball player, public personality...etc)...you drive an upscale automobile because not only can you afford it, you naturally enjoy nice cars (I own a jet-black Challenger Scat Pack and am nowhere near famous). Now, you're driving in downtown anywhere at night and you suddenly see that ominous blue, red and white blinking light combination in your rear view mirror...having done nothing wrong, you're still getting pulled over. The officer approaches you with what is clearly an attitude of contempt, not knowing who you are, only that you are a black person driving an expensive car at night....you are being unduly racially profiled right there and that cop is ready to do anything to you at your slightest attempt to defend your self...THAT is what "oppression" is and not standing for the National Anthem because of it is something that I fully support.But then making it into an Islamic issue confused me...trust me, I got it during this fine film that finding Islam was a serious life saving event for Mahmoud. It gave him direction and purpose and those who defend religion will argue that that is the point. Argument aside, I still wish that he'd stuck with oppression and tyranny as his protest rather than introducing religion. I think organized religion is so ambiguous that anyone can find any reason within their "books" to protest anything should they look hard enough. I believe Mahmoud and yes, Colin Kaepernik had it right...there is plenty of room for raising racially charged issues because they are still out there, unfortunately, en mass. My belief is that because they still exist, more attention on national stages will bring awareness and stop scenarios like I mention above from occurring. Anyway, again, I salute Mahmoud as an inspiring and influential character and look at his humbleness as one that children should mimic.
I appreciate your outlook on this. Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X, Abdul Jabbar, and Mahmoud Abdul Rauf are African-American athletes and civil rights activists who found their heritage and found the truth in Islam. True Islam is a beautiful religion. True historians can confirm that Islam has a rich history and much wisdom. You sound like a cool dude. I for one found this documentary very motivating as a young black Muslim man.
It was such a pleasure to watch him at LSU.
Best college play I've ever seen. Saw him play while I was at the University of Florida and he dropped, like, 45 on us.
Anither guy from UF said 51. Wow.
Salaam alaikum i was treated the same way but that dont mean im not doing my job because of my religious beliefs y'all don't make the Jews stand y'all don't make the Mormons stand for what they believe in because I'm Muslim and I believe in Islam I shouldn't have to stand just keep giving me my paycheck so I can keep doing my job Bismillah hamdullah Akbar peace be unto you my Brother
thank you for this
Jesse Jackson a sell-out
Yepp , he sold his life to Allah to go to paradise :).