From Allies To Accomplices: Fighting Racism Within Our Own Communities with Remaz Khalaleyal

As Muslims, we have no other choice but to stand alongside our Black brothers and sisters.

In Ep. 18 of Season 2, we sit down with Remaz Khalaleyal to discuss the recent murder of George Floyd at the hands of the Minneapolis Police, stereotypes and racism that exist within our own non-black community and the absolute need to go beyond the hashtags to actually make a difference.

George Floyd wasn’t the first Black man to be murdered at the hands of police brutality, but we are calling for his death to be the last. In this much needed conversation, Remaz opens up about how she’s taking care of her mental state following the news of the brutal killing.

It seems like the whole world is finally waking up to the calls of justice and equality that has been coming from the Black community for centuries, but much more work still needs to be done.

We talk about the need to have open and honest discussions surrounding racism within our own communities, homes and workplaces. Yes, those conversations  may be difficult and awkward, but that shouldn’t deter you from doing so.

As Muslims it is our duty to stand alongside the Black community. Allah gave you a voice to speak out against injustice and wrongdoing. Use it, but use it wisely. Remaz explains why more people need to stop and listen, before becoming the echo of white supremacy. Our role right now, as non-black Muslims, is to stand by their side, not in front of them.

How many times have you heard someone say, “ I don’t see color”?

Now although this statement might be made with good intentions, it is a prime example of just how powerful words are, and why we need to choose ours carefully. Remaz says hearing statements like this only make the black community feel devalued, unheard and as if a part of their identity is being stripped away,

Black men and women are taught at such an earlier age to dislike the color of their skin. Whether they are at home watching tv and see a commercial for skin-whitening products or shopping at Sephora and never finding a foundation shade relatively close to their own- the internalized hate is growing. Yet, their white-counterparts spend a fortune tanning their skin, plumping up their lips and braiding their hair. Remaz talks about her own experience as she learned how to love and appreciate the skin she is in.

So, you posted a picture on social media using #BLM, now what?

Our activism has to go beyond a 4 by 5 Instagram square. You have to actually follow through with that call to action. Remaz outlines how we can make a difference in our community to help end these horrendous attacks on innocent black men and women.

This is a revolution. When your kids study about the 2020 protest in their future history books and asked what you did to help, don’t let them down. Speak up, show up and support.

Enjoy and remember to follow us on Instagram: @unsweetenedandunfiltered

Follow Remaz on Instagram: @reresolve_