Date: Saturday, June 4, 2016
For Immediate Release
Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Center Remembers Muhammad Ali, Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi rajioon-from Allah we come To Allah we Return
On behalf on The Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Center we extend our condolences to the family of Muhammad Ali for their loss and to all of humanity for the loss of a great humanitarian.
We thank Allah for Muhammad Ali’s leadership in breaking barriers of faith by his public affirmation of the faith of Islam. His public witness continues to be a source of moral strength for millions around the world.
Muhammad Ali was blessed with an indefatigable spirit and a defiant will to fight not only in the boxing ring but Ali also won “by decision” in the US Supreme Court his freedom to return to the ring after being discriminated against due to his conscientious objection to the Vietnam War. He would go on to reclaim the world heavyweight crown and remains the only man in history to be a three-time lineal Champion.
His face is among the most recognized faces on earth while bearing the world’s most common name, Muhammad. Muhammad Ali’s work as a humanitarian and a champion for equality has been carrying the torch of hope around the globe is a thing of legend.
His courage in the face of his illness is a witness to those struggling with any physical challenges to continue to fight.
Born at a time of racial segregation in America, he was mentored by a caring man in his community and through his hard work, disciple and work ethic he became and will remains among men, “The Greatest”. He was a man who loved people, all people. He had a quick wit even as the young, brash, boxer from Louisville, KY, Cassius Marcellus Clay.
I will share just one of the many quotes he has left behind to guide us, “The service you do for others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.”
May Allah bless him with the best of his deeds in this life and grant him the “greatest” place in paradise among the righteous. Ameen امين
Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Center, Imam Johari Abdul-Malik
[email protected] 703-536-1030 (O), 202-345-5233 (cell)
– Building Bridges Through Faith –