On The Square EP1- Being Muslim on Turtle Island

On The Square EP1- Being Muslim on Turtle Island

Author: Arab Studies Institute November 8, 2021 Duration: 56:05

In this episode our host, Dr. Su'ad Abdul Khabeer talks with Siddeeqah Sharif Fichman an Afro-Native Muslim and community advocate and Hazel Gómez, a faith-based community organizer, about Being Muslim on Turtle Island. This deep discussion digs into questions such as What would make a Muslim a settler or indigenous to North America? How might settler thinking shape how we live as Muslims today? What are the responsibilities of Muslims, as a whole, to the indigenous inhabitants of the Americas?

During the conversation, Hazel reads the poem "Child of the Americas" by Aurora Levins Morales (shared below) and Siddeqah introduces us to the song "Bilalian Man" by Sister Khalifah Abdul Rahman.* To the question, if Black Islam had a theme song what would it be? Hazel chose "Allah" by Khalil Ismail and Siddeeqah chose "Bilalian Man" as her Black Muslim theme song. The song excerpt in the episode is sung by Siddeeqah's mother, Sister Sabreen Sharif and full lyrics are below. Not sure what Bilalian means? Check out this article by Precious Rasheeda Muhammad. Also be sure to check out the music of Afro-Native Muslim performing artist Maimouna Youseff (Mumu Fresh).

*Siddeeqah misspoke in the episode and this particular song is by Sister Khalifah Abdul Rahman.

On the Square theme music was created by Fanatik OnBeats.

Artwork was created by Scheme of Things Graphics.

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Courtesy of Maydan Podcast.


Each month, Status/الوضع assembles a vital audio journal from the Arab Studies Institute, moving beyond headlines to explore the deeper currents shaping the region and its global connections. This isn't about quick takes; it's a sustained, critical conversation built on ground-level reporting and scholarly insight. You'll hear extended dialogues with analysts, activists, and artists, alongside dispatches recorded where events unfold. The tone ranges from sharp, informed commentary to pointed satire, reflecting the complex realities it examines. The podcast deliberately blends genres-interviews feel like revealing conversations, reports carry narrative depth, and commentary is interwoven with readings of essential texts. It’s a collaborative project that values independence, offering a platform for nuanced perspectives often sidelined in mainstream discourse. By engaging with culture, politics, and society as intertwined forces, Status/الوضع provides listeners with a more complete, challenging, and human picture of the Middle East and its place in the world. Tune in for a monthly installment of substance, where critical thought meets audio storytelling.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Status/الوضع
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