Introducing the Philly Muslim Freedom Fund

2021.4.27 pmff.jpg

I spent Ramadan 2018 inside a penitentiary. The Muslim chaplain at California State Prison, Solano had organized an Eid, and it remains one of the most significant experiences of my life. 

I was already familiar with Rikers and navigating a carceral maze. At the time, I worked with justice-involved youth, and Eid inside Solano deepened my understanding of prison.

I had travelled with another volunteer, and he reflected: “Brothers filed into the chaplain’s hall, and I was humbled by their gratitude. I saw a deep brotherhood and community. One that cared for each other beyond the walls.”

Brothers were hungry for relationships with folks on the outside. According to the chaplain: “Considering my studies about recidivism and the positive effects of community, I thought it would be powerful for people coming in and especially inmates for strengthening their connection to a larger community.”

Two months later, I moved to Philadelphia and its Islamic character was immediately evident. I reconnected with a brother, a long-time resident, and he acclimated me to the community. Inspired by Solano, we identified a need for Muslim-centered reentry services.

The police murders of George Floyd and Walter Wallace Jr sparked waves of protests. The uprisings catalyzed our organizing and fueled more reentry discussions. We’ve since devoted much energy towards building relationships and understanding the landscape.

As we approach another Eid, I give thanks to Philadelphia, the brothers at Solano, and the Muslim chaplain. Most of all, I give thanks to Allah (swt). 

In Ramadan 2021, we are launching Philly Muslim Freedom Fund, a grassroots organization dedicated to uplifting Muslims oppressed by the carceral state. 


We need your input. Join us through letter-writing, legislative advocacy, political education, and fundraising! Let’s move together towards a vision rooted in our Islamic ethos of social justice.

By Imrul Mazid and Abbas Naqvi, Philly Muslim Freedom Fund (PMFF)

Logo credit: Komal Zehrah

Logo credit: Komal Zehrah

Previous
Previous

Reflections / Actions: The Last 10 Days of Ramadan

Next
Next

Inaayah: Supporting Migrant, Refugee, and Displaced Communities