Take Another Look with Ashahed M. Muhammad

The Final Call Newspaper in the United Kingdom!

2009-11-24T12:45:00.010-06:00

(Cover from the FCN UK/International Edition, Vol. 29 #4)

What's going on in the United Kingdom?

The volume of email from the United Kingdom is increasing, which clearly comes as a result of our UK/International edition, which also reaches Africa and the West Indies. Here are some news briefs from "across the pond."

British man fights extradition in KBR bribe case
LONDON—A British lawyer accused in the United States of helping a former Halliburton Co. subsidiary bribe Nigerian officials for construction projects has begun his fight against extradition in a London court.
Federal prosecutors in Houston, Texas say 61-year-old Jeffrey Tesler helped steer bribe money from Kellogg, Brown & Root LLC to officials of the Nigerian government to win more than $6 billion in contracts.
Tesler's lawyer argued that he should not be extradited because the alleged crimes did not have a substantial link to the U.S. Attorney Bill Clegg says Tesler operated from London, through a company registered in Gibraltar, and the alleged bribes were paid into Swiss bank accounts.

Thatcher sweeps back to Downing Street
LONDON—Former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher is returning to London's Downing Street for good—in the form of a portrait installed at the country's official leader's residence.Thatcher, the British leader from 1979 to 1990, joined Prime Minister Gordon Brown and David Cameron, a successor to Thatcher as Conservative Party leader, at Downing Street on Nov. 23 to unveil the work.
Brown's spokesman Simon Lewis says artist Richard Stone's painting will be displayed in a first floor lobby.
Thatcher is the first living lawmaker to be honored with a portrait at Downing Street. Photographs of all modern prime ministers line the residence's main staircase, but only two ex-leaders have portraits on display: Winston Churchill and David Lloyd George.

UK police refer 4 British lawmakers to prosecutors
LONDON—British police say they've referred the cases of four of the country's lawmakers to prosecutors after an investigation into lavish expenses claimed by some members of Parliament.
Revelations that lawmakers manipulated expense rules to spend thousands of pounds on home improvements outraged voters and raised questions over the legality of some of lawmakers' financial dealings.
Scotland Yard said Nov. 23that evidence relating to four unidentified members of both of Britain's Houses of Parliament have been sent to prosecutors.
It was not immediately clear whether Britain's Crown Prosecution Service would press charges against the lawmakers named in the files. A call seeking comment from the service was not immediately returned.

New Book Identifies 500 Most Influential Muslims

WASHINGTON, D.C.—A new book listing the 500 most influential Muslims has just been released by The Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Center (in Jordan) in concert with Georgetown University’s Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding, reports The Muslim Observer. The book recognizes scholars, women, youth, philanthropists, scientists, as well as leading figures in the arts and media. Seventy-two Muslims from the United States and thirty-two from the United Kingdom made the list. The book is available online to view in its entirety at http://www.rissc.johttp://www.rissc.jo/.

(Compiled from the Associated Press and other online news services.)

Cartoon of the Day: U.S."Aid" to Pakistan

2009-11-23T20:01:00.002-06:00

U.S. "Aid" to Pakistan by Carlos Latuff

A Kwame Kilpatrick interview snippet

2009-11-16T12:24:00.007-06:00

This picture was taken right before we began the interview on Nov. 4, 2009. It was the first interview Mr. Kilpatrick had granted since leaving office in late 2008. (Photo: Tim Sixx)

A Snippet of My Interview with the former Mayor of Detroit, Kwame Malik Kilpatrick

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylRx2w1y9MI

Imam Luqman A. Abdullah's son Omar Regan speaks at Nov. 5 demonstration

2009-11-07T11:43:00.013-06:00

Filled with emotion, Omar Regan, Imam Luqman Ameen Abdullah’s 34-year-old son, challenged the media to tell the truth about who his father really was and challenged law enforcement to reflect on their own humanity at a rally in front of the McNamara Federal Building in Detroit, MI on Nov. 5. Another of the imam's sons, Jamil Carswell looks on. (Photo Ashahed M. Muhammad)

Listen to his comments here:

http://www.finalcall.com/blogs/Omar_Regan_2009_11_05.mp3

Feel free to download to your iPod or share the file and/or link with others.

Obama's Presidency: Living Up To The Promise? (FinalCall.com)

2009-11-04T12:58:00.007-06:00

The latest edition of The Final Call asks the question: "What Happened to Hope?"

In this edition, you will find the following:

- The latest information on the alleged gang-rape of a 15-year old White girl in Richmond, CA, with comments from some high school students who are classmates of the alleged victim.

- The latest information regarding the case of Imam Luqman Ameen Abdullah who was gunned down by the FBI last week during a raid on a warehouse just outside of Detroit, MI.

- A One-on-One interview with the UK representative of the Nation of Islam, Hilary Muhammad.

Native American Elder, Chief Arvol Looking Horse speaks concerning the deaths in Sedona, AZ, along with YoNasDa LoneWolf's perspective on the misuse of the sacred sweat lodge ceremony.

....and much, much more!

Queen YoNasDa's Debut "God.Love & Music" - You've heard nothing like it.

2009-10-28T15:29:00.007-05:00

QUEEN YONASDA

Pronounced (Yo-Naja-Ha)

Queen YoNasDa (pronounced Yo-Naja-Ha) is the epitome of energy as a hip hop artist, curator, and activist. Without a doubt, there is an imbalance occurring in hip hop where female emcees have been silenced. Her strong presence is bringing femcees with a message back to the forefront of music. Her musical style encompasses an eclectic mix of wisdom, grooves, catchy hooks, and is sure to reach the masses.

"I'm not here to beat people in the head with a sermon, I'm here to tell the truth," she said. This lyrical queen has completed her debut album, "God.Love and Music" featuring Cappadonna, Dr. Ben Chavis Muhammad, Keith Murray, M-Eighty and others with production by Cookin Soul, New York West, CR Productions, K-Boog and others. She speaks and performs across the United States promoting unity, education and respect for all cultures. With roots reaching back to Native American tradition and the Nation of Islam, where her mother, a Lakota (Sioux) and her father, a hustler and a fine artist hailing from Brooklyn, this queen knows the blues all to well, but never let it dampen her spirits.

The two met in 1975 during the time in which her mother worked as a public relations director for Muhammad Ali. Shortly afterwards the two met they got married. YoNasDa was born during the historic moment of “The Longest Walk,” which took place in protest to anti- Indian legislation. Her mother, Oglala-Lakota participated in the 3,000-mile trek which began at San Francisco Bays Alcatraz Island and culminated on the White House grounds.

YoNasDa was conceived there in Washington, D.C, April 1978, one of only two children born during this historic journey and a place that would later become for her a Mecca of sorts.

Due to her father's hustling, it led to his imprisonment and a aiding and abetting charge for her mother, who served time in a Fort Worth, Texas, prison. During this time Minister Louis Farrakhan stepped in, moved YoNasDa and her brother to Chicago, adopting them into his family. "Without Minister Farrakhan or grandpa as I call him, and the whole Farrakhan family, my brother and I would've been caught up in the foster care system. I can't even imagine the woman I would have been if it wasn't for the Farrakhan family. God is beautiful in his design,” she reflects so candidly.

As a young child YoNasDa stood by her mother’s and grandfather's side speaking to the hip hop nation. She takes her responsibility seriously by using her music as a mouth piece to educate and uplift young people. As a mother she sees what music can do and understands the power of the spoken word. YoNasDa has a mission and is going full throttle. She is the national director for the Indigenous Nations Alliance. This truth-teller is a published writer who has a column in the Final Call Newspaper and is now bringing her artistry to the world. To YoNasDa "Queen" is not just a word, it is a calling and she's rising to the occasion. Visit her on line at www.queenyonasda.com.

The Kuala Lumpur Foundation to Criminalise War has begun their conference in Malaysia

2009-10-28T10:58:00.010-05:00

The Kuala Lumpur Foundation to Criminalise War, led by Dr. Mahathir Mohammad, has kicked off their three day conference.

Featured speakers during the event which runs 10/28 through 10/31 include:

- British MP & leader of the Viva Palestina human rights movement George Galloway

- Former U.S. member of Congress & outspoken human rights activist Cynthia McKinney

- Former UN Assistant Secretary General Denis Haliday

- Muhammad Umar, chairman of the UK-based Ramadhan Foundation

Dr. Mahathir Mohammad's remarks as prepared for delivery at today's opening session can be read here:

http://www.criminalisewar.org/blog/

Extensive coverage of the conference can be found at:

http://www.mathaba.net

America's Celebrity Obsessed Culture is examined in this week's Final Call

2009-10-26T17:50:00.006-05:00

WWW.FINALCALL.COM

America's celebrity obsessed culture is examined in this week's edition of The Final Call.

My Reflections on the Million Man March & Holy Day of Atonement

2009-10-16T07:54:00.005-05:00

I was at the Million Man March in Washington D.C. on October 16, 1995. It was one of the greatest days of my life, and an experience that I will never forget.

As I reflect on the the wonderful spirit of that day, I am reminded of how hopeful and inspired I felt on that day, along with many others. I know there are some that would say that there was no programmatic thrust or agenda, and those people see it from their perspective. Their minds may be dominated by a particular socio-political leaning or some other type of ideology, but to me that is not what the day should be judged by. In fact, the day should not be judged at all, it should be remembered as a powerful demonstration of unity and brotherhood that has never been seen on the planet.

Thank you Minister Farrakhan.

The Million Man March had a special meaning to me, because in a little over a month, my first child, a daughter would be born. I promised God on that day, that I would always be in my daughter's life as a provider, protector and guide. Then, five years later I was blessed with a son, which gave me with the opportunity to continue to make my word bond. Those beautiful children are blessings from God, and wonderfully effective reminders of the promise I made to Him on that day.

Another memorable aspect of the Million Man March involves the wonderful acts kindness demonstrated by those who opened their homes for people to stay there during the Million Man March and those who cooked food for the Black men who made the pilgrimage. Those stories are everywhere!

I always think about the good brother in Phoenix, who was unable to attend the Million Man March himself, but gave me a plane ticket to Washington D.C., so I did not have to buy one. That act alone is a good example of the powerful spirit that was generated by the idea of the Million Man March. That brother...he knows who he is...I always pray that he will receive continuous blessings as a result of that act of kindness. I am sure that there are hundreds, if not thousands of stories similar to my own.

I also want to take the time to remember and thank the Black Women who supported us, encouraged us, and worked to make the Million Man March and Holy Day of Atonement a success. It could not have been done without the Black Woman.

Thank you Black Woman.

The Holy Day of Atonement is now a part of our reality and we must continue to make good on the pledge we gave that day. Obviously, if you look around at the conditions that exist within our communities, there is still work to do, but as long as we are alive, let's be found striving to make our word bond. It is time to fulfill the prophecy written of in Isaiah 61:4.

So, as I type this from my hotel room in Memphis, Tennessee as we prepare to commemorate the 14th anniversary of the Million Man March and Day of Atonement, let the spirit drive us to do the work.

By the way, anyone who speaks out negatively against the Million Man March, or in some way attempts to downplay and diminish its importance is displaying the characteristics of one who is an enemy to the Black Nation.

Obama: A Nobel Peace Prize, Health Care, Afghanistan &... LGBTs???

2009-10-11T09:36:00.025-05:00

At the same time President Obama is being honored after winning the Nobel Peace Prize, he is dealing with an inherited military conflict in Afghanistan which appears to be dragging his administration further into an increasingly expensive foreign war at a time when the domestic economy is in a disastrous free fall.

Ironically, continued conflict in Afghanistan threatens to further inflame world opinion perhaps squandering much of the good will generated after Obama's election, which resulted in him winning the prestigious award in the first place.

On the foreign policy front, drug lords, warlords, death and corruption are still the order of the day in Afghanistan and the presidential election results are still unknown. There are still deadly bombings occurring daily in parts of Iraq and he has failed to persuade America's "sacrosanct" partner Israel to stop creating barriers to peace and to put down their bloody and paralyzing weapons.

On the domestic front, in the midst of partisan rancor and despite the photo op involving doctors on the White House lawn last week, Obama's fight for health care reform is far from over.

And did I mention his promised closure of Guantanamo Bay? Despite Obama saying it would be closed by the end of January 2010, Army Brigadier General Timothy Lake was just named the new deputy commander of the U.S. joint military force that runs the prison which holds over 220 suspected terrorists. He was given a one-year term. You do the math.

With all that being said, clearly President Obama's Nobel Peace Prize was a very significant symbolic act marking the end of the punishing eight years of the Bush, Cheney, Rove administration. In fact, it is obvious to most that the award was really a reward for the fact that we survived!

While these are all very important points of discussion and vigorous debate, this writing was motivated by something other than those news items. While watching CNN, I happened to catch a speech delivered by President Obama to a prominent LBGT umbrella group on October 10, in Washington DC.

I found it troubling that during a portion of the speech, he appeared to create a moral equivalence between those involved in the LGBT rights effort and those active in the Civil Rights movement.

Under pressure from the militant gay rights lobby to move faster to fulfill some of his campaign promises, President Obama reiterated that his support for them is "unwavering." They would like to see him move quicker to repeal the "Don't ask, don't tell" policy of the military and to institute reforms in the area of same-sex unions. They are not same-sex "marriages." The Defense of Marriage Act of 1996 signed into law by then President Bill Clinton defined marriage as being between a man and a woman. He got that one right.

Going back to the speech, President Obama said it was not his position to tell LGBT rights advocates in 2009 to be patient any more than it was the responsibility of the president to tell others to be patient during the Civil Rights movement in the 1960's.

All free-thinkers knowledgeable of civic engagement and history should find that to be a faulty statement.

There is no parallel comparison to be drawn between the two. The push for Civil Rights was a legitimate movement, the other is a special interest group. They should not be juxtaposed.

During the push for Civil Rights, whether you agree with the non-violent methodology in the face of vicious White violence or not, the fact remains that Black people were being beaten, lynched and killed regularly, in many cases, with the sanctioning of corrupt local and federal law enforcement officials and politicians who looked the other way while these crimes against humanity were being committed. There were signs that said "White Only" and "Colored Only" that differentiated where Blacks could eat, shop, ride and live.

Has this been anything close to the reality faced by gays? Has this ever been reported to be a part of the experience of the gay rights activists?

For President Obama, clearly, the honeymoon is over, and the criticism he has faced from the gay rights lobby is another example of that. One of the problems with politicians in the American political system is that they attempt to be all things to all people.

I realize that number one is a hard spot and Barack Obama's election has impacted the world on many different levels. That much is undeniable. It remains to be seen what type of discussion we will have three to six months from now when people will really be questioning whether the "change" that represented so much "hope" was really just "hype."

(Ashahed M. Muhammad is an author, researcher and the director of the Truth Establishment Institute.)

Atty. General Eric Holder on Youth Violence in Chicago and the Nation

2009-10-07T13:40:00.005-05:00

(Photo: Leila Khaled)

REMARKS AS PREPARED FOR DELIVERY BY ATTORNEY GENERAL ERIC HOLDER

Location: City Hall Building in Chicago, Illinois

October 7, 2009

Nearly two weeks ago, this nation was shocked by a video showing scenes of such graphic violence that they have left an indelible mark in the mind of every American who has seen them. For the many Americans who live with the threat of violence every day, the video was a sad reminder of the harshness and cruelty that remains all too prevalent in many parts of this country. For others, it was a stark wake up call to a reality that can be easy for many to ignore as they go about their day to day lives.

For me, it was a call to action to address a challenge that affects the entire nation. Youth violence isn't a Chicago problem, any more than it is a black problem or a white problem. It's something that affects communities big and small, and people of all races and colors.

The Department of Justice is releasing a new study today that measures the effects of youth violence in America, and the results are staggering. More than 60 percent of the children surveyed were exposed to violence in the past year, either directly or indirectly. Nearly half of children and adolescents were assaulted at least once, and more than one in ten were injured as a result. Nearly one-quarter were the victim of a robbery, vandalism or theft, and one in sixteen were victimized sexually.

Those numbers are astonishing, and they are unacceptable. We simply cannot stand for an epidemic of violence that robs our youth of their childhood and perpetuates a cycle in which today's victims become tomorrow's criminals.

We're here today to continue a public safety conversation that the Obama Administration started on day one. It has included a law enforcement summit I hosted at the Department of Justice, a White House gang prevention conference, and countless episodes of collaboration with local law enforcement. But it's not a conversation where we want to do all the talking. We want to listen to educators, parents, and experts in the field, and find out the best ideas for addressing this urgent problem. We're not interested in just scratching the surface or focusing on generalities, and as we delve into this problem we're not going to protect any sacred cows. We're here to learn firsthand what's happening on our streets so we can devise effective solutions.

Our responses to this issue in the past have been fragmented. The federal government does one thing, states do another, and localities do a third. We need a comprehensive, coordinated approach to address youth violence, one that encompasses the latest research and the freshest approaches. Our administration is committed to implementing such strategies, which is why we've asked for $24 million in next year's budget for community-based crime prevention programs such as Ceasefire and Project Safe Neighborhood. And it's why our Office of Justice Programs is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide support and assistance to communities affected by violence.

There are no quick and easy fixes. Our approach will need to involve not just law enforcement, but also faith-based organizations, the business community, and social services groups. We will need a combination of prevention, intervention, and targeted enforcement.

We started by meeting today with community leaders here in Chicago, and with students from Fenger High School. I'll be honest - these weren't all easy conversations. There is a lot of frustration and a lot of pain right now, and there should be. The status quo is not acceptable. But I want the people of Chicago and the people of this nation to know that we are not going to rest until we've done everything we can to protect the American people and to stem this tide of violence.

The Department of Justice has already committed resources to helping keep our children and our schools safe. Just last week we announced $16 million through the COPS' Secure Our Schools program in grants to law enforcement agencies and municipalities throughout the country, including almost half a million to the city of Chicago. These grants provide funds to improve security in schools and on school grounds by helping pay for security measures like metal detectors, locks, surveillance systems and other equipment to help deter crime. These are first steps, and we will do more.

I've talked to the President about this, and he is firmly committed to this issue, as are Secretary Duncan and I. So today is the continuation of what is a sustained, national effort on behalf of this entire administration to address youth violence and to make our streets safe for everyone.

###

Our Black Youth & Violence: They Are Not Beyond Redemption (FinalCall.com)

2009-10-05T16:47:00.014-05:00

WWW.FINALCALL.COM

Here is just some of what is contained in this issue of The Final Call:

- Exclusive on the ground coverage of the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of 16-year-old honor student Derrion Albert, and his funeral.

- An Exclusive One-on-One interview with The REAL Rick Ross
by FCN Western Regional Correspondent Charlene Muhammad.

- "FOX's New Minstrel Show: The Cleveland's"
A perspective from guest columnist Jasmyne A. Cannick.

- Coverage of the Africa-South America Summit featuring Libyan leader Muammar Gadhafi and Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez.

And much more!

16-year old Derrion Albert's Funeral is on Oct. 3rd (Graphic Audio & Video)

2009-10-02T16:55:00.006-05:00

Coverage of the 64th UN General Assembly (FinalCall.com)

2009-09-28T12:08:00.013-05:00

COVERAGE OF THE 64TH UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

***

U.S. President Barack Hussein Obama's first address to the UN General Assembly on, U.S., he told world leaders that he was aware of the expectations that accompanied his Presidency – rooted in a discontent with a status quo that had allowed people to be increasingly defined by their differences and outpaced by their problems.

http://www.finalcall.com/artman/publish/videos/obama_unga2009_6470.shtml

***

Leader of the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Col. Muammar Gadhafi's first appearance before the United Nations General Assembly.

http://www.finalcall.com/artman/publish/videos/gadhafi_unga2009_6467.shtml

Al Jazeera Interview with Col. Muammar Gadhafi

Col. Gadhafi answered questions regarding his UN speech, the African Union, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and other topics.

http://www.finalcall.com/artman/publish/videos/gadhafi_video_6469.shtml

***

Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad addressed to the United Nations General Assembly on September 23, 2009. Among the topics addressed were the evils of "unbridled capitalism"the end of the age of empires and the continued oppression against the Palestinian people.

http://www.finalcall.com/artman/publish/videos/ahmadinejad_unga2009_6470.shtml

***

Venezuelan President Hugo Rafael Chávez delivered a spirited address at the 2009 United Nations General Assembly. The popular Venezuelan leader outlined his thoughts on the recent coup in Honduras and the global "ideological warfare currently under way."

http://www.finalcall.com/artman/publish/videos/chavez_unga2009_6468.shtml

***

Gambia's President Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh addressed the United Nations General Assembly on September 24, 2009. He expressed the relevancy of global collaboration but condemned the exploitation of Africa's natural resources by multinational corporations in the name of globalization. He stated that the UN must come to the rescue of Africa otherwise we Africans stand ready to liberate ourselves from eternal bondage at any cost.
http://www.finalcall.com/artman/publish/videos/jammeh_unga2009_6471.shtml

Black People welcome Muammar Gadhafi at the UN

2009-09-16T08:36:00.002-05:00

Desperate and Insecure: Whites See Country Slipping Away (FinalCall.com)

2009-09-15T08:43:00.002-05:00

WWW.FINALCALL.COM

Here is what you will find in this issue of The Final Call :

Desperate & Insecure: Whites See Country Slipping Away
When a virtually unknown Republican Congressman, Joe Wilson from South Carolina shouted the words "You lie!" during a September 9 speech by Pres. Barack Obama, it was the latest example of the uncivil tone and rancorous atmosphere created by many of the president's opponents on the right.

Gadhafi: Love for Africa, or a Personal Agenda? Part I by A. Akbar Muhammad
Expert historical information and analysis regarding Col. Muammar Gadhafi, and his efforts to establish the African Union despite opposition. Col. Gadhafi is scheduled to speak at the United Nations on Sept.23.

Ludacris: We can all help someone.
Hip-hop artist Ludacris does his part to help others during these trying times by giving away vehicles through his foundation.

Ignorance, White Rage and Race Fuel Opposition to Obama by Dr. Ron Daniels

Liberation, Not a Fictitious Palestinian State
An analysis by Hasan Abu Nimah and Ali Abunimah

Message to the So-Called Latino
Real talk from David J. Muhammad

Remembering the Tragedy of September 11, 2001

2009-09-11T12:19:00.009-05:00

Remembering the Tragedy of September 11, 2001
By Ashahed M. Muhammad

We all remember the tragedy of September 11, 2001. I was actually in Atlanta, Georgia eight years ago when the news came that something happened to one of the World Trade Center Towers. At first, news reports simply said, “there was an explosion” near the WTC site. As the world watched, a second airplane hurling through air had been turned into a missile. With great speed it slammed into the second WTC Tower.

It became apparent at that moment, if it wasn’t already, that America had been attacked. Instinctively, everyone living in America, even those who have been critical of its social, economic and political conditions knew that life would never be the same. For Muslims, it was clear that things were going to change significantly and perhaps most drastically for them.

Three-hours later, both WTC towers had collapsed. My thoughts went back to a friend of mine that I met one summer who attended Seton Hall. She worked at the World Trade Center when a bomb went off there back in 1993. She survived the 1993 attack, but I remember her telling me that the attack scared the hell out of her. I lost contact with her, but when looking at the names of the close to 3,000 who perished as a result of the coordinated attacks and simultaneous hijacking of four airliners, thankfully, her name was not one of them.

I am certain that on this day, for the families who have lost loved ones, nothing can describe the experience of feeling that someone you know or care about died in such a terrible way. To the best of my knowledge, I was fortunate, I did not lose anyone in the worst terrorist attack on American soil.

The announcement was made that the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan would be speaking a few days later, on September 16th to deliver a message regarding the 9-11 attacks. I along with two other brothers (you know who you are) were able to secure extremely cheap airplane tickets round trip from Atlanta to Chicago in the days following 9-11. Everyone was afraid to fly, and if you recall, after the attack, North American airspace was closed to civilian aircraft for several days. In fact, I think our flight was one of the first to go up after air travel was again permitted.

When we got on our early morning flight at Atlanta’s Hartsfield/Jackson Int'l Airport. It was just us three, and a few other civilian passengers on the plane. The rest were pilots and stewardesses who had been stranded in their respective cities. There couldn’t have been over 20 people on the flight. We weren’t afraid to fly, we were just trying to get to Chicago to directly hear Minister Farrakhan’s message to the world.

Minister Farrakhan was the first Muslim leader with the courage to speak out immediately after the attacks on the Pentagon and WTC. He spoke in a rational manner and his words were filled with guidance to lead all sides through a particularly troubling period in the history of the United States.

I have been impacted by the 9-11 attacks, and so has my family. I remember one time when my daughter, at the tender age of 4 was “randomly” picked, probably because of her name, to have special security screening prior to an airplane flight we were about to take. To his credit, the TSA representative apologized profusely and was upset that he had to wand my child down. He was a decent human being. I was very vigilant, and she took it all in stride.

After again checking the names listed of those who died, I lost no family members, or even friends, in the 9-11 attacks, however my sympathies are with those who lost friends and loved ones in such a horrendous manner.

Read the entire text of Minister Farrakhan's message, including the Q&A period with the media at: http://www.finalcall.com/artman/publish/Perspectives_1/article_6422.shtml

War in Afghanistan: Obama and Victims on both sides

2009-09-04T13:38:00.041-05:00

The cost of the War in Afghanistan.

Watching the coverage of the War in Afghanistan, listening to the different perspectives, and reading the differing opinions, it is strange to see and hear the liberal left and the conservative right both increasingly vocal in their criticism of Pres. Barack H. Obama.

The fact that he inherited the mess in Afghanistan after 8 years of mismanagement by the Bush administration seems to be lost on many of the commentators who appear more interested in assigning blame to the president than discussing and identifying real solutions.

A recent CNN poll found that 57 percent of the American people are against the war and with four months left in in the year, 2009 has been the deadliest for military personnel there since "Operation Enduring Freedom" began on Oct. 7, 2001.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen held a press briefing at the Pentagon on Sept. 3 and, like good military men, reiterated their support for Pres. Obama’s strategy in the region.

At one point during the briefing, Secretary Gates said the following:

"I think what is important is for us to be able to show, over the months to come, that the president's strategy is succeeding. And that is what General McChrystal is putting in front of us, is how best we can, at least from the military's standpoint, ensure that we can show signs of progress along those lines. But I think it is also -- there is always a difference between the perspective in terms of timing in this country (U.S.) and certainly in this city (Washington D.C), and what's going on in the country (Afghanistan). And I think what's important to remember is, the president's decisions were only made at the -- on this strategy were only made at the very end of March.

Our new commander appeared on the scene in June. We still do not have all of the forces the president has authorized in Afghanistan yet, and we still do not have all the civilian surge that the president has authorized and insisted upon in Afghanistan yet.

So we are only now beginning to be in a position to have the assets in place that -- and the strategy or the military approach in place to begin to implement the strategy. And this is going to take some time. By the same time (sic), no one is more aware than General McChrystal and certainly the two of us that there is a limited time for us to show that this approach is working, and certainly for the secretary of State and the president as well, because there is this broader element of the strategy that goes beyond the military."

Admiral Mullen then added:

"The only thing I'd add to that is, this has been a mission that has not been well-resourced. It's been under-resourced almost since its inception, certainly in recent years. And it has -- and part of why it has gotten more serious and has deteriorated has been directly tied to that. President Obama has approved the troops, approved the civilians that, as the secretary indicated, are literally in many cases just arriving on scene."

So I ask the following questions:

- Who will address the humanitarian crisis of the suffering Afghan people and the hundreds of civilian casualties being caused by Hellfire missiles raining down from unmanned predator drones?

- What will be the solution to limit the effectiveness of an evolving and battle hardened enemy (the Taliban) that seems to be able to strike American troops and assassinate Afghan government officials at will?

- How many American mothers and fathers are willing to lose their sons and daughters in the mountainous regions of Afghanistan in a war that appears to have no end in sight?

Remember, in this war, even the definition of success is subjective.

4 Years Later: Hurricane Katrina's Aftermath - The Final Call

2009-08-24T14:04:00.008-05:00

It is a hard subject to discuss that makes many feel uncomfortable, however, The Final Call's Jesse Muhammad has steadfastly reported on the plight of those affected by the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, which forever changed the lives of many on August 29, 2005.

Highlights in this issue include:

- Fasting Strengthens Discipline, an article by the Hon. Minister Louis Farrakhan as the Muslim world observes the Holy Month of Ramadan.

-A One-on-One interview with the new National Chairman of the National Black United Front, Kofi Taharka.

-Michael Vick Has Paid His Dues, an insightful column by veteran journalist George Curry

- The story of a serial killer who has targeted Black women on the West Coast for over 20 years!

***

Are you a subscriber? If not, what are you waiting for? Subscribe today!

http://www.finalcall.com/artman/publish/subscriptions/subscriptions.shtml

White Rage: Militias Rise Again in America - The Final Call

2009-08-19T18:34:00.004-05:00

Highlights from this issue include:

- A One-on-One interview with entertainer Steve Harvey.

- An Analysis of U.S. Secretary of State Hillary R. Clinton's trip to Africa.

- A Tribute to the life and legacy of the Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey.

Sister Ava Muhammad's profound message on August 9th at Mosque Maryam.

2009-08-12T13:27:00.022-05:00

Minister Ava Muhammad speaking on the subject "A New Educational Paradigm" at Mosque Maryam on Sunday, August 9th 2009. The message was viewed natiowide via webcast.
(Photo:Ashahed M. Muhammad)

Sister Minister Ava Muhammad delivered an insightful and thought-provoking message on Sunday, August 9th at Mosque Maryam, in Chicago, IL.

Those of you present in Chicago to see and hear her in person, what were your thoughts? What are you going to study or look into as a result of her words?

Those of you who may have viewed via internet webcast, what are some critical points she made that stood out in your mind?

Those of you who did not have the opportunity to hear her, or those interested in hearing her message again, did you know that you can go to store.finalcall.com to order it on CD or DVD?

Steve Harvey reads The Final Call. Do you?

2009-08-07T15:27:00.005-05:00

Steve Harvey is a regular reader of The Final Call.

(Photo: Timothy 6X)

Today (August 7) I had the great pleasure of interviewing entertainer, radio host and author Steve Harvey here in Chicago at the Harold Washington Cultural Center in Bronzeville. He is participating in the 2009 Bud Billiken Day Parade on Saturday, August 8th. Bud Billiken is the largest annual Black back-to-school celebration in the nation.

I asked him about his mentoring program recently featured on CNN, and some other things that you'll read about once the forthcoming interview is published. We had some good laughs!

Steve Harvey reads The Final Call. Do you?

White Right Continues to Attack Obama

2009-08-06T12:21:00.007-05:00

The White Right Wing led by "The Birther" movement and others in the media such as Sean Hannity, Rush Limbaugh and Glenn Beck are continuing to attack Pres. Barack H. Obama.

What are your thoughts on why? Will they ever leave this alone?

Some highlights from this issue include:

- Coverage of The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan's outreach to the street organizations and inmates in Bermuda as well as his meeting with 3 Uighur nationalists who were freed from Guantanamo Bay and resettled in Bermuda.

- An interview with the National Urban League's President and CEO Marc Morial.

All that is in the current issue and much much more....

WWW.FINALCALL.COM

An Interview with Warren Ballentine "The People's Attorney"

2009-07-28T09:36:00.010-05:00

The Truth About Black & White by Warren Ballentine

Ashahed M. Muhammad (AMM): The book. Why did you write it?

Attorney Warren Ballentine (WB): I wrote it because, honestly, we have not talked about race relations from an economic development standpoint, and the book is about how economics plays a huge role in race relations in this country. I’ll give you a perfect example: What I write in the book is that it’s just cheaper to be White in America than it is to be Black, because of educational advances, because of the police incidents, because of the poverty we grow up in as African-Americans. So, it’s just cheaper in this country if you’re born a Caucasian than being born a Black person.

AMM: Now, any outspoken individual who uses his considerable audience, popularity, or whatever faces retribution. Most of the time it starts with corporate retribution, it may extend to people in their personal life. How have you dealt with those challenges being outspoken and being someone who is not afraid to take what is considered the “politically incorrect” view, or position? How have you dealt with that? How do you maintain your integrity in a situation where a lot of things are judged by numbers, or how much revenue they generate?

WB: I pray everyday. And what I pray for is the spirit of humbleness, and, the spirit of me doing what God is asking me to do—not what I individually want to do. So, if I’m making a “politically incorrect” statement to the masses—this is what God put in me. I don’t worry about what anybody else thinks. As long as I’m doing His Will, then, you know, whatever anybody else thinks, I really don’t care, to be honest with you. I’m not afraid. And that’s the big thing: You can’t be afraid to speak the truth. If you’re speaking truthfully—no matter if you’re White, Black, Hispanic, Asian—if it’s the truth, it’s the truth! And if that’s what you’re telling, you have no reason to be fearful, or, worry about people trying to diffuse what you’re doing. Because, if you’re speaking the truth, they can’t beat the truth.

AMM: How is it going around to different campuses? You are old enough to be respected, but young enough to still relate. What are you finding in the response that you’ve heard in some of these Black colleges. What is their response? How do they feel when they see somebody that’s your age, using the same terminology; talking about the issues?

WB: They love it. I mean, you know, it’s a great response. And they love the fact that—you know, what I’m finding to be surprising is that, especially on a college level, a lot of people are excited about the fact that I’m a lawyer, and not a rapper or a ball player, and coming, and speaking to them. And I think that it’s a lost generation out here, because nobody’s trying to connect that generation to the previous generation. And we have to bridge that gap. I mean, even with our generation—you and me. You know, you look at our elders, it’s a big gap there. Nobody has bridged that gap. And that’s the key: We’ve got to bridge that gap, because, we’re only one generation removed. If we don’t teach the next generation, then they will never know. So, the key is for us to remember: We want to be teachers; but, we want them to feel comfortable enough to understand that we’re their friends too.

AMM: What's coming up for you? What do you have going on next?

WB: I’m leaving here; I’m on my way to Tampa for the NABJ [33rd Annual Convention and Career Fair]. I’m leaving here, and going to Rev. C.T. Vivian’s birthday in Atlanta. Then, I’m going to Tampa; then I’ll be leaving there to go to New York. I’m going to be doing a lot with Black Enterprise and Our World with Ed Gordon, so, I’ll be doing some stuff with him.

AMM: Any books coming up? Possible TV shows? Or, you can’t tell me yet?

WB: I can’t tell you with the TV show, but, the book is out right now: “The Truth About Black and White”—Amazon.com. You can pick it up.

AMM: Real good. Excellent…Thank you.

(Visit Warren Ballentine "The People's Attorney" at http://www.thetruthfighters.com)

Michael Jackson: Crucified! - Latest Edition of The Final Call

2009-07-27T19:29:00.008-05:00

WWW.FINALCALL.COM

"America is the modern Roman Empire...Ancient Rome is gone, and modern Rome is going. There is a conspiracy against the Black male and anyone who shows his head as a potential leader, the eyes of the enemy are on that one."

The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan

Mosque Maryam, Chicago, Illinois

July 26, 2009