It’s February: Black History Month. In recognition of this month commemorating Black culture, identity, pride, and contributions to America, the Interfaith Institute will be featuring scholarship, writing, and art showcasing Black religious/spiritual/worldview diversity.
February 1st:
Teaching African American Religious Pluralism – Monica Coleman
February 9th:
Meditations of the Heart – Howard Thurman
Howard Thurman (1899-1979), was a theologian and pioneer of the nonviolent civil rights movement of the 20th century. His vocation was inspired by the stories of the religious faith maintained and grown amongst the slaves in the United States. He was a Baptist pastor, but he found wisdom in Quaker mysticism from Rufus Jones and in the teachings of Gandhi. Thurman’s focus on interfaith was most influential when it came to unifying people of diverse backgrounds to fight for a common cause. He approached it in a behind-the-scenes way, inspiring others to use their gifts to pursue justice and celebrate marginalized identities. He was a mentor to civil rights leaders such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Pauli Murray,Vernon Jordan, James Farmer, Whitney Young, and Bayard Rustin.
Meditations of the Heart is a collection of fifty-four of Thurman’s most well-known meditations, featuring his thoughts on prayer, community, and the joys and rituals of life. Within its pages are words that sustain, elevate, and inspire. From “A Man Becomes His Dream” to “I Need Courage” to “The Season of Remembrance,” Thurman addresses life’s moments of trial and uncertainty and offers a message of hope and endurance for people of all faiths.
February 13th:
Check out these resources on the experiences and contributions of African American Muslims in history from Islamic Network Group. (Islamic Networks Group (ING) is a peace-building organization providing face-to-face education and engagement opportunities that foster understanding of Muslims and other misunderstood groups to promote harmony among all people.)
Enslaved African Muslims in the United States – Sylviane Diouf
Experiences and Contributions of African American Muslims in History – Imam Faheem Shuaibe