During Black History Month, we will be featuring interviews from different personalities. We divided our questions into three parts: Past, Present and Future.

We begin our series of interviews with Joshua Salaam from Native Deen and ADAMS Center Youth Director.

Past – Malcolm X was a visionary and he had plans to establish a Muslim identity in North America.

1. Do you feel that our contemporary  generation has lost the connection to Malcolm’s legacies? Please explain (you may include suggestions and action steps)

Yes. Without a doubt we have lost the spirit, drive, integrity, etc. that Malik Al-Shabaz stood for. I say “we” because I myself have been victim to becoming complacent. His life’s message for everyone was to seek the truth and stand for it, no matter what the consequences.

2. On the eve of the 43rd anniversary of  Malcolm’s death, why do you feel we still have not been able to establish a fraction of Malcolm’s vision?

Hard to say. Perhaps we have realized some of his dream. But its less of a goal and more of a lifestyle. A lifestyle of bravery and strength. There will always be battles to be fought. Maybe with different tactics but we must be ever vigilant against racism, discrimination and hatred.

Present – Andre Carson and Keith Ellison, new leaders in a new age.

1. Mr. Carson and Mr. Ellison have added a new dimension to American politics. Do you think it is important for them to emphasize their Islamic beliefs to the American public? Why or why not?

I don’t think its important for them to emphasize their beliefs. I think it is crucial for them to stick by their beliefs. Maintain their beliefs. Everyone is a product of their upbringing. So they should keep whatever fundamental good they brought into their position and just live it. People will see for themselves. They won’t have to emphasize anything.

2. If you were a member of their administration, what advice or suggestions would you offer to them?

Its your time. Make the most of it.

Future – African American Youth

1. The youth are constantly bombarded by insidious and harmful elements in the media. Which role models would you recommend for our youth to seek inspiration and guidance? (Our Beloved Prophet is the default answer but anyone else that is in our generation?)

I think role models are local. Your neighbor, your teacher, your friends. You see them deal with stress on a day to day basis. People on TV are able to hide their true reactions. Therefore, it is also very important for everyone to remember, we are all role models and there are many little eyes looking at us searching for examples to live their lives by. We are all role models. Let’s be good ones.

2. For many, African pride is strong during the short month of February. What do you recommend to our readers to instill a consistent awareness of African history, past & present contributions and contemporary issues?

It must be a culture. If a guy play extremely well on the court, someone may shout out, “Jordan!!!” If someone is extremely smart we may shout out “Einstein!!!” But how many African American names can we shout out for academic achievements. We have to learn them and make it a culture of reminding people what our achievements are.

Purchase Native Deen’s new album, Not Afraid to Stand Alone, here. Also, check out their MySpace and Facebook pages. Here is a video of their new single, Stand Alone.