Brother Ali

Minnesota based world renowned hip-hop recording artist and rapper, Brother Ali (a.k.a. Ali Newman), shared his thoughts on the ongoing Palestinian/Israeli conflict. His words are reminiscent of the famous words of Malcolm X when he said, "I'm for truth, no matter who tells it. I'am for justice, no matter who it is for or against. I'am a human being, first and foremost, and as such I'm for whoever and whatever benefits humanity as a whole."

I am reproducing some of Brother Ali's thoughts below.

"I've received a lot of questions about Palestine and I don't think anyone would be surprised about my sentiments. I'm against all forms of domination, anywhere, at any time and by anyone. "

"People with massive material power, money, weapons, propaganda and influence are tortured by what they've done to others. They rot from within, drowning in fear of what might happen to them if their victims ever get on their feet. Oppressors' guilt drives them to use every tool in their wretched arsenal to erase entirely the human proof of their own frail and unloving hearts."

"So yes, my heart moans for the people being brutalized in Gaza. Israel should listen to its courageous Jewish humanitarians who are protesting their actions around the world. Anyone doing anything in sincere solidarity with oppressed people have my complete support. "

"Muslims shouldn't have to repeat this over and over again, but Islam doesn't condone terrorism or killing of innocent people. Human despair on the other hand makes powerless, humiliated, suffering people do anything in their limited reality to grab some semblance of action. As a Muslim, our religion teaches us to be patient and faithful in the face of oppression, but I've never been in those people's shoes, I've never even been to visit them. I'm not in a position to judge them."

"If you're compelled to send money, send it. If you're called to protesting, do it well. If you're praying for peace, keep praying. If you're studying and raising awareness in your own sphere of influence, be eloquent and direct. I'm rockin with you. "