Georgia Muslims To Host Interfaith Memorial Service for Muhammad Ali

ATLANTA, GA, 6/5/16) – On Thursday, June 9, Georgia’s Muslim community will, God willing, host an interfaith memorial service (6 p.m.) for Muhammad Ali at the Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam, Georgia’s oldest Muslim house of worship. RSVP on Facebook or by emailing [email protected]. Space is limited.

In addition to the memorial service, mosques across Georgia plan to conduct funeral prayers for the renowned athlete and humanitarian on Friday after each mosque’s weekly congregational service, which begin between 1:45 and 2:00 pm, and end between 2:30 and 3:00 pm.

CAIR National has also called on mosques across the United States to conduct prayers for Ali on Friday to coincide with hus burial in Kentucky.

The funeral prayers, called “salat al-ghaib” (sa-lat all-guy-ib), are performed for Muslims who have died in a distant place.

“One of Muhammad Ali’s many iconic moments occurred when he lit the 1996 Olympic flame here in Atlanta,” event organizers said. “It is only fitting that Atlanta Muslims unite with our neighbors of all backgrounds to thank God for Muhammad Ali.”

During the Thursday evening memorial service, Georgians from diverse communities plan to discuss what Muhammad Ali’s legacy means to them.

“Muhammad Ali spoke out against racism and war. He stood up for faith and reconciliation,” said Edward Ahmed Mitchell, Executive Director of the Georgia chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. “He was a role model—not only for Muslims, African-Americans, and athletes, but for all people who champion peace and justice.”

“He was a hero to all of us and he gave all of us hope in the future,” said Rev. Dr. Fahed Abu Akel, a Palestinian Christian who met Ali in Atlanta. “He loved his family. He loved his faith in God. He loved living. He loved the community and gave his time to raise money for great causes all over America and around the world.”

Georgians interested in attending the memorial service at Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam should RSVP on Facebook or by emailing [email protected]. Space is limited.

Participating Organizations Include: