This Day in History: 2017-11-18
November 8, 2016 – “Minnesota Elects Country’s First Muslim American Woman Legislator”
Ilhan Omar became the first Muslim American woman elected to any legislative body in the country’s history. Omar, a Somali-American, is a former refugee and was elected to serve in Minnesota’s state legislature. In order to win her party’s nomination in Minneapolis, where she serves, she had to defeat a 44-year incumbent. She is an advocate for affordable college, criminal justice reform, economic equality and clean energy.
July 4, 1930 - "Elijah Muhammad Forms Nation of Islam in Detroit" Elijah Muhammad formed the Nation of Islam in Detroit, Michigan, beginning what became an introduction to many African-Americans to the Islamic faith. The organization is famous for its role in organizing the black community in urban centers around America. It also
is where Malcolm X began his career as a freedom fighter and religious leader. The Nation of Islam has been a source of protection, organization, refuge and resistance since its founding.