Here is a statement from the Muslim Alliance in North America on the death of Imam Luqman Abdullah. Imam Luqman was an active member of the MANA Shura.

The National Community or “Ummah” was established by Imam Jamil Al-Amin (formerly known as H. Rap Brown). It is an association of mosques in several cities in the U.S. that coordinates religious and social services primarily in the Black American community. Reference to the “Ummah” as a “nation-wide radical fundamentalist Sunni group consisting primarily of African-Americans” is an offensive mis-characterization.

To those who have worked with Imam Luqman A. Abdullah, allegations of illegal activity, resisting arrest, and “offensive jihad against the American government” are shocking and inconsistent. In his ministry he consistently advocated for the downtrodden and always spoke about the importance of connecting with the needs of the poor.

It is our hope and prayer that a thorough investigation will be carried out with the greatest integrity. We urge the Muslim community and all Americans committed to justice to actively monitor both the investigation and trial of the accused. Also, we urge law enforcement authorities to release Imam Luqman’s remains expeditiously so that they may be buried according to Islamic practice.