Muslims are witnessing a significant moment in American politics with two third-party presidential candidates selecting Muslim vice presidential running mates who are people of color.
Dr. Cornel West has chosen Dr. Melina Abdullah as his vice presidential running mate. A professor at Cal State LA and co-founder of Black Lives Matter – Los Angeles, Dr. Abdullah is renowned for her advocacy in education, worker rights, and racial and gender justice. Dr. West expressed his honor in standing alongside Dr. Abdullah, highlighting her courage and vision as pivotal to the fight against systemic oppression. He stated, “Sister Melina’s incredible courage, keen intellect, and deep vision have greatly served the cause of liberation.”
Another candidate, Dr. Jill Stein from The Green Party, recently announced Dr. Butch Ware as her vice presidential running mate. Dr. Ware is a professor at The University of California (Santa Barbara), a historian of Africa and Islam focusing on West African studies, and a lifelong activist and educator specializing in the history of empire, colonialism, genocide, and revolution. Ware’s academic background and commitment to social justice resonate deeply with Stein’s platform. In her announcement, Stein described their ticket as historic, emphasizing the collaboration between a Jewish woman and a Black Muslim man to combat issues like genocide, climate collapse, and economic injustice. She articulated a vision for a future that prioritizes the well-being of working people and the planet.
Identity politics aside, these VP selections mark a transformative moment in the political landscape. They showcase the candidates’ dedication to addressing the pressing issues of our time through a lens of compassion, social justice, solidarity, and advocacy for the well-being of those suffering at home and abroad. The impact of both presidential teams is closely watched by voters who desire meaningful change. Both candidates have faced lawsuits to prevent them from getting on the ballot in certain states, but those lawsuits have not succeeded.
Akanke is a native of Atlanta who now resides in Dayton, Ohio. She has also lived in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Grenada, West Indies. She discovered Islam in 1994, and her faith, spirituality, and personal development have been the driving force in her life ever since. A graduate of Georgia State University with a degree in Communication, Akanke focused on film, TV, and cultural anthropology during her studies. Her career is diverse, and her interests span various media platforms. From producing TV and radio shows to creating documentaries, coaching individuals towards empowerment, creating and exhibiting unique abstract paintings, providing public speaking guidance, delivering leadership training, and lending her voiceover talent to various projects, she strives sincerely to make a lasting and authentic impact wherever she goes. Akanke has been a dedicated supporter of MANA since 2007, currently serving as the organization’s Board Vice President. In this role, she plays a key part in shaping the organization’s vision and strategy. Additionally, she serves as the part-time Communications Director, where she excels in crafting compelling communication tools, including newsletters, articles, graphic designs, and social media campaigns. Through her work with MANA, Akanke continues to make a positive difference, using her talents and passion to uplift and inspire others.
