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.
