TO GOD WE BELONG
AND TO HIM IS OUR RETURN

It is with heavy hearts that we share news of the passing of our beloved brother, Imam Benjamin Shabazz. To God we belong and to Him we return. 

Brother Benjamin was there when Wasat was simply a seed of an idea and a dream in our hearts. It was he who taught us how real community acts and feels; it was he who exemplified service and love; and it was he who who called upon us to study, to honor, and to elevate the contributions of our African-American Muslim brothers and sisters and the W.D. Muhammad Community in Seattle and beyond. 

Our earliest events and some of our fondest memories revolved around potlucks - breaking bread, praying, and sharing together. Brother Benjamin and his family, and the Al-Islam Center community were anchors of those early gatherings. Their warmth, reliable presence, and ready laughs left an indelible mark and became part of the DNA of Wasat.

Brother Benjamin once described why Wasat was needed in a phrase that we still quote often, “We all need more places to be real, get real, and be known.” He was a man who recognized the whole person. He gave you and expected from you nothing but authenticity. We are honored to have known and worked alongside Brother Benjamin and are inspired by him still.

We pray that any good that comes through Wasat is counted in his scales on the Day of Rising; May Allah grant him Mercy and enter him into perfect Peace. 
(Al-Fatiha)

Our hearts are with the Smith & Shabazz families at this time.

VIRTUAL Janazah 
for Imam Benjamin Smith Shabazz:

Time: Mar 7, 2021 11:00 AM PST

Zoom Meeting Details

Join the Zoom VIRTUAL Janazah for Imam Benjamin Smith Shabazz

Meeting ID: 979 2006 2509

Passcode: 081674

The burial will also be streaming live on Facebook.