Politics(City), Empathy (Motives, Lies), Academics(Religion)



The Imam grew up in Detroit in the early 80s in one of the poorer neighborhoods. He was a smart kid with a love of baseball, church, and literature. Omar eventually converted to Islam after meeting with an older Imam. Omar was influenced by the writings of Elijiah Mohammed, but eventually moved on to the writings of more modern Muslim thinkers and he grew to admire their conviction, eloquence, and intellect. Despite living in a rough neighborhood, he was always very well read and active in the community. He had an interest in relgion and leftist political theory. His charm and intelligence got him far in many local organizations. He’s starting to become a rising face of liberal Islam. He studied in Chicago and became an imam, before going back to Detroit and getting involved in one of these urban action organizations. Omar even started writing on a book on his experiences and Islam in general. Family is one of the main things keeping Omar in Detroit and in this neighborhood. He also likes to be close to where he is needed and doesn't make a whole lot of money anyway.

Omar is bearded African-American man with a shaved head, beard and a two button black blazer that he seems to wear everywhere. He wears over a white shirt it when preaching in the mosque or working with troubled youth. He exudes a natural charisma and seems to have a great understanding of people.

Imam Omar is a man who retains the energy of his youth at the age of 34. He has an intense love for his community and is more than willing to do anything for it. Occasionally he can come across as arrogant to some others because of his intellectual bent, but he is equally willing to loosen up and talk sports or whatever is considered regular, as long as it doesn’t go against the tenants of his religions. He’s not quick to pass judgment, rather muttering disapproving remarks to himself.

Aspirations:

Publish my book

Get my message out there through the media (TV, Magazines, Newspapers)

Contribute to an improvement in Detroit neighborhoods in the next year