Public testimony: Nasheed Kareem, member since 1970s, supports project
Nasheed Kareem, a masjid member since the 1970s, testifies in support. He describes how members contributed 'nickels and dimes and sweat and tears' to the building, raised children who became professionals, and stood up against crime in the 1980s. He emphasizes the need for senior housing and the masjid's role in improving the community.
As-salamu alaykum and peace be with you.
You've heard that before.
And as Muslims, that word is also has peace into it.
So we are a peaceful community that needs this project to keep the peace in the community.
You know, our members, and I've been around the master, been a member there since the 70s.
They gave their nickels and their dimes and their sweat and tears and love to that building.
You know, they raised up children there who are...
You know, professionals and laborers in the society, you know, it's important that we have something for the future of the community.
You know, everybody's invited to come to the mosque, you know, to the mosque.
In that area,
During the 80s, who stood up in that community when the criminals, drug dealers, you know, that set up their spaces there?
We're not criminal fighters, but we stand up for the right.
And when we stand up like that,
They know that.
They see that.
So the community is a better community right now.
We have people moving in, different people that maybe came five, ten years ago.
Maybe at that time, they would never want to come around in that community.
So we...
We need that in that area.
We need that building where the seniors, our seniors, they can have, you know, the seniors can have their place in that area.
It's very important, you know.
So I thank you for...
Listening to us, and we appreciate your help today.
Thank you so much.
You may begin.