Jun 04, 2020

An Affront to Humanity

An Affront to Humanity – Zaman Stands in Solidarity in Fighting Racism and Inequality

A statement by Zaman Founder and CEO, Najah Bazzy and
Zaman Board Chairman, Gehad Alawan

At Zaman we are heartbroken. And like many, amid our tears, we are struggling to find words as we attempt to process such blatant disregard for human life. 

The murder of George Floyd and so many before him is an affront to everything we believe in as an organization. It is an affront to the entire human family and an insult to God.

Our mission to eradicate poverty has always been based on the fact there is dignity and value in all human life, no matter the color of our skin. It includes compassion and stewardship of all of our brothers and sisters in humanity.

Today, we see laid bare the ugliness and brutality of a system that does not extend that dignity to all. A system that fosters oppression and lets racism perpetuate with each new generation in every aspect of life. A system that denies the value of Black lives and perpetuates extreme poverty while so many enjoy unprecedented privilege. 

It is unacceptable and cannot persist. 

In condemning this blatant racism, we do so with the understanding that words are important, but true change requires intentionality and action. It takes a collective commitment to dismantle the system of oppression that has continued since this country’s founding. It takes a long-term, generational commitment. 

While we take pride in helping marginalized women and children overcome extreme poverty – it is not enough. True stewardship requires every person and organization to do more, and that includes Zaman. As an organization, we are reflecting on how we can better advance racial equity and diversity in everything we do.

To our neighbors in Inkster, you are in our thoughts and prayers. We stand alongside you and city leadership to help bring about the systematic change needed. We do not pretend to have all the answers. We are listening and ready to embrace an expanded role to help push back against hatred and inequity. 

As we mourn the lives of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and many more whose names we likely will never know, we prepare to move together as one human family until everyone is afforded the equality and dignity in life our Creator intended.