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- For Immediate Release & Distribution -

Statement on the Passing of Imam W. Deen Mohammed, leader of the largest Muslim Movement in America

(Chicago, IL, 9/09/08) The leader of the largest constituent of Muslims in America, Imam W. Deen Mohammed, son of the Honorable Elijah Muhammad leader of the Nation of Islam, passed away today, he would turn 74 in October.

In 1975 he succeeded his father, leader of the Nation of Islam opening the movement to all races. He was a public servant who stood up against racial oppression, and worked continuously for peace, unity, and reconciliation. He maintained his father's legacy of economic and political empowerment for the Muslim community.

His passing today was confirmed in a statement released by the late leader's family, "Imam W. Deen Mohammed a follower of Prophet Muhammad - on him be peace- and Muslim leader passed away today at his home in Markham, IL. He trusted and he believed in the One G-d the Creator of all systems of Knowledge. We ask that you pray for our father and leader." - The Family of Imam W. Deen Mohammed

A Muslim prayer service for Imam W. Deen Mohammed is planned for this Thursday at 1:45 p.m. at the Islamic Foundation of Villa Park, 300 W Highridge Rd., Villa Park, IL 60181, followed by internment to Mt. Glennwood Cemetary, 18301 E Glenwood and Thornton Rd., Glenwood, IL 60425.

This Friday at 1 p.m. the Muslim community will hold a unity Jumah, Friday Muslim congregational prayer service, on the community's property across from 2979 W. 167th St. Markham, IL at 1 p.m.

The community memorial service is planned for this Saturday also on the community's property across from 2979 W. 167th St., Markham, IL at 1 p.m.

WHAT: Public Memorial Service for Imam W. Deen Mohammed

WHEN: Saturday September 13th beginning at 2 p.m. following afternoon prayer service

WHERE: Community property across from 2979 W. 167th St. Markham, IL

CONTACT: Ayesha K. Mustafaa, Muslim Journal or Sultan Muhammad, family member at (773) 540-6001 or sultan@mpdstudios. com sultan@mpdstudios. com

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