Problems facing Muslims in South Africa
26-10-2002 | IslamWeb
Question:
I am a Muslim from South Africa and my 'Eemaan at times seems to drop due to racism experienced at the hands of fellow Muslim brothers, namely the Asians. My question is what do I do in a situation like this because most black brothers are turning to other groups because of the prejudice we get from our fellow Muslim brothers. I will not go against the teachings of the Prophet, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam. Please help as this is becoming a very big problem amongst my people who are mostly reverts to Islaam.
Answer:
All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger. We ask Allaah to exalt his mention as well as that of his family and all his companions.
The real relation between Muslims is built on their common faith and belief in Allaah. It is not the colour, the language or the country.
Allaah says (interpretation of meaning): {The believers are nothing else than brothers (in religion). …}[49:10]. He also says (interpretation of meaning): {O mankind! We have created you from a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know one another. Verily, the most honourable of you with Allaah is that (believer) who has piety. Verily, Allaah is All-Knowing, All-Aware.}[49:13].
The Prophet 
said: "There is no preference of an Arab over a non-Arab or a non-Arab over an Arab or a white over a black or a black over a white except by the (degree) of piety, you are all sons of Aadam, and Aadam came from dust." [Ahmad]
What our brother mentioned in his question is against the teachings of Islam. In fact racism is a bad phenomenon that is strongly condemned by Islam. But we believe that it is not general. It is only with those who do not know the reality of belief, piety and brotherhood between Muslims. So, if this phenomenon is limited to a small group then we believe that you and the other African brothers should not be pushed by such acts to adhere to destructive religions or sects because of bad deeds committed by some Muslims. In fact, the truth that was revealed to Prophet Muhammad is not restricted to any group. Those who deserve it most are the ones who adhere to it in belief, deeds, speech and in spreading it.
You may also contact some well-established Sunni Islamic centers there in
Allaah knows best.