By Ubax Gardheere
On Tuesday, June 27th, 2023, one of the holiest days of the year for Muslim Americans, three generations of Somali Americans came together at the Muslim American Youth Foundation (MAYF) to welcome Professor Mohamed Mukhtar, a distinguished scholar in African/Middle Eastern History and Arabic from Savannah State University (an HBCU). Professor Mukhtar’s visit signifies a significant milestone for the Somali community in King County, highlighting their commitment to intellectual growth and cultural preservation. With his extensive research and publication record, including his latest work on Somali history, Professor Mukhtar brings a fresh perspective to the understanding of African and Middle Eastern history. His expertise empowers individuals to reclaim their narratives and contributes to the broader field of historical scholarship. The scientific method he advocates for researching Somali history encourages a comprehensive and unbiased understanding, free from preconceived notions and biases. Professor Mukhtar’s impact extends beyond academia. His involvement in peacebuilding and reconciliation initiatives demonstrates his commitment to fostering unity and understanding within communities. This article celebrates the Somali communities in King County for their embrace of knowledge and culture as they welcomed Professor Mohamed Mukhtar and his daughter Subeyda Mukhtar. It highlights the transformative power of his scholarship, the potential for growth and unity within the community, and the invaluable contributions of the Somali communities to the broader social fabric of King County.
The event kicked off with a warm welcome from the emcees, City of Tukwila Council Member Mohamed Abdi and Community Organizer Ubax Gardheere, who set the tone for the evening’s festivities. The invocation and welcome to MAYF were led by Sheikh Abdulahi Hashi, director and lead imam of MAYF. His heartfelt words set the stage for an event focused on learning, community, and cultural celebration. The program continued with a captivating dialogue that provided a brief historical analysis of Somalia. Doctor Mukhtar and his brilliant daughter, Subeyda Mukhtar, who is a graduate of Howard University and a former organizer with a South King County Coalition before she left to Somalia 10 years ago to give back to the Mother Land guided attendees through a discussion of Somali history, offering a comprehensive overview of the country’s rich past. This presentation served as a foundation for the subsequent discussions and keynote address, setting the context for deeper exploration of Somali history and its implications for the present. Kent School Board Member Awale Farah, then took the mic to deliver an inspiring dialogue on learning from history. Farah emphasized the importance of understanding the lessons embedded within historical events and highlighted the potential for personal growth and community development that can be derived from studying the past. His thought-provoking address resonated with the participants and set the stage for the dialogue that followed.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the keynote address delivered by the esteemed guest of honor, Dr. Mohamed Haji Mukhtar. As the renowned author of “The Scientific Method of Researching,” Professor Mukhtar’s insights and expertise captivated the audience. His presentation shed light on significant aspects of Somali history, offering a fresh perspective and inspiring attendees to chart new horizons. The history of Somalia is characterized by a rich tapestry of cultures, trade networks, and political dynamics. The region’s strategic coastal location along the Indian Ocean has facilitated interactions with various civilizations, contributing to the diverse cultural heritage of Somalia. Professor Mukhtar’s impact extends beyond academia. His involvement in peacebuilding and reconciliation initiatives demonstrates his commitment to fostering unity and understanding within communities. By engaging with his work, the Somali communities in King County have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of their own history and apply principles of peacebuilding in their lives.
Somalia’s history can be traced back to ancient times when it served as an important hub for maritime trade, connecting the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and the Mediterranean. The region witnessed the rise and fall of several powerful city-states, such as Opone, Mosylon, and Sarapion, which flourished through commerce and cultural exchange. In the 7th century, Islam arrived in Somalia, bringing significant social, religious, and political transformations. The spread of Islam led to the formation of Islamic sultanates, such as the Ajuran Sultanate and the Sultanate of Adal, which exerted influence over large parts of the Somali territories. Both Doctor Mukhtar and Board member Farah discussed the colonial era, when Somalia was partitioned among various European powers. The British controlled the northern regions, known as British Somaliland, while the Italians governed the south, known as Italian Somaliland. The French occupied the region of Djibouti, which is now an independent country. The colonial period had a profound impact on the Somali people and laid the foundation for a national identity and unity. The desire for independence and self-determination fueled the emergence of Pan-Somalism, an ideology advocating for the unification of all Somali-inhabited territories into a single nation-state. Pan-Somalism aimed to overcome the artificial colonial borders and reunite Somalis in one political entity.
Dr. Mukhtar talked about Pan-Somalism and how it gained momentum in the mid-20th century, particularly after World War II when the winds of decolonization swept across Africa. Somali nationalists of that time played crucial roles in advocating for the unification of Somali territories. Dr. Mukhtar discussed the momentum gained by Pan-Somalism in the mid-20th century, particularly after World War II when decolonization efforts spread across Africa. Somali nationalists played crucial roles in advocating for the unification of Somali territories. Following the history discussion led by Dr. Mukhtar and Board Member Farah, a collective panel dialogue titled “Charting New Horizons for Somalis” took place. The leads for this discussion included Mama Hamdi Abdulle of African Community Housing and Development, Ali Scego, a workforce expert and resident of the City of Bellevue, and former Tukwila Council member Zak Idan, each respected members of the Somali community. Moderated by Zubeida Mukhtar, the discussion provided a platform for the exchange of ideas and perspectives on the future of the Somali community in King County. Attendees actively participated, asking thought-provoking questions and engaging in dynamic dialogue.
Adding a creative touch to the event, Liban Wardere recited a poignant poem that beautifully captured the spirit and aspirations of the Somali community. His words resonated with the participant, further highlighting their deep connection and appreciation for their heritage.
The Welcoming Professor Mukhtar event was a resounding success, leaving attendees inspired, enlightened, and connected. It provided a platform for the Somali community of King County to come together, celebrate their history and culture, and chart a path towards a prosperous future. The event exemplified the power of knowledge, community engagement, and intergenerational dialogue in shaping a vibrant and cohesive society for King County Somali Americans. The event helped the participants understand and collectively analyze the history of Somalia which is marked by a vibrant cultural heritage, colonial influences, and the emergence of Pan-Somalism as a vision for a united Somali state. While the challenges faced by Somalia have impacted the realization of Pan-Somalism, the ideology continues to be discussed today. The event concluded with a patriotic song for the somali flag lead by Professor Mukhtar. The success of the Somali community of King County in organizing this event reflects their resilience, determination, and commitment to education and cultural preservation. It showcases their thriving intellectual and cultural landscape, inspiring future generations to embrace education, engage with history, and contribute to the betterment of society.
In conclusion, the event helped participants understand and collectively analyze the history of Somalia, which is characterized by a vibrant cultural heritage, colonial influences, and the emergence of Pan-Somalism as a vision for a united Somali state. While the challenges faced by Somalia have impacted the realization of Pan-Somalism, the ideology continues to be discussed today. The event concluded with a patriotic song for the Somali flag led by Professor Mukhtar. The success of the Somali community in King County in organizing this event reflects their resilience, determination, and commitment to education and cultural preservation. It showcases their thriving intellectual and cultural landscape, inspiring future generations to embrace education, engage with history and envision a future they want to see for their beloved country and their communities in the diaspora. Professor Mukhtar closing remarks encapsulated the collective appreciation for the insightful discussions and the sense of community that had been fostered throughout the evening.
