(Seattle Medium) Brother Benjamin Shabazz, A pillar, a leader, and walking institution in our community, was born September 21, 1946 in Camden NJ, aka South Jersey/North Philly. His birth name was Benjamin Cleveland Smith. He was named after his father who was an easy-going man who persevered through tough times.
Brother Benjamin served in the United States Armed Forces in the early 70’s doing a tour in the Vietnam War earning not 1, not 2, but 3 Purple Hearts. After an honorable discharge from his military service he settled in Seattle, Washington where he married his first wife, Mary Alice Jimerson and had three children, Keionna Smith, Emijah Smith, and Benjamin Smith. He later married Audrey Williams and had a fourth child, Jameel Shabazz. His last marriage was to Hajara Rahim.
Brother Benjamin joined the Nation of Islam after hearing the teachings of the Honorable Elijah Muhammed in the early 70’s and made the transition to Al-Islam Proper in 1975 under the leadership of Imam WD Muhammed. One of his inspirations in becoming a Muslim was his favorite artist James Brown with songs like “Say it loud, I’m Black and I’m proud!” He was also inspired by the heavyweight champion Muhammed Ali’s commitment and dedication to Black liberation and freedom. He was a recipient of the Muslim Man of the Year Award at the national Muslim journal awards banquet along with other recipients, including Muhammed Ali, Bernard Hopkins, and other major influencers.
Brother Benjamin became an Imam serving the community for over 30 years. He represented the community of Imam WD Muhammed, dedicating his entire life to the fulfillment of freedom, justice and equality. He found that the best way to accomplish this goal was to embody the essence of Al-Islam. His inspirational Khutbas were attended by the Greater Seattle Muslim community. Brother Benjamin was an unwavering Muslim ally to Jewish and Christian communities, organizing numerous interfaith programs and dialogues establishing a bridge for understanding and working together for one common goal. He was respected by local, state, and national elected officials, giving the opening prayers at the Washington State Capital in Olympia. In honor of Brother Benjamin’s life, the City of Seattle proclaims March 8th as Imam Benjamin Shabazz Day for his service to the community and to the cause of racial and economic justice, especially the African American community.
