#BlackOutEid: The Black Muslim Collective and Community Celebration
How the Black Muslim Collective brought a # to life at East London's renowned cultural hub, Rich Mix.
Written by Muna Ahmed
Photography by Mahamed Mahamud (Summer Is Ours)
In 2017, #BlackOutEid gained traction across various social media platforms where Black Muslims would post photos of their Eid fits. Influenced by the #BlackOutDay tag on Tumblr and Twitter, producer and screenwriter Aaamina Mohamed set out to create a space for Black Muslims, and years later, the # has now been reanimated by a thriving collective in London.
Black Muslim Collective UK is an organisation dedicated to amplifying the voices of Black Muslims, skillfully curating an experience that left an indelible mark on all those fortunate enough to be present. This remarkable event not only celebrated the diversity within the Muslim community but also shed light on the intersection of race and faith, forging an unbreakable bond among attendees.
Dr Ayo Khalil
Rich Mix, a venue known for its commitment to fostering a sense of inclusivity, served as the perfect backdrop for the event. Vibrant and diverse, East London has long been host to a melting pot of cultures, echoing the very essence of #BlackOutEid's mission—to create a space where Black Muslims could authentically celebrate their faith and identity. The sold-out event highlights the significance of young Muslims being able to socialise and enjoy the arts in a wholesome prayer-friendly environment during one of the most sacred months in the Islamic calendar.
Featuring a captivating lineup of speakers and performers who shared their personal stories, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs faced by Black Muslims in a world that often overlooks their unique experiences, the decision to begin the night with an Islamic speech by community worker Dr Ayo Khalil fit the theme perfectly. Thought-provoking spoken word by the indelible Sami Rhymes tackled subjects ranging from identity and representation to social justice and activism, sparking a palpable sense of inspiration that permeated the atmosphere and stunned the crowd to silence before breaking into roaring applause.
Ayeeyo's Blends
Vendors in attendance included Hamda from Ayeeyo’s Blends, who told me, “It was amazing to see such a beautiful and diverse gathering, and the event felt very open and positive, so it was an honour to take part. There aren’t many spaces where the young Muslim crowd can gather, so what BMC are trying to create is very unique.”
Hafza from textile design studio Hafza Studio noted, "Being part of the #BlackOutEid as a vendor was a beautiful experience. It was inspiring to see the community come together to celebrate the diverse and rich cultures in the Black Muslim community. It's so important to create spaces like BMC where the community feels they belong and celebrated. I look forward to taking part in many more BMC events in the future inshallah."
My favourite moments came down to powerful spoken words by a young Somali man reflecting on fluctuations in faith during the open mic session and the stunning closing performance by East London R&B songstress 'BluesfortheHorn'. While the open mic left me teary-eyed and poignantly contemplative with the closing line, "I know I can never be a man that feels at ease, until I give my whole heart to my deen", the musical performance had me singing aloud and smiling, swaying from side to side while swearing with fervent urgency to start a fan page for the singer-songwriter that same very night! Alas, I did not, but I urge you to stream her music or see a show and feel the same urge for yourself.
At a time when social media has become a powerful platform for cultural movements, #BlackOutEid's evolution from the digital realm to a real-life community hub is nothing short of incredible. Black Muslim Collective's masterful execution of this event exemplified the potential of online activism to manifest real-world change. I left with a renewed sense of purpose, and the #BlackOutEid event at Rich Mix stood as a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of creating spaces that celebrate the rich tapestry of identities within the Muslim community.
