MARIAM: W/ Dr. Debra Majeed and Imam Sulaimaan Hamed and Mrs. Shahidah Sharif

Debra Majeed  is Professor of Religious Studies at Beloit College. She is a religious historian who has made the interconnection between religion, gender and justice central to her life’s work. She is the first African American female and first Muslim to be tenured in the 162-year history of Beloit College. Her contributions to social justice on the campus and in the larger community led the City of Beloit to proclaim January 21, 2011, "Dr. Debra Majeed Day." (Link to video: https://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=10150126606993243&oid=22344958636&comments&ref=mf) 

From opposite coasts, Imam Sulaimaan Hamed and Sister Shahidah Sharif had similar upbringings being born and raised as Muslim Americans. Their paths intersected 15 years ago in Damascus, Syria where they were both studying at the Abu Nour University. After many meetings, excursions, a journey to Makkah for Umrah, and much in common, they married while continuing their studies. Over the years, they have committed themselves to the progress of Muslim Americans through their company Hajj Pros as well as working and teaching in various cities across the country and internationally. Currently, Sulaimaan serves as the resident Imam of the Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam. They are raising their son and daughter in East Atlanta.