Qasim Basir

I Am a Muslimerican

2010-08-19T18:02:07-04:00

While standing in line at the airport, it's no longer a question. I approach the counter and immediately tell them to call their manager because they'll need extra approval to allow me on the plane. When finally in my seat answering a phone call, the looks I get from surrounding passengers as I greet with "Asalamu Alaikum" is a type of fear that I've never seen, one that cannot possibly be sustained in the face of all that this nation is up against.

I was raised in Michigan, where I always attended public schools. I was a decent student, played sports, served on student organizations and was even homecoming king. I have always believed in the ideals of this country, and because of that, I beat the odds and followed my dreams of becoming a working film writer and director. But at some point, I and many others who share my faith became the Other. I became one of "them."

When I turn on the TV and see another broadcast displaying Muslim extremism or terrorism, it makes me cringe. This feeling persists primarily because there are people doing these terrible things in the name of Islam. They go against everything Muslims are supposed to represent and make the lives of many people here very difficult. We have to live in fear not only of terrorists but also of being associated with them. To make things worse, there has been an unyielding and unapologetic attempt to push it in our faces for the last decade. If we're talking real numbers here, Al Qaeda represents less than 0.1 percent of the world's Muslim population. How can the actions of such a small percentage serve as the representation of a group so large?

Now this idea has manifested itself in a crucial debate, and the issue on the table has the potential to deny American citizens their basic constitutional rights. There needs to be the recognition of the problem of this argument at its core: by going against the building of a mosque near Ground Zero, you're essentially associating the ideals of extremism and terrorism with every peace-practicing Muslim American. I am appalled by this association and disappointed that so many fellow Americans have taken that stance instead of believing in what this country has represented since its birth. If this freedom is defeated, I fear what's to come.

This is not a plea for sympathy; it is a call to character. It's not a question of whether or not we should or shouldn't. Once we get past the unreasonable debates fueled by emotions and illegitimate accusations, we know what's right. As the leaders of the free world, we cannot afford another embarrassment of this magnitude on our record. It will again, in a crucial time of rebuilding, question our validity for years to come.

When I wrote my film "MOOZ-lum," which speaks about the Muslim-American experience, I had no idea so much would be at stake; I simply wanted to give a voice to a generation that is often drowned out by the heavy volume of extremism. But alas, here we are. And I'm willfully submitting my film into the discussion, hoping that it will be able to shed some light and humanize a group of people who have been demonized for far too long.

When all is said and done, the compelling statement of freedom that the construction of this mosque represents can be an ultimate sign of our country's progression.

I hope you enjoy the trailer.

Salaam (Peace)

The Inspiration of Barack: McReagan, 40 Years Later

2008-11-03T17:47:54-05:00

As we approach the final days before the biggest, most important election of our time, we must all give it one final push toward the finish line. This has been a long journey, significant to each of us in its own way, important to us all the same. But while we approach the beginning of what many consider to be the reconstruction of this great country, do not think for a second that the journey is complete.

Am I a little nervous? Yes, but far more optimistic. In my travels, there's been a lot to see. Some negative, but by far, mostly positive. I would like to be a witness for those who have not been able to see. To provide a little more confidence for those who are lacking. Know that this movement is happening and it's real. From Columbia University to California State, it's very real. And I am proud to be a part of it, as you should be. Let us be confident but not complacent. After all, we cannot allow history to repeat itself.

All you have to do is look back forty years ago. Although I wasn't alive, it seems as though a similar journey was taking place. There were movements ranging from anti-war, black power, women's rights, sexual revolution, etc. It was a time when the American people realized that it was not only OK to question government, but it was our right. Those who lived it can speak on it much better. But for those of us who didn't, all we have to compare it to is the movement of now. And though we still have number of issues, war, economy, immigration, gay rights, etc., There's a more universal understanding of exactly what we need to do. Never will I criticize what took place in the 60's, I've always admired so much about the strength it took to stand up as they did. The protests, marches, sit in's, etc. got us very far in terms of this countries progress, but they scared the right & center so much that they also got us Reagan. We won't let this happen again. This time we are not scared, more people than ever understand exactly what has to happen. That we cannot afford to let the progression of this movement end with another Reagan, or in this case, McCain.

You might ask, what can be done now? Let me tell you. You can literally go grab someone, take them to the polls and make sure they vote. Not just anyone, someone who you think wouldn't do it on their own. I don't know everything, but this is fact; This day will never come again. Just as yesterday is gone, and today will pass, you only have one opportunity to live out each individual moment. This is that opportunity. Take it while it's here. No regrets.

I wasn't able to post all of the shorts from our series throughout the process, but I'd like to take this opportunity to lay everything on the line and show them all. So on Monday, Nov. 3rd, for the whole day, you can view all 7 shorts here: www.codeblacktv.com

This is my final effort to give some sort of inspiration. I hope it helps.

The Inspiration of Barack: What Does it Take?!

2008-10-09T16:57:46-04:00

After eight screenings from NY to MI, "Yes We Can" reached 150,000 views on YouTube and received comments from all across the board. I am pleased by the incredible amount of support and trying my hardest to find ways to get the message across to some who are still having trouble understanding. Given the current state of this country, it baffles me to try and comprehend what makes some feel as though McCain/Palin are ones who would enhance our overall well being. Are you watching the debates, tallying up all the lies?

Our country is hurting. It is a pain that goes beyond the state of the economy, war or housing crisis. And although they are not ones to be entrusted to correct those issues either, they are most certainly not the ones to deal with the issues I'm speaking of here.

I think it's more an issue of understanding. Ignorance does not mean stupid, the definition is "One who is lacking in knowledge," or "not knowing." There is an entire story here that is missing for a lot of people who are ignorant to what's happening in this country and the world and the direction we potentially could go with someone like Barack. Some choose to take a blind eye, others don't have much of a choice. But to those of us whom it is apparent, we must make it our duty to help others understand. Tell people your story and what this means to you. These stories are important and they make this movement real. They make people understand that it's about US. Whether superficial or profound, each of your stories means something. I will start by telling mine.

If you haven't noticed by my picture, I am a Black Man, African American, however you'd like to frame it. Throughout my life, I've been the victim of a tremendous amount of discrimination and yes, I was born in the 80's. As a younger man, people would lock their doors as I walked past their vehicles. I have been pulled over for unjust reasons so many times I can't even count. In college, after a late night of studying I would walk home from the library and see a young Caucasian woman who would look back at me in fear and speed up while clutching her bag. And in every study that has been done to identify the most feared person in this country, I, the Black man, have consistently been the winner. I'm not bitter about this, I've had to deal with it on many levels. I understand where it comes from and I've dedicated a good part of my life trying to erase the ignorance from which it is rooted. My point is that a few months ago I walked into an Obama volunteer office in Philadelphia, PN and decide to stay an extra day or two to help out. An old Caucasian woman, who under many other circumstances in my life has been afraid of me, embraced me and offered me a place to stay. There's something to be said about that. I cannot think of anything in my lifetime that has had this kind of effect. People are beginning to understand what needs to be done, putting differences aside and coming together. It's happening all over the place. And we all probably have stories similar to this which are all a result of this movement.

Now I ask, why wouldn't someone want this kind of change to happen? It seems only right. I challenge anyone to show me any signs of this or any kind of progress from McCain/Palin. Current progress. Not the ability to see Russia from her house, or build bridges to nowhere, or being a P.O.W. I'm talking about now, in this countries state. And please don't ask me what Obama's going to do for this country when he gets in office. Because the fact is, he's not even our president yet and he's already done a hell of a lot.

I said I would post a new video every week, but for sake of appropriateness I'd like to repost "Yes We Can" -- Vote. I feel as though it's very significant to the audience I'm trying to reach. It's like tough love, my metaphorical slap to my fellow Americans, who I believe in so much, which says, as Grandma says, "WAKE UP! It's a new day." Please wake up, we need you. This is going to take an effort from us all.

For more information about all seven videos and the tour, please visit us at www.yeswecantour.com

The Inspiration of Barack: Back to Message -- "Vote"

2008-09-23T15:05:09-04:00

We've had our first two screenings of the Series and the "Yes We Can" Tour has begun. As a result, my vision has become clear. The message I must convey is obvious and I've found my voice!

As I remained planted in my seat in the back of the theater at Tribeca Cinemas in New York City, I tensely awaited a response from a focused audience. Maybe their unwavering concentration to the screen should've lightened my tension, knowing that most don't give much attention to that they aren't interested in, but it didn't. My heart never stopped racing and I never cooled off. This would be the first time I've showed the series to a group of more than four people, in front of a group who was non-partial, didn't have to tell me they liked it because they were my "friends," and, my first time screening any type of "political" material. This all contributed to these uncustomary, uneasy feelings.

Since we were playing all seven videos straight through, there wasn't to be any applause until the end. That all changed when we reached the end of the 6th, "Yes We Can -- Vote." The crowd unexpectedly erupted in applause. Mike and I looked at each other and without saying a word, knew that we were on to something. At that moment, I was no longer nervous. I was ready to speak, listen and answer any questions. The series came to an end and the applause was amazing.

So we thanked the audience and opened the floor for questions and comments. The general consensus was the same: this series brought people back to message. When I first wrote the series I didn't have a clear picture of exactly what I was going to do with it. I tend to trust and follow my heart most of the time, even when the path isn't as clear. But the general response, I came to realized that I wrote these very scripts for the purposes of Inspiring people to do their part and getting them back to message. An older woman raised her hand and said, "In the midst of all the latest distractions, Sarah Palin, etc, I'd begun to lose focus of the bigger picture. But this series was so refreshing because it made me remember why I was ever inspired in the first place." That, plus other comments helped guide me as I spoke of my motivation for this. I was moved by the audience and I felt honored to be able, through this series, to pass on the Inspiration of Barack.

Now I know. And like those screenings, this will be our message moving forward. We'll get people inspired to volunteer, register voters and make sure that people understand that in order for any kind of change to happen, we have to do our part. Every time Obama speaks, he makes it a point to say "It's up to US." The sooner we recognize that, the better off we'll be. Do your part. Remember why we all fell in love with this movement in the first place. "We are the ones we've been waiting for" -- Barack Obama.

The video for this week is entitled "Yes We Can -- Vote". The idea behind this one is to make people realize that it's never too late to find your own voice. It will always be more difficult, but most certainly more fulfilling. Despite the odds, you must stand up for what you believe in.

The next screenings will be in Michigan next week (9/25 - 9/29). If you are in Michigan and would like to get more details, please visit our website.

"Yes We Can -- VOTE"

The Inspiration of Barack: "Yes We Can" -- College

2008-09-09T12:44:00-04:00

In my previous blog I failed to mention much about the process we undertook in order to complete the series. By no means was it easy, and it took everything we had to pull together resources and finish. From receiving free assistance from usually well paid professionals, to raising most of the funds through donations from friends. We had people from all over coming out to help, Oren Goldenberg from Michigan, James Yi from San Francisco and a host of other volunteers. That's why what we did here is so significant. We took a page out of Obama's book and were successful at it. Almost like a prototype, test, or a living example of how his plan for this country can really work. A grass roots effort, people pulling together with a common purpose, even without all the necessary means, can make something positive and significant happen. I like to say that we accomplished this with nothing but Hope.

I understand the hesitancy to step out there on Hope. We have been so disenfranchised by this current government that we no longer even know what it means. That's why there are still people out there who actually think McCain would be better for this country. They don't know what hope feels like and the tremendous effects it's capable of having. I'm here to say, it's real. It is the story of my life. I've been in so many different situations where maybe I shouldn't have prevailed, but I did. One recent example is this film series. That's why Obama's message resonates so well with me.

As promised, I will be uploading one short per week. The first I'm going to show is "Yes We Can" - College. I wrote this one not just for those discouraged by their inability to achieve higher educational endeavors, but for anyone who doesn't believe they're capable of doing something that's usually out of the ordinary. In many of our lives, we feel comfort in the norm: "My mother and father have always done it this way, so there's no way I can do it the way my heart tells me I should." Huh? When we decide to ignore our hearts and do what's simple, it becomes unnatural. Then comes the unhappiness, stress, sickness and pain. Do not fight your heart, follow it. Be that person who is locked up inside you waiting to break out. Have the courage to stare at the face of your fears and say "Yes, I can." And if you don't think you have the nerve to do so, look at someone like Obama and like we did, take a page out of his book. Some of us are brave enough to do so ourselves, some need guidance. Don't be afraid to follow when you are provided a leader like this.

Think of our country in its current state. Think about the foremost conversations in restaurants, elevators and front porches. I'm almost certain that you're thinking of things that are not very positive (economy, gas, Bush, etc). Then try to shift your thinking to something different. Think of our entire country being hopeful. Take a second and imagine that. Yes, this country has great potential. Please, do your part in helping us reach that potential. First things first, lets get this man in the white house.

I hope you enjoy the first short. Also, if you are in the New York area we're having a screening of all seven, plus the behind the scenes video on Friday, September 12th at 7pm @Tribeca Cinemas (54 Varick St.). If you're interested in coming, you must RSVP to: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gpltwm

The Inspiration of Barack: "Yes We Can" Film Series

2008-09-07T04:31:41-04:00

I could sit here all day writing down the reasons why I support Barack Obama. In my lifetime, I don't remember another person who has been more influential. He is intelligent, logical, strong, honest, dedicated, honorable, passionate and -- most of all -- inspirational. He has inspired me, a usually self-motivated individual, to try to be a better person overall. I sometimes find myself in situations where I have a choice do my best or just get by. And something in me refers back to something Obama may have said about making this country better. Then I realize that if I can do better in all of my endeavors and we all do the same as a collective nation, this place can actually get better. Hmm, how basic does that seem? Well, that's how Obama makes things, basic, logical and attainable. And this is fact, he is the only one right now who can take this country in the fundamentally new direction in which it needs to go.

As a filmmaker, I wanted to do something to support this man that I truly admired. As it happened, one of my filmmaker friends in Los Angeles, Mike Lynch, was thinking along the same lines as I was. So I received a call late one night in my small New York studio. Mike says, "Qasim, we need to do something to support Obama." That call sparked the flame in me to stay up that night and draft up some ideas for a short film series. This series would capture the quality that I most appreciated about Barack Obama, The Inspiration of Barack: "Yes We Can" Film Series.

I refer to them as "Seven American Stories of Hope." They're about different people facing some sort of hardship in their lives who become inspired by Obama to take an essential step forward. I hope most people will be able to relate to at least one of them. I hope everyone will be inspired by them all. All of the titles begin with "Yes We Can" and are followed by College, Economy, Family, Housing, Immigration, Vote and War. You can probably guess from the titles what each of them represent.

Each week I'm going to post one of the videos. I'll also discuss why I did it, its significance and why it's relevant to what's happening today. They will also be displayed at different screenings around the country. I'll keep you informed as to when and where these screenings will occur and how to get tickets.