Annual Protest in Washington, DC
On Monday, April 7, 2025, approximately 800 protestors gathered in front of the Saudi Embassy in Washington, DC, to mark the somber anniversary of the razing of the shrines at Baqee cemetery on the 8th of Shawal. Despite soggy weather with rain and chilly winds, the event was a powerful display of unity and determination, with participants from New York, New Jersey, Maryland, and Chicago joining in solidarity.
Event Highlights
The protest began with Prayers, led by Moulana Mehboob Mehdi Abidi from Chicago, setting a reflective tone for the day. Following the prayer, fiery speeches were delivered by youth speaker Zaina Khan and eminent scholars, including Sheikh Abdul Jalil, Sheikh Husham Al-Husainy, Sayyid Sulayman Hasan Abidi, and Saiyed Mehboob Mehdi Abidi. Their messages underscored the historical and spiritual significance of Baqee, calling for justice and the cemetery's restoration.
A Diverse and Resilient Gathering
The crowd was a testament to the event's broad appeal, with women, children, the elderly, and youth all braving the elements to make their voices heard. Despite the rain and wind, the protestors' resolve never wavered, as they held up banners, Baqee flags, and meaningful placards throughout the day.
Visuals of Solidarity
The protest was marked by striking visuals that captured the spirit of the event. A large purple sign reading "JANNAT-UL-BAQEE 'TREE GARDEN OF HEAVEN'" stood at the center of the gathering, while protestors carried signs like "OUR RIGHT TO REBUILD AL BAQEE" and "DEMAND BAQEE NOW." Purple flags and banners fluttered in the wind, adding to the sense of unity. One particularly powerful banner read, "DESTROYED IN 1926, 1344 Hijri BY AL-SAUD," reminding all of the historical injustice being protested.
Prayers, led by Moulana Mehboob Mehdi Abidi from Chicago
The protestors held up banners, Baqee flags, and meaningful placards throughout the day. Despite the rain and wind, the protestors' resolve never wavered
A large purple sign reading "JANNAT-UL-BAQEE 'TREE GARDEN OF HEAVEN'"
Youth protestors marching with banners that read "DESTROYED IN 1926, 1344 Hijri BY AL-SAUD," & “Women Claim Their Place Among Jannatul Baqee’s GUIDING LIGHT” reminding all of the historical injustice being protested
Protestors marched through the streets of Washington, DC, undeterred by the challenging conditions, chanting slogans and waving flags, including the American flag, to symbolize their call for justice.
Flags of Al Baqee, fluttering in the winds of Washington DC
A Successful Event Despite the Weather
The protest was a resounding success, with participants undeterred by the challenging conditions. Their dedication was evident as they marched through the streets of Washington, DC, chanting slogans and waving flags, including the American flag, to symbolize their call for justice. The event not only honored the legacy of Baqee but also demonstrated the strength and resilience of the community.
Visuals of Solidarity
The event culminated in a protest walk from the Saudi Embassy to the White House, with participants chanting slogans and delivering short 30-second speeches. Mariam Jafri MC'd the event, which symbolized the protestors' unwavering commitment to their cause.
This protest is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and the restoration of Baqee cemetery. The unity and determination displayed by the protestors, despite the weather, reflect the profound significance of this cause to people across the world.