One man, two worlds: Khalid Latif preaches the Friday sermon at the Islamic Cultural Center, also known as the 96th Street Mosque, on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.
(Photo by Stephanie Keith/Special to The Christian Science Monitor)Photos (1 of 1)
When NYPD wears a Muslim topi
Police chaplaincy lets Khalid Latif embody both Islam and American culture.
By Harry Bruinius | Correspondent / March 19, 2009 edition
Photo by Stephanie Keith/Special to The Christian Science Monitor
Religious force: Khalid Latif in his police uniform at New York University.
New York
Around five in the morning one day in the summer of 2007, just as Imam Khalid Latif was preparing for the salatul-fajr, the obligatory prayer between dawn and sunrise, the phone in his small Manhattan apartment began to ring.
He had been up late the night before, having just conducted a nikkah, a Muslim wedding ceremony, for a South Asian couple he knew from New York University, where he served as chaplain. Afterward, he offered to drive a few students back into the city, so he had not gotten home as early as he might have expected.
On the phone was an operations dispatcher from the New York Police Department (NYPD), where Imam Latif also served as a chaplain, having been named only three months earlier to the post. This was his first emergency call: Two cops had been shot, one fatally. He was to go to the hospital to minister to the families and fellow officers of the fallen.
He has had a number of emergency calls since then, but none has been for a Muslim officer or family. The eight members of the NYPD Chaplains Unit – a group of part-timers that includes Roman Catholics, Protestants, and Jews – take turns being on call. But even when the relevant denominational chaplain arrives, the first responder often stays. For six hours, Latif remained with the mother of the slain officer, an Orthodox Christian. She wept the entire time.
Latif recognizes the jarring cultural tableau he often presents to those he ministers. He is young, a 2004 graduate of New York University. Bearded, he wears a topi skullcap with his NYPD blue; his gold police badge bears his Pakistani name prominently. Indeed, part of his ministry, he says, is to help develop a particularly American form of Islam – one fully integrated into the social fabric of the United States.
“Day to day on the job, there’s the sensitivity trainings, culture immersion trainings – but it’s really about being there for Muslims and non-Muslims alike,” Latif says. “It’s a stressful job [for officers], and they need someone to talk to and someone who they feel will have their back, and stand up for them.”
• • •
Few Muslim clerics have attempted to extend their ministries beyond their own folds. In the US, nearly 60 differing ethnicities, cultures, and languages practice varying forms of Islam. The tremulous cadences of the adhan, the Muslim call to prayer, are heard five times daily in parts of New York. But individual Muslim communities have remained mostly insular and separate.
In the past few years, as Latif has become a more visible figure in the emergence of an American form of Islam – he has turned down chaplaincies at Princeton and other universities to stay with the NYPD – he has grappled with how Americans view Muslims in a post-9/11 world. On the other side, as a young leader, he has also been seeking ways for Muslims to take part fully in such a diverse and predominantly non-Muslim culture – one that often remains suspicious and fearful of their beliefs.
And so he often wonders, what does it mean to be both Muslim and American? Like some ethnic Muslim-Americans, “we’re presented with Islam, but we’re not presented with an Islam that necessarily works in the context we’re in,” Latif says. “There’s a lot of questioning of how you remain true to traditional cultural norms … while maintaining yourself and fitting into a broader American society.”
Latif has consciously shaped his ministries to help forge a new kind of Muslim identity, one that confronts this painful clash of traditions. The experience echoes that of Catholic immigrants who a century ago found themselves in a largely Protestant culture suspicious of their beliefs.
Unlike their counterparts in Europe, Muslims in the US tend to be solidly middle class and mainstream. Their incomes and education levels mirror those of the general public, according to a comprehensive 2007 survey by the Pew Research Center. That has helped them fit into the broader society. No one is sure of their numbers, though. Some groups say there are as many as 7 million Muslims in the US. Pew estimates there are 2.35 million throughout the country, mostly in urban areas.
Many devout Muslim immigrants simply try to re-create their traditional cultures in the US, say some scholars. But when their children grow up within the American culture, they adopt American attitudes and values. “What the [older generation] sees is that religion can only survive in their particular cultural matrix,” says Sherman Jackson, professor of Arabic and Islamic Studies at the University of Michigan, a Muslim who has also addressed Latif’s questions. “So their tendency is to take that cultural matrix wherever they go as a means of preserving the religion.”
“In America, we are in a different cultural space, and we are still in the process of trying to develop a culture that resonates with the teachings, the sensibilities, the moral parameters of our religion,” he continues. “What you have are two communities, one who says that Islam already has a cultural expression, the other saying that, no, Islam in America is in the process of developing a cultural expression.”
• • •
Latif’s own religious awakening began his junior year at Wardlaw-Hartridge, a private prep school in Edison, N. J., where he grew up as the youngest of three children. He played defensive back on the football team and was class president. His father, a doctor, had brought his bride to the US in the 1970s. Though not particularly devout in their early years, the family connected with their religious roots during the 1990s.
By his junior year, Latif was taking advantage of his reputation and position as a top student and popular leader to cut class – to attend mosque. But he would arrive there in his prep-school jacket and tie and driving a black Lexus. “I had no idea, I had no comprehension whatsoever, about differences in people’s perceptions of affluence and socioeconomic backgrounds,” he says. “I just wanted to pray. And so it became hard to find someone to teach me.”
At NYU, he continued to explore his religious identity and became a leader in the university’s Muslim student group. After graduating, he became the de facto chaplain. Eventually he attended Hartford Theological Seminary, which has a program in Islamic Studies.
His work at NYU and Princeton, where he also served as a chaplain, attracted the attention of Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who appointed him an NYPD chaplain in April 2007. For Latif, serving in a world-renowned American institution was the perfect opportunity to forge a particularly American form of Islam.
“And now it’s like, how do you mesh together this seeming dichotomy of Islam and the West?” he asks. “When I walk down the street and I’m wearing my uniform, and I also have a beard and my head covered, you see that that’s not a dichotomy, it’s a reality.”
2. Nzinga | 03.19.09
This is a great article. My favorite line is the last one “When I walk down the street and I’m wearing my uniform, and I also have a beard and my head covered, you see that that’s not a dichotomy, it’s a reality.”
3. pthurbon | 03.19.09
I am inspired by this article. I hope that non-Muslims in America can reach out to Muslims and be willing to learn about them and break down prejudices and stereotypes.
4. Asim, San Antonio | 03.19.09
I always believed that Islam is cabaple of adjusting to new enviornments-as it always had. Imam Latif’s example and the healthy socio-economic positioning of Muslims in America, are helathy and clear signs that Islam is taking root in America-an American Islam is develpoing:Muslims can be American and Muslim at once.
5. Maryam Yoshida | 03.20.09
This is a hugely inspiring article. I wish I could meet
Mr. Latif, because I also do cross-religious ministering,
and am a Muslim living in a non-Muslim society. (Japan)
As American Muslims, we are not a ‘dichotomy’ or an
‘aberration’ or a ‘threat’ or a ‘paradox’–we simply ARE
who we are, and we are living according to our faith.
Not trying to ‘define’ ourselves to anybody, but rather
living and serving God. Trying to provide help and
comfort when people are hurting. May God bless
Mr. Latif! Jazaak Allaahu Khairan, from a sister
in faith, with prayers.
6. John S | 03.20.09
A candle light will look good to see and when not kept properly will burn the house, it’s dangerous. America is founded on principles of Holy Bible and it’s playing too dangerously with pluralism, diversity. See those countries these men have come from and you will turn America into ruin soon..
7. Tim Ho | 03.20.09
It takes a special person to become a Police chaplain. As the article very successfully conveys, it takes a very special person to attempt to meld the old world of Islam with the new world of these United States. I hope readers appreciate the serious challenges this fine gentleman is confronting and overcoming. Well Done.
8. Mariam | 03.20.09
Chris: “The reality is that this cop does not change a thing.”
To say that one person doesn’t make a difference is to disregard history. Many times just one person can stand out as a role model or a rallying point. As an example Gandhi called for Muslims and Hindus and Christians and all Indians to pull together and kick out the British. Nelson Mandella was a rallying figure, Jesus inspired a whole new religion.
Latif is not the only Muslim who believes in living in peace but he is a exceptional and surprising example.
“Christians are persecuted across the Islamic world”
I am actually a Christian who grew up in the middle east in a progressive country. Although we didn’t enjoy political freedom (neither did other religions) we were not in any physical danger and given land for churches and allowed to sell Bibles and other Christian material. I know that in less developed countries Christians are persecuted but most Gulf states do not persecute people solely on the basis of their religion.
There is another fantasy land from which people need to get out. It is the fantasy that muslims are devils and full of evil. It is a delusion that all muslims walk around waiting for an opportunity to attack you.
9. Faye | 03.20.09
I cannot believe Chris’s comments were allowed onto this forum. Comparing Islam to Nazism is ridiculous and a closeminded, ignorant opinion. I believe in freedom of speech, which is why I’m using that freedom to tell Chris that his arrogance gives humankind a bad name
10. Jonathan | 03.20.09
Islam to Nazism? Is that really a fair debate? We’re reading an article about a man who doesn’t believe one religion is better than another, and that peace is the best faith, and a commentor will compare one of the world’s first religions, (of the Big Three) to a fabricated war-time group that conceded to the killing of millions in gas chambers and sparked a world war? I don’t believe that is a fair argument or statement.
11. ma | 03.20.09
Yes, This is a hugely inspiring article. Being fair, truthfull and always looking for something new is what keeps csm one of the most respectable magazines out there. thank you
13. Razia | 03.20.09
To chris
We the humanbeing is the creation by our God.We should respect humanity.Islam does not allow to hate humankind following other faith.I would strongly advise chris &likewise to become knowledgeable about Islam.internet can be a good source.I am a muslim by birth but very knowledgeable about christianity and other faith.Let me tell you whatever faith one follows limitted knowledge can be vary dangerous to humanbeing.May our GOD help us to refrain from hatred.
Brother Latif is not only a good muslim but a great caring humanbing.May Aullah(SWT) give you more strength.
14. SM | 03.20.09
Thanks for this article!! It lifted my spirits and gave me great hope. Lately, I have only heard negative comments about Pakistanis in my community. It was depressing. After reading this article, it reaffirmed my belief in Pakistani people. Way to go Khalid Latif! Keep at it!
15. Habib | 03.20.09
My grandparents came to this country in the 1930’s and I consider myself third generation American and muslim. What brother Latif has done is very inspiring and progressive. We muslims must become part of our new adopted country and take part in the fabric of what this country represents. Islam has alot to offer and we must be the conduits to other communities and foster a closer understanding. Thank you brother Latif.
16. Khadeeja | 03.20.09
I am a Muslim law student. My family traces back to PRE-Revolutionary war times in this country. In fact members of my family served during the Revolutionary war to give birth to this country. I am American through and through. I find nothing inconsistent with being both a Muslim and an American. I love them both. I do not agree with oppressive regimes in the Middle East, nor do I accept some of the recent legislation in my own country that has in my opinion violated the most American of documents, The Constitution. The article makes mention of the Muslim community being insular. I believe that as the Muslim population becomes more native, to this country, this will not be the case. Immigrants are busy working long hours and days. This is a requirement to establish themselves in this country and provide for family they left back home. These long hours don’t allow for much outside interaction. I am glad to see the Muslims who are contributing to the community and the world. Keep up the good work to all!
17. Abukar | 03.20.09
I just wanted to thank you everything you are the best, May Allaah bless you everyday for what you do this world, I am inspired by this article. I hope that non-Muslims in America can reach out to Muslims and be willing to learn about them and break down prejudices and stereotypes. Islam is Peace my heart is sink when I read his article
Thanks again
Abukar A Abukar
18. Barry Cohen | 03.20.09
An outstanding article on what We Americans need to expect from ourselves.
Our new Muslim neighbors, co-workers and parents to our children’s playmates have unnecessarily suffered discrimination and rejection from our recent unenlightened community morals.
In California, all faiths share concern for economic problems, education deficiencies, neighborhood issues and reticence from our children to fully adopt cultural patterns handed us by our parents. Oh my, Muslim’s make great neighbors,community members and social contribution.
Increasingly, I realize how insulting, unreasonable, overtly unnecessarily hurtful anti-Muslim, westerners are perceived, by opposing and rejecting wearings of head covers by our new Muslim invitees. We, westerners, are perceived attacking Islam and it is not inconceivable that heinous activities by Muslim extremists are seen by their notorious actors in self-protection than direct attack against formidable Western forces aimed and armed to create a decidely secular threatening unwelcomed cultures throughout the Arab world.
We need more personal contact, mutual exposure, social tolerance and community comminging to establish and earn mutual respect, appreciation and admiration needed to reflect and instill our U.S. Constitutional promises among all members of society. It is not always as simple and easy as the sons and daughters of other immigrant groups remember from family stories. Yet, there is almost inevitability of success over time.
19. Frank | 03.21.09
Great article. Did not know that the NYPD had such a diverse group of chaplains.
20. Amy | 03.21.09
I don’t mind having Muslims in America. America is so great because of all of the diversity here. What is happening in Briton will not happen hear. Muslims are welcome to come but they is no way in hell America will ever follow Sharia law. I’m not worried about anything.
21. Usman | 03.21.09
We sometimes have articles such as the above here in the UK and you never get comments such as America is founded on principles of Holy Bible and it’s playing too dangerously with pluralism, diversity. See those countries these men have come from and you will turn America into ruin soon..
anti-diversity = racism.
we never get comments comparing Islam to Nazism.
And for that I am so glad i live in the UK, and not US.
22. coolpolitealex | 03.21.09
great attempt at getting it right ,well done ,we must read more positive stories of integration and yes there is going to be problems but like this person he seem’s now to except the problems and finds ways to reach out to everyone well done latif
23. indie | 03.21.09
Interesting article. The Muslims need more members like this young man, but to truly become productive members of society, they have to work to treat women within their religion much better than they do. Only when they begin speaking out against Sharia law will they gain acceptance. Sharia law, honor killings, and the general treatment of women in the Islamic faith is abhorrent, and only when they put a stop to that will their religion be acceptable in the eyes of the West.
Now, for the other side of the coin, check out Newsweek’s article entitled Jihad Chic Comes to London here:
http://www.newsweek.com/id/189241
Its an eye opener.
24. Mary | 03.21.09
A beautiful story of one of inspiring jobs Muslims are doing in America. It was nice to read the whole story. Imam Latif is an inspiration for all regardless of religious backgrounds.
Thank you Harry Bruinius for covering such an article. We want to see more stories like this that create cultural bridges among people of different religions.
Thanks to Harry Bruinius again.
25. Khalid (bryan) - nyc | 03.21.09
First, as background, I’m an American Muslim convert (the white kind for what it’s worth) who tries to stick to the wide path of Islam in both outer and inner ways, only by Allah’s tawfeek (enabling grace) if at all. And most Americans who know me (family or even well heeled colleagues) would say I’m very integrated into a functional American life.
But, what has occurred to me over my years as a Muslim in America is that to be true to Islam - traditional Islam as it has been for all the generations, not some extreme salifi or nominal liberal Islam - one must forgo a lot of American culture. Simply finding an honest (”halal”) income is no small feat.
I’m sure I would love to meet my brother Imam Latif and we’d get along splendidly, it occurs to me that while being an NYPD chaplain may be completely consistent with Islam (or it may not be), being a Muslim NYPD officer may not be a “halal” profession for a Muslim (or it may be). I’m not qualified to judge this, but certainly a Muslim is required to live within the laws of the land he resides or to emigrate out of that land. But a Muslim is not required to uphold through force (ie, police) the civil or otherwise non-Islamic laws of a non-Muslim land.
I do love the majority of these comments that embrace open mindedness towards people of different faiths, but Muslims have to be fair to ourselves in identifying the boundaries of our belief. What Muslim is willing to die responding to a liquor store robbery?
26. syed Rashid | 03.22.09
Thanks for the Inspiring article,the reality is that everyday millions of American Muslims are living and working side by side with all the diverse American groups and face the same challenges and enjoy the rewards of their hard work.Islam,Judaism and christianity have coexisted peacefully and thrived for many centuries,sharing and exchanging Ideas,science and knowledge. There is no reason to pose a question if Islam and west can coexist,muslim culture in differeent parts of the world may vary but the morality of Islam,Judaism and Christianity is the same.Please present more articles of this nature in the future.
27. Bilal | 03.23.09
A few months ago….I used to be working in downtown Manhattan…on a Friday I was trying to find the closest mosque for the Friday prayers…happened to land myself @ NYU….I was in a hurry to say my prayers & get back to work…when brother Khalid started his sermon….15 minutes later…I was in shock & awe…..this guy was no ordinary speaker….his message too…..had an overwhelming impact….I found myself teary eyed…& knew he had struck a chord….somewhere deep inside my heart. I made sure I didn’t miss any of his lectures for as long as I worked in that area.
Brother Khalid…this message is to thank you…for raising the bar….not just for yourself…but for the rest of us as well…..& this message is also for those who don’t know this person…that… he is the person to know…!!
28. Mustapha | 03.23.09
Assalamu alaikum,may Allah give him the zeal & humility to forge ahead despite the challenges (ameen).
29. Kar | 03.24.09
I think that it’s important to note that not only is he Muslim, he is also of Pakistani descent. As with the Christian faith, there are so many traditions, heritages and cultures that it’s important to show the diversity in Islam. It’s not just one or two stereotypes in the public’s mind but breaking those down.
Growing up in the US Army chaplaincy, this article reinforces the belief that “a chaplain’s a chaplain.” There’s a special brotherhood between the clergy regardless of their faith or traditions.
31. thamreen | 03.29.09
Mashallah that is awesome. His upbringing and background are incredible and amazing to see the results and the things he has chosen to do with his life and the obvious impact he must have on people who do and do not know him.
Great article — Jazkhallah for the story.
32. Khanzada | 03.30.09
Muslims,jews christians have been living in harmony for a long long time.why don’t we get along now,after all this transitory life is very short.
33. Muhammad | 04.01.09
Great article. What a nice young man. Makes me proud as a Muslim, American, and native New Yorker.
34. Neha | 04.10.09
Great article - I had no idea that the police chaplain community was so diverse.
35. Nick Wreden | 06.25.09
Great story for me for two reasons. One is that I am an American living in a Muslim country, and can relate to the issue of fitting in vs. being true to a faith. The second reason is that I am working on a book about cultural, ethnic and religious branding, and the story helped provide a good perspective on those issues.
36. albert | 08.01.09
I salute this man and his work.
Those of us of religious faiths tend to forget who our faith is really for; not for ourselves alone but for others also.
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1. DH | 03.19.09
Excellent article - thank you for showing the amazingly positive possibilities when American Muslims embrace both religion & nationality. It’s not an ‘either or’ paradigm, but a mutually beneficial blending of both. Just as so many earlier religious minorities to the US have integrated successfully into our pluralistic society - Muslims will eventually find their place alongside Jews, Catholics, Mormons, etc.