On August 31st, after the Zuhr prayer, Surrey Jamea Masjid hosted an unprecedented event — the “Guns, Drugs, and Gangs: Public Safety Forum” at the Masjid’s Multipurpose Hall.
Br. Yusuf Siraj conducted the program with great dedication throughout the forum.
The first speaker, Mufti and Imam Osama Raja, highlighted the challenges facing youth in our community, particularly their involvement in drugs, and shared real-life stories. Following him, MP Sukh Dhaliwa and Mufti Mohamed Mouadh also addressed community issues affecting families and youth.
The keynote speaker was Br. Yusef-Andre Wiley, a former LA Blood gang member who transformed his life and now travels the world sharing his powerful journey. He spoke about his life, including the 22 years he spent in prison, how he embraced Islam, and the harsh realities of gang life. He emphasized the path to redemption and shared impactful incidents from his past.
Several more speakers contributed, sharing their insights and perspectives. The forum concluded with a strong message on how to support youth in critical times, and how to take real action against the gang violence crisis claiming young lives in Surrey.
This was more than just an event — it was a movement. Our children are being targeted by gang recruiters, often through social media, and as a community, we must fight back with the strongest weapon we have: unity. This gathering may very well be the turning point that saves a young person’s life.
Let us always remember: Our children’s futures are in our hands.
