Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf is an American former professional basketball player. He played in the National Basketball Association for nine years with the Denver Nuggets, Sacramento Kings and Vancouver Grizzlies.

In 1991, he converted to Islam, changing his name officially in 1993. A few years later, Abdul-Rauf found himself embroiled in significant controversy when he began to refuse to stand for the national anthem prior to games. “I’m a Muslim first and a Muslim last,” Abdul-Rauf has said of his actions. “My duty is to my creator, not to nationalistic ideology.”

He did it quietly, before the media turned it into a firestorm. He was suspended in 1996 but he’d begun to think about his protest of American oppression and tyranny many months prior. After his suspension, Abdul-Rauf compromised with the league and stood, but simultaneously said a silent Islamic prayer, closing his eyes and looking downward.

To learn more about Abdul-Rauf’s life, join us at the library on Thursday, February 9th at 6pm.

*NEW: Valet parking is now available the evening of.

*This event does not require registration or tickets and seating is on a first come first serve basis.

Here is the Showtime’s blurb about the documentary:

STAND

Rated TVMA • 107 minutes

Raw and unflinching examination of the courageous life of basketball star and social justice activist Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf. Born Chris Jackson, he overcame tremendous adversity to reach the NBA and found his true calling when he converted to Islam. His decision not to stand for the national anthem, however, turned him from prodigy to pariah. Told candidly by Abdul-Rauf himself more than 20 years later it’s the remarkable story of one man who kept the faith and paved the way for a social justice movement.