For some time now I have been publicizing the plight of bassist Tarik Shah, a fine jazz musician of African-American heritage and Muslim faith who has played and recorded with Betty Carter, the Duke Ellington Orchestra, Ahmad Jamal, Melba Joyce, Abbey Lincoln, Claudio Roditi, Donald Smith, and many others. And though Tarik has had a life in the music at fairly stellar levels, he has also long been a humble mainstay in small Harlem jazz clubs such as St. Nick's Pub, playing there regularly twice a week and often encouraging and supporting younger musicians. Meanwhile, he's taught martial arts to children, supplemented his musician's income as a baker, selling his delicious pies from the back of a car, and to this day is one of the most beloved members of the Harlem and Bronx communities.
However, last spring Tarik Shah was arrested on “suspicion of conspiracy" for some things he is accused of saying in conversation with fellow Muslims. He is suspected of having thoughts, spoken words, and/ or companions the government doesn't like, and though not actually charged with committing a crime, he has been held in solitary confinement ever since...." (article continued here).
Margaret Davis
Please visit the website and show your support - the could happen to any of us! I.B.C. Incarceration by Conversation
For more information contact All About Jazz.
