Masood Rab was the founding member of the advocacy groups, Coalition of Americans for Pluralism in India (CAPI) and Alliance to Save and Protect America from Infiltration by Religious Extremists (ASPAIRE).
Team Clarion
Mirza Masood Rab, a prominent voice of Muslims and a leader dedicated to the cause of the community, has left a void in the Muslim leadership in the US with his demise in Michigan. The cause of the community was so close to his heart that he remained concerned about the persecution of Muslim minority in India despite his illness in the last few months of life. His death is followed by an endless stream of condolences and tributes from all quarters.
Masood Rab who passed away in his 80s was perturbed by the intemperate remarks made against Prophet Muhammad by leaders of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He was particularly piqued at the inaction of the government in the matter.
Masood Rab, who hails from Hyderabad, India, wore many hats in his lifetime. To start with he was a founding member of the Muslim Community of the Western Suburbs of Detroit (MCWS) and the Crescent Academy. He had the privilege to be a founding member of the advocacy groups, Coalition of Americans for Pluralism in India (CAPI) and Alliance to Save and Protect America from Infiltration by Religious Extremists (ASPAIRE). Through ASPAIRE, he has been constantly creating awareness about the plight of Muslims among American Muslim community and elected representatives to motivate them to voice their opinions against growing intolerance against Muslims in India.
Masood is survived by children, Mobeen, Diba, Aqil, and Aliyah Rab, wife Zia Rab, and brothers Maqsood Baig and Meraj Ali. One of his brothers, Mashood Rabbaig, passed away recently. Details for his janaza (funeral) to be held at MCWS will be announced soon, InshaAllah. Condolences cum prayer meetings for the departed soul will be held later.
Expressing deep grief at the sudden demise of his long-time colleague and friend, and co-founder of ASPAIRE, Dr Shaik Ubaid, said, “Masood Rab was actively involved in advocacy till the very end. He would actively give us advice and directions and participate in remote meetings and discussions. May Allah SWT grant him high stations in Jannatul Firdaus (garden of heaven) and give the bereaved family strength and patience at this hour of grief.”
El-Hajj Mauri Saalakhan of The Aafia Foundation said he had sent Masood Rab, his ‘brother in Islam’, a Father’s Day greeting while inquiring about his health as he was not aware of his passing away. Later, when he was informed about the sad news, he couldn’t believe his ears. He recalled how desperate he was to meet Masood Rab, but was unable to do so because of his sickness.
