Washington, D.C. – On October 16, 2023, the nation witnessed a significant event that not only marked the 28th Anniversary of the Million Man March but also demonstrated the remarkable power of unity, reconciliation, and personal transformation. In an inspiring conversation hosted by Ward 8 Council Member Trayvon White at the D.C. Jail, two former adversaries, Antone White and Edward Muhammad, came together to share their stories of redemption, spirituality, and hope. Their journey of reconciliation, in alignment with the spirit of the Million Man March, has the potential to impact lives and inspire a new generation.
In 1989, two neighborhoods in Northwest Washington, D.C., the 640 (Georgia Ave) Crew and the First Street Crew, were engulfed in a long-standing feud characterized by violence and hatred. This feud persisted for years, resulting in tragic loss of lives and darkening the history of these neighborhoods. One of the key figures involved in this story is Brother Edward Muhammad, a member of the 640 Crew. In 1991, Edward was incarcerated as an adult due to his involvement in a shooting. During his 18-year sentence, he found solace and redemption through his conversion to Islam as taught by the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad. Antone White represents the First Street Crew. He, too, faced the harsh consequences of his actions, serving a 30-year sentence in the federal penitentiary for RICO and Murder charges. During his time behind bars, he also found a path towards redemption through the teachings of Islam.
What is truly remarkable about this story is that these two former adversaries not only reconciled their differences but also joined forces to work together through Our City Ministry, an organization founded by Antone. Every Friday, they visit the D.C. Jail, engaging in meaningful conversations with inmates across all Maximum-Security Housing Units. This outreach program is a testament to their commitment to fostering peace and unity within the community, regardless of past conflicts.
Brother Edward Muhammad’s journey to transformation is a story of faith and resilience. During his 18-year incarceration, he found solace and purpose through the teachings of Islam. Upon his release in 2009, he became a part of Muhammad Mosque #4, where he continued to grow in his faith and commitment to peace. In a testament to the transformative power of faith and unity, Edward shared his thoughts on the event, stating, “I think it was successful based upon our interaction with the inmates that were in attendance. We had a great discussion afterward.” He expressed amazement at the “awesome power of God” and emphasized his newfound brotherly love for Antone, saying, “I love Tone as a brother now!”
On October 16, 2023, as the nation commemorated the 28th Anniversary of the Million Man March, Ward 8 Council Member Trayvon White conducted an essential interview with these two remarkable brothers at the D.C. Jail. The discussion was recorded and broadcast on DCTV, making it accessible to the entire DMV community. Furthermore, the Director of D.C. Jail committed to making this interview mandatory viewing for every inmate before they could access their electronic tablets.
The purpose of this discussion was to humanize past adversaries and show that reconciliation and transformation are possible. Brother Edward and Antone hoped that their journey from conflict to unity would serve as a powerful template for young people entangled in conflicts that often result in tragic outcomes. As Trayvon White wisely put it, “It is important to have the young guys see and humanize their enemies because if they live long enough, they can attain atonement and one day be friends.”
The 28th Anniversary of the Million Man March witnessed a remarkable event that brought to light the transformative power of faith, unity, and reconciliation. Antone White and Edward Muhammad’s journey from adversaries to allies serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all, showing that change is possible, even in the face of longstanding feuds and violence. In the spirit of the Million Man March, their story emphasizes atonement, reconciliation, and responsibility, and it promises to have a profound impact on the lives of those who witnessed this extraordinary conversation.