05/18/2018
ANNOUNCEMENT FROM REV. KHADER EL-YATEEM
I came to Bay Ridge, Brooklyn 23 years ago, with the initial mission to start and support a congregation for Arab Lutherans. Little did I know upon my arrival that this would become my home, where I would raise my children, make countless friends, work together with my neighbors, and help to build a thriving community. A place that I would eventually run for office, and would successfully build a political voice for the Arab and Muslim community. Throughout the years, I have grown to know and love so many people in this neighborhood, and to deeply respect what we have been able to accomplish together in times of loss, division, and crisis. It is clear to me now that my mission was not actually about strengthening a single congregation - but about strengthening and empowering a neighborhood, and helping neighbors to see each other with dignity and respect.
It is with that same mission that I will be leaving this month, to start a new chapter and a new role in South Florida, as the Assistant to the Bishop and Director of Evangelical Mission. I will be overseeing over 200 congregations in budding immigrant communities, and helping the churches within them to become more inclusive, diverse, and welcoming to all. Sadly, this role will mean leaving the home that I have loved, and that we helped to build together. But I see this decision as the one that will best support myself and my family, and will allow me to continue the work of the church, who gave me the gift of bringing me to Brooklyn in the first place
When I ran for office last year, I didn't do it for myself - I did it for my community. A community that people told us "didn't vote." We proved that assumption wrong, and then some. But there is still so much work to do, and that work doesn't depend on a single individual, or a single candidate - the work will continue without me. Which is why, amidst my departure, I am excited to announce the launch of a new political organization called Yalla Brooklyn, a 501(c)4 that will continue building the political voice of underrepresented communities, increasing voter turnout, and making political education accessible for all. Yalla is the Arabic word for "Let's Go," and we chose it to emphasize our willingness to roll up our sleeves and do the work ourselves. Last night, we elected the Executive Committee for the organization - a diverse and talented group of immigrants, young Arab and Muslim leaders, and allies. They will help to ensure Yalla Brooklyn builds on the successes of our campaign and prepares for the next one. My departure is a new beginning, and I am excited for the future that this group promises.
I will begin my transition to Florida at the end of this month, and my family will be transitioning throughout the summer. I will hold my last mass at Salam Arabic Lutheran Church on Sunday, May 20th at 11:15 AM. (414 80th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11209). I would like to invite anyone who would like to come, to celebrate all we have accomplished together throughout the past few decades.
Thank you for all you have taught me, and all that you have invested in me and in our neighborhood. God bless!
