Salim Muwakkil facts for kids

Salim Muwakkil (born Alonzo James Cannady, January 20, 1947) is an American journalist and writer. He is known for sharing his thoughts on politics and society. He lives in Chicago.

Salim Muwakkil works as a senior editor at In These Times magazine. He also writes opinion pieces for the Chicago Tribune newspaper. His articles often focus on topics important to African-Americans, politics in the Middle East, and how the U.S. deals with other countries.

He was born in New York City. He went to Rutgers University in New Jersey and earned a degree in Political Science in 1973.

Salim Muwakkil's Journey to Journalism

Salim Muwakkil joined the U.S. Air Force in 1964 after finishing high school. He served for five years in Germany. After his service, he returned home in 1969.

He then started studying at Rutgers University. Right after leaving the Air Force, he also joined the Black Panther Party.

Starting His Writing Career

Just before he graduated from college, Muwakkil began his career in journalism. He worked as a reporter for the Associated Press in Newark, New Jersey.

Later, he became involved with the Nation of Islam. He worked as a copy editor and then managing editor for their newspapers, Muhammad Speaks and Bilalian News. He is no longer an active member of that group.

Moving to Chicago

Salim Muwakkil moved to Chicago in 1983. He joined the team at In These Times. He also started writing for the Chicago Sun-Times and the Chicago Tribune.

He even has his own radio show called "The Salim Muwakkil" show on WVON. This is a famous Black radio station in Chicago.

Muwakkil also helps lead groups like the Progressive Media Project. He has taught at several colleges, including Columbia College and Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism.

Awards and Special Recognition

Salim Muwakkil has received many awards for his excellent journalism. Here are some of them:

• 2022 Marcus Garvey History And Education Lifetime Award - Chicago Music Awards
• 2021 Lifetime Achievement Award - Institute of Kemetic Yoga
• 2004 Lillian Award for Excellence in Journalism - Delta Sigma Theta sorority
• 2001 Studs Terkel Award for Journalistic Excellence - Chicago-based Community Media Workshop
• 1997 Black Rose Achievement Award - League of Black Women
• 1994 Top Ten Media Heroes - Institute of Alternative Journalism