Muslims Gather Outside Saudi Embassy in DC for Annual ‘Baqee Day’ to Protest Destruction of Islamic Heritage

Jannatul Baqee, an ancient and revered Islamic cemetery in Medina, Saudi Arabia, remains at the center of global calls for restoration as Muslim communities worldwide prepare to commemorate Baqee Day on April 7, 2025. The cemetery holds immense significance as the resting place of numerous close family members of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), including his son Ibrahim, daughters Ruqayyah, Umm Kulthum, and Fatima al-Zahra (according to some narrations), and revered Imams such as Hasan al-Mujtaba, Zainul Abideen, Muhammad al-Baqir, and Jafar as-Sadiq.

On April 21, 1926 (8th Shawwal 1344 A.H.), the Saudi government demolished the tombs and shrines at Jannatul Baqee, leaving behind an unmarked graveyard devoid of visible structures. This act was widely condemned by scholars and followers across different Islamic traditions and continues to be a source of grief for many Muslims globally.

Baqee Day, observed annually on the 8th of Shawwal, commemorates this destruction and advocates for the reconstruction of the site. Organized by the Al-Baqee Organization, this year’s Baqee Day features coordinated events across multiple countries.

In Washington, D.C., a peaceful protest is scheduled for April 7, 2025, outside the Saudi Arabian Embassy, beginning at 1:00 PM. In Pakistan, a protest and religious gathering will be held on April 4 at Imam Bargah Shuhda-e-Karbala in Karachi. Hyderabad, India, will host a two-day observance with a Majlis-e-Aza on April 5 and a protest on April 6 at Dharna Chowk.

Through these global efforts, organizers aim to raise awareness, promote religious freedom, and urge the Saudi authorities to permit the rebuilding of the destroyed heritage site in a manner respectful to all Muslims.

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