Kareem Said

Grew up… in a nation that once enslaved his people. Kareem Said changed his name when he converted to Islam. Once, long ago, he was known by his “slave” name, Goodson Truman.

Living… in the Oswald State Penitentiary. Said preaches non-violence, but that does not mean that he’s not dangerous. He wants to destroy Oz by whatever means necessary. “You wanna save this place, right?” he asks Unit Manager Tim McManus. “And I wanna destroy it. Brick by hypocritical brick.”

Profession… leader of Oz’s Muslim community. Kareem Said is a powerful spiritual leader. He sees Islam as the African-Americans’ way out of societal oppression and injustice. His loyalty lies with Allah and his African brothers, though Said will not discriminate when the big battle against oppression is being fought: “My brothers remain behind. Imprisoned. Suppressed. I don’t just mean my Muslim brothers; I mean every single man who will sleep in here tonight.”

Interests… the Koran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. For all of Kareem’s sanctimonious posturing, he can be a violent (or at least violent-minded) man. He was sent to Oz for burning down a white-owned factory.

Challenge… taking over Oz. Kareem has many ambitions for himself. He sees himself as a leader who is capable of doing the unthinkable: starting a riot and taking control of the prison.

Personality… strong-willed and controlling. Kareem uses his role as spiritual guide to manipulate his fellow prisoners. He seems to be amassing a small army of Muslims who are willing to follow his every command.