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Elijah Muhammad has publicly denied that the NOI teaches or advocates the use of violence or disobedience to the "white man's laws" in order to achieve its goals. This disclaimer has been repeated in public by the ministers of the various NOI mosques throughout the country. The same message of denial is carried in "Muhammad Speaks." While this attitude toward violence and disruption is publicly enunciated, a more militant approach is actually pursued. Violent action to prevent police officers from entering NOI meeting halls and to avenge what is considered unprovoked police measures is condoned. In addition, obstruction of police and prison officials, excessive requests for freedom to practice their "religion" in prison, and deliberate violation of certain laws are actions supported by NOI leaders and members. Black Muslim conflict with authority and with the law and order of our civil society has been particularly evident in the areas of police jurisdiction, prison confinement, and FBI investigations.

Police departments in numerous cities have been involved in investigations pertaining to NOI representatives. The most publicized