The Black Mosque…….it could happen 

Mahmoud Andrade Ibrahim

In the streets of New York City, surrounded by towering skyscrapers and the constant flow of people, a vibrant and diverse community thrived, the center of which stands the BLACK MOSQUE. Among them was Brother Ahmed, a dedicated member of a robust community of believers. Within this community, he found solace and strength in their shared faith and culture.

One particular aspect of this community that stood out was their commitment to empowerment. Black Americans, especially, found a safe haven in THE BLACK MOSQUE. It was a place where Black American Muslims could fully participate in defining Islamic practice, free from the constraints of cultural divisions and judgment.

Led by an inspiring imam, they embraced their African past, displaying a unique blend of Islamic traditions and African-American heritage. Within the walls of THE BLACK MOSQUE, congregants felt a deep connection to their faith, finding strength in unity and solidarity.

However, as time went on, the impact of this empowering movement began to extend far beyond the walls of their beloved mosque. Brother Ahmed and his fellow devotees realized that they possessed a tremendous opportunity to inspire change, not just within their own community, but across the nation.

They witnessed the scarcity of educational resources in predominantly Black neighborhoods, which deprived numerous young minds of a proper education. Motivated by their strong faith and a passionate determination to uplift and empower their community, they jointly decided to combine their resources and establish schools that prioritize sustainable academic and religious principles.

The concept of THE BLACK MOSQUE schools quickly gained traction. People from all walks of life, regardless of their religious beliefs, recognized the importance of providing quality education to underserved communities.

Heartened by the overwhelming support, the initiative transformed into a national organization known as RISE (Rooted in Islam, Serving Everyone). RISE aimed to dismantle the systemic barriers that prevented marginalized communities from accessing quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

The dedicated volunteers of RISE worked tirelessly, seeking partnerships with local authorities, businesses, and philanthropists. Their efforts paved the way for the establishment of numerous educational institutions in Black neighborhoods, staffed by passionate teachers and equipped with state-of-the-art resources.

As these schools flourished, transforming the lives of countless children, RISE expanded its reach. The organization established healthcare clinics in areas lacking vital medical services, providing much-needed care to those previously overlooked by mainstream healthcare systems.

Simultaneously, RISE initiated economic development programs, offering training and resources to aspiring entrepreneurs in marginalized communities. By encouraging and supporting the establishment of small businesses, they aimed to create a sustainable economy within these neighborhoods.

News of RISE's successful initiatives traveled far and wide, inspiring other communities across the country to follow suit. As the organization's impact grew, support poured in from influential figures and celebrities, catapulting RISE into the national spotlight.

However, as RISE gained prominence, it also attracted its fair share of detractors. Those resistant to change feared the power this collective movement held, challenging the status quo that perpetuated discrimination and inequality. Yet, undeterred, Brother Ahmed and his cohorts remained committed to their cause, fueled by the belief that equality and justice were worth fighting for.

As the years passed, RISE became an institution, contributing to the transformation of countless lives, and birthing a generation of scholars, doctors, entrepreneurs, and leaders. The mosques affiliated with RISE became beacons of hope, not only for Black American Muslims but for all those seeking a community where their voice mattered and their potential was nurtured.

Through their tireless efforts and unwavering dedication to justice, RISE redefined what it meant to be a Muslim in America. They showcased the resilience and strength of a community that refused to be silenced or marginalized.

In the heart of New York City, Brother Ahmed, the imam, and their fellow believers continued to hold on to their shared faith and culture amidst the chaos of the ever-evolving city. Together, they built not only a place of worship but a movement that transformed a nation, reminding everyone that unity and collaboration were the keys to a brighter and more equitable future.