Was it anti-Islamic bigotry that fueled attempts to close Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Center in 1993? Let’s step back in time and explore the story of this influential mosque.
Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Center stands as a beacon of faith. It serves a diverse Muslim community in Northern Virginia. The center’s story began in 1983. A group of university students founded it. Most were of Arab origin. They sought an alternative to the Islamic Center of Washington. Dar Al-Hijrah quickly became one of the largest mosques in the area.
Initially, the mosque operated from a house. This house still stands on the center’s grounds. It now serves as a food bank. In those early days, about 30 people attended Friday prayers. A small group of families purchased the grounds on June 19, 1983. They received help from the North American Islamic Trust.
The current building cost $5 million. It was completed in 1991. The Saudi Embassy’s Islamic Affairs Department provided financial assistance. The building sits on a 3.4 acre plot. Despite its humble beginnings, Dar Al-Hijrah grew to become a powerhouse mosque by 2000.
However, the journey wasn’t without obstacles. In 1993, some residents tried to shut it down. They claimed it violated Fairfax County zoning ordinances. But worshippers saw this as anti-Islamic bigotry.
Dar Al-Hijrah offers many activities. Prayers are held five times daily. Friday prayer attendance exceeds 3,000 people. In 2004, about 60% of members were Arab. A growing number came from Somalia, Morocco, Pakistan, Ethiopia and Bangladesh.
The center also hosts lectures and conferences. It has youth recreation and outdoor activities. Women’s classes and health fairs are also organized. Financial assistance is provided too. The Washington Islamic Academy operates as its school. Dar Al-Hijrah co-sponsors a civic picnic. Candidates for local office meet Muslim voters here.
Jamal al Barzinji and Samir Salah were founding members. Al Barzinji was the original trustee. Salah later became the mosque’s president. Mohammed Ali Al-Hanooti served as imam from 1995 to 1999. Leaders wanted an imam to attract young people.
Brooklyn-born Johari Abdul-Malik was Outreach Director. He defended Islam and Muslim rights. Sheikh Mohammed Adam El-Sheikh was imam from 2003 to 2005. Shaker Elsayed has been the resident imam since 2005.
Dar Al-Hijrah’s board has nine members. It includes leaders from various Islamic organizations. The executive committee has seven members. Imams Shaker Elsayed and Johari Abdul-Malik serve on it. In 2004, the mosque had 250 voting member families.
Dar Al-Hijrah actively engages in community outreach. It promotes mutual understanding. The center participates in food banks and community clean-ups. It is involved in interfaith projects. Its social services department helps needy families. During Ramadan, Dar Al-Hijrah provides free meals nightly. Over 800 meals are served each night.
However, controversy has touched Dar Al-Hijrah. Nidal Hasan attended the mosque. So did two of the September 11 hijackers. Anwar al-Awlaki was once an imam there. Ahmed Omar Abu Ali worshiped and taught at the mosque. He was later convicted of providing material support to al-Qaeda.
Despite challenges, Dar Al-Hijrah stands as a testament to faith. It is a community hub. It actively contributes to the Northern Virginia area. Its history reflects both growth and resilience. It shows a commitment to community service. The Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Center remains a vital part of the Washington D.C. metropolitan area.