The Muslim American Society (MAS) recently celebrated its 30th anniversary with a grand gala event that brought together leaders, activists, and members of the Muslim community from across the United States. The event was held in Washington, DC on March 4th, 2023, and featured a range of speakers who shared their experiences and insights on the progress and challenges facing the Muslim American community.
The event was opened by the emcee, Maysa Munir, who welcomed the guests and highlighted the achievements of MAS over the past three decades. Founded in 1993, MAS is a national nonprofit organization that aims to promote the values of Islam, engage Muslims in civic life, and build bridges of understanding between Muslims and non-Muslims.
One of the keynote speakers was Yasir Qadhi, a prominent Muslim scholar, author, and speaker who has been a leading voice on issues related to Islamic theology, history, and spirituality. Qadhi spoke about the importance of Muslim Americans having a strong and rooted understanding of their faith and history in order to be effective leaders and agents of change in their communities. He also highlighted the role of MAS in providing resources and opportunities for Muslims to deepen their knowledge and understanding of their faith.
Another keynote speaker was Dalia Mogahed, a renowned Muslim American researcher and activist who has been involved in a range of social justice issues, including Islamophobia, civil rights, and gender equality. Mogahed spoke about the importance of Muslim Americans being active and engaged members of their communities and the role of MAS in empowering them to do so. She also highlighted the need for Muslims to be vocal in their support for other marginalized communities and to work towards building coalitions for justice and equality.
Richard McKinney, BSW, a clinical social worker and community leader, also spoke at the event, sharing his experiences working with Muslim Americans and advocating for their rights and well-being. McKinney highlighted the challenges facing Muslim Americans in the current political climate and the importance of supporting and uplifting each other as a community.
Dr. Ayman Hammous, a prominent Muslim American leader and activist who has been involved in a range of social justice issues, also spoke at the event. Dr. Hammous spoke about the importance of Muslim Americans being active and engaged in the political process and using their voices and platforms to advocate for change and progress. He also highlighted the role of MAS in providing resources and opportunities for Muslim Americans to participate in the political process and make their voices heard.
The event also featured a performance by Raef, a Muslim American singer-songwriter who has been praised for his unique blend of pop and Islamic music. Raef entertained the guests with his soulful and inspiring music, showcasing the vibrancy and creativity of Muslim American culture.
Over the past 30 years, MAS has accomplished a great deal in promoting the values of Islam and empowering Muslim Americans to be active and engaged members of society. Some of the organization’s key achievements include the establishment of the MAS Youth program, which has provided leadership training and community service opportunities to thousands of young Muslims across the country. MAS has also been active in promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding, working with other faith communities to build bridges of understanding and cooperation.
In addition to its youth programs, MAS has been active in promoting civic engagement among Muslim Americans, encouraging them to participate in the political process and make their voices heard on issues that matter to them. The organization has also been at the forefront of the fight for Muslim rights and social justice, advocating for the rights of Muslims in the workplace, schools, and public sphere.
Looking to the future, MAS is committed to continuing its work of promoting the values of Islam and empowering Muslim Americans to be active and engaged members of society. The organization will continue to focus on youth development, interfaith dialogue and civic engagement, while also addressing pressing issues facing the Muslim community, such as Islamophobia, discrimination, and social inequality.
In addition to its ongoing programs and initiatives, MAS is also looking to expand its reach and impact in the coming years. The organization is working on developing new partnerships and collaborations with other organizations and community groups, in order to build a stronger, more united Muslim American community.
The 30th anniversary gala was a testament to the strength and resilience of the Muslim American community and the vital role that organizations like MAS play in supporting and empowering them. Through its work and commitment to promoting the values of Islam and empowering Muslim Americans, MAS has made a significant impact on the lives of thousands of people over the past three decades, and it will continue to do so in the years to come.
The Muslim American Society’s 30th anniversary gala was a celebration of the organization’s achievements and the strength and resilience of the Muslim American community. The event brought together leaders, activists, and members of the community to reflect on the progress and challenges facing Muslim Americans, and to renew their commitment to promoting justice, equality, and social change. The keynote speakers, Yasir Qadhi, Dalia Mogahed, Richard MAC McKinney, BSW, and Dr. Ayman Hammous, provided inspiring insights and perspectives on the importance of Muslim American leadership, engagement, and advocacy. The event also showcased the vibrancy and creativity of Muslim American culture through the performance of Raef, the Muslim American singer-songwriter. Overall, the event was a powerful testament to the impact and importance of MAS in the Muslim American community, and the organization’s commitment to promoting the values of Islam, empowering Muslims, and building bridges of understanding and cooperation with other communities.
