Recognizing Masjid Muhammmad

Floor Speech

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Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Masjid Muhammad, the Nation's Mosque, as they celebrate their 85th year of establishment.

Representing one of the oldest established Muslim communities in the country and the first mosque built in the District of Columbia, Masjid Muhammad has long been a beacon for community service, religious freedom, and human rights.

With their motto of ``Our Community, Our Responsibility,'' Masjid Muhammad has been a central force in their service to the people of DC. They frequently distribute hundreds of pounds of food each month to those in need. They work to build affordable housing and develop programs to address violence, substance abuse, recidivism and countless other social justice issues. They also sponsor several programs including senior citizen support, after school youth activities, vocational training, job placement and more.

Masjid Muhammad has been a pioneer in breaking down barriers for the Muslim community across this country. They established the nation's first Muslim American Veterans Association (MAVA) over 25 years ago with several chapters growing around the nation. They produced the first Islamic Chaplains in the U.S. Military and Department of Justice, the first Muslim Judge for the State of Maryland, the first Muslim Woman to work on a White House Staff, and the first Muslim Boys and Girls Scouts programs in DC.

In addition to their work domestically, Masjid Muhammad has facilitated and participated in numerous conferences and forums on human rights, interfaith peacebuilding, and international religious freedom in over a dozen countries--cementing them as an international voice for peace and justice for all.

Please join me in recognition of Masjid Muhammad's 85 years of service and their contributions to this city, this country, and the world.

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