Islam is one of the fastest-growing religions in the United States, with an estimated 3.5 million Muslims living across the country. St. Paul, the capital city of Minnesota, has a thriving Muslim community with a diverse mix of Arabs, Pakistanis, and other Islamic immigrants.
The Arab community is the largest Muslim group in St. Paul, with a significant number of Lebanese, Syrians, and Palestinians. The Pakistani community also has a strong presence in St. Paul, with a majority of them residing in the East Side neighborhood. Other Muslim immigrants include Somalis, Ethiopians, and Bosnians.
The Muslim community in St. Paul is diverse and has various ethnicities, cultures, and backgrounds. Despite their differences, they share a common faith and come together to create a vibrant and inclusive community.
Mosques and Islamic Centers:
The Muslim community in St. Paul has access to several mosques and Islamic centers. The Islamic Center of Minnesota (ICM) is one of the oldest and most prominent mosques in the state. It is located in Fridley, a northern suburb of the Twin Cities, and serves as a hub for the Muslim community in the region. The ICM offers a range of services, including Friday prayers, Islamic education for children and adults, and community events.
The Islamic Association of North America (IANA) is another significant Islamic center in St. Paul. It is located in the Como neighborhood and provides religious and cultural services to the local Muslim community. The IANA also operates a full-time Islamic school, which serves students from pre-kindergarten to eighth grade.
Masjid Al Ansar is a smaller mosque located in the North End neighborhood of St. Paul. It serves as a community center for Muslims in the area and offers a range of services, including Friday prayers, Islamic education, and social events.
Muslim Community Organizations:
The Muslim community in St. Paul is well-organized and has several community organizations that cater to their needs. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) Minnesota is a civil rights organization that aims to promote justice and protect civil liberties for Muslims in the state. The organization provides legal services, advocacy, and education to the Muslim community.
The Islamic Resource Group (IRG) is another organization that provides educational services to the Muslim community. The IRG aims to dispel myths and stereotypes about Islam and Muslims through its outreach programs. The organization conducts cultural competency training for schools, hospitals, and other institutions to increase understanding and promote inclusion.
The Muslim American Society (MAS) is a national organization with a chapter in Minnesota. The MAS provides religious and social services to the Muslim community and promotes civic engagement and community development.
Conclusion:
The Muslim community in St. Paul is a vibrant and diverse community with a rich history and culture. The community has access to several mosques and Islamic centers that provide religious and cultural services. Additionally, there are several community organizations that cater to the needs of the Muslim community and promote civic engagement and community development. Despite facing challenges and discrimination, the Muslim community in St. Paul has a strong sense of identity and belonging and continues to thrive and contribute to the fabric of the city.
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