The Muslim Alliance in North America (MANA) is focused on its mission to grow and maintain a network of individuals and organizations dedicated to strengthening the African American Muslim community. Through a comprehensive and systematic approach, MANA has developed a five-step methodology that guides its efforts in addressing the community’s top challenges. Please read more about MANA’s work HERE. Currently, MANA is in step three of its methodology and is actively engaging with the community to implement solutions addressing youth, young adults, and healthy marriages.
During a recent meeting focused on young adult Muslims, participants identified key challenges such as limited leadership opportunities, feelings of disconnection from the Muslim community, and a lack of purpose and direction. The cohort engaged in fruitful discussions and brainstormed ideas to better engage young adults. These ideas included building networks, fostering collaborations with organizations, leveraging existing initiatives, and highlighting economic empowerment opportunities.
Furthermore, the meeting emphasized the importance of developing a robust curriculum for young adults to equip them with essential life skills. There was a strong emphasis on community structures, mentorship programs, and the establishment of specialized groups led by young experts in various fields to facilitate peer relationship-building and support.
Among the diverse ideas generated, one concrete initiative stood out: creating a comprehensive list of organizations and individuals supporting young adults. This initiative, which received significant support from the group, aims to be a dynamic living document that will be refined with community feedback. The purpose of this initiative is to expand the available resources for young adult engagement within the African American Muslim community, fostering cooperation, knowledge sharing, and disseminating best practices among different organizations.
Central to the success of these endeavors is the spirit of collaboration and networking with like-minded organizations. By fostering partnerships and creating a network of groups that can work together effectively, the aim is to address common needs and empower African-American young adult Muslims.
In conclusion, the recent gathering showcased the dedication and commitment of individuals and organizations within the African American community to engage and empower young adults. By focusing on collaborative efforts, the exchange of innovative ideas, and the selection of impactful initiatives such as the creation of a resource list, the collective vision is to create a more supportive and enriching environment for young adults within the community. If you or anyone you know has an organization focused on working with young adult Black Muslims, please look for a form to submit the information in MANA’s next newsletter.
Joshua Salaam has strong roots in the American Muslim community. He started attending national Muslim youth camps at the age of 12 and continued as a participant, counselor and speaker for over 30 years. Joshua entered the U.S. Air Force in 1995 and served as a Police officer for four years. He was a key contributor in establishing Friday prayer services on base for Muslim military members and went on to serve as an Imam in Goldsboro, NC for several years. After the military, Joshua immersed himself in community activism. He managed the Civil Rights department for the Council on American-Islamic Relations from 2000-2004 and helped oversee a Baltimore Muslim community and neighborhood development project from 2004-2007. Before starting at Duke in July 2018, Joshua worked with youth and families for 11 years at one of the largest Muslim communities in America. His diverse background gives him a unique perspective on many issues and helps him connect with students. He holds a Master’s Degree in Religious Studies and a Doctorate of Ministry from Hartford Seminary. He is the current President of MANA’s Board of Directors.
