MANA’s collaboration with AHAD for The Black Muslim Family Retreat proved to be a remarkable blessing. Held from October 10-13 at Camp Cullen in Trinity, Texas, the retreat was a resounding success, uniting Black Muslim families and individuals from across the United States, along with a family who traveled all the way from the UK to attend. Centered around the theme “Black Love is Black Liberation,” the event provided a meaningful opportunity for participants to connect, recharge, and strengthen their spirits in a supportive and inspiring atmosphere.
Nestled beneath the tall pine forests of Texas, at a place where still waters meet open skies, Camp Cullen became our sanctuary—a space where Black Muslims came together to reconnect with Allah, with one another, and with the legacy of love that lives deep in our bones.
The retreat featured engaging educational sessions, heartfelt discussions, and uplifting activities that fostered a sense of community and unity. Attendees had the chance to learn about black love, black liberation, and the importance of self-love, family, and environmental stewardship. We were able to engage with presenters, who each shared their unique passions, perspectives, and experiences.
Spiritual nourishment was the essence of the retreat. With predawn tahajjud prayers followed by fajr outdoors, serene morning dhikr, rejuvenating hikes in the crisp dawn air, and the daily prayers in congregation, it created a harmonious blend of spiritual nourishment and worship.
Another feature of the retreat was the opportunity to see the children thrive and experience joy in a safe and supportive environment. Watching them play, laugh, and learn together was a true delight and a testament to the power of community and connection. Whether they were hiking, playing games, being creative, or simply enjoying each other’s company, the children brought a sense of innocence, energy, and enthusiasm to the retreat that was infectious and inspiring.
As night fell Sunday evening, something radiant unfolded: a Soulful Mawlid, a sacred celebration of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) through African American cultural traditions. Voices lifted and harmonized, drums and hearts beat as one, bodies swayed gracefully, and the spirit of devotion filled the space, with children leading some parts—joyfully and enthusiastically. MashaAllah, alhamdulillah!
The Black Muslim Family Retreat offered a variety of enjoyable and interactive activities, such as fishing, hiking, zip-lining, and pellet gun shooting at the camp’s shooting range. These activities provided an opportunity for attendees to bond, try new things, and have fun together. Additionally, there were creative activities suitable for all ages, including claymaking and art for children, as well as a memorable “spoken mic” evening session around the campfire where attendees volunteered to share their poetry, recite the Qur’an, sing nasheeds, toast smores, and more in a supportive family environment. Imam Mendes, Imam Mujahid, and other spiritual leaders delivered engaging pre-fajr talks, including one that provided an insightful astronomy lesson that focused on the starlit sky, phases of the moon, lunar calendar significance, and the symbolism of stars for Muslims.
The sense of community and togetherness played a pivotal role in the retreat’s success and lasting impact. Participants shared meals in the communal dining area, engaging in meaningful discussions and socializing at every opportunity. The bonds and camaraderie cultivated during the retreat were truly remarkable, with many attendees expressing heartfelt gratitude to the organizers. Many AHAD members were instrumental in ensuring its success, both before and during the retreat, through their warm and sincere hospitality and gracious adab, including Sister Aasiyah, Sister Terri, Sister Samira, Brother Zachery, and others.
As the retreat concluded Monday morning, it felt like waking from a beautiful dream—but it wasn’t a dream. It was a vision made real. We gathered one last time in a closing circle. Hands clasped, hearts softened, du‘as rose like incense. Elders offered blessings. Children giggled in the background. And the flame of Black Love burned quietly in all of us—ready to be carried home. We departed with a deep sense of inspiration, renewed energy, and emotional upliftment.
With its focus on love, liberation, and connection, the Black Muslim Family Retreat was a truly unique and special experience! Over the course of the event, through engaging in meaningful workshops, group discussions, engaging activities, and reflective homework, the importance of community, authentic connection, spiritual growth, and healing was emphasized. The shared experiences fostered a sense of belonging and personal transformation. Many expressed that they are already looking forward to attending next year’s retreat.
The next Black Muslim Family Retreat will take place at Dar Islam, a Muslim-owned retreat center in New Mexico, inshaAllah. Next year promises to be another exciting retreat in a place that is known for creating space for communities to gather, reflect, pray, and learn in the sweeping, beautiful desert landscape of Abiquiu, New Mexico.
Read other articles about the retreat here and here.
Retreat Photo Collection (Sincere gratitude to several retreat attendees for sharing their photos!)
Akanke is a native of Atlanta who now resides in Dayton, Ohio. She reverted to Islam in 1994 and is passionate about Islam and Islamic spirituality. Akanke is a graduate of Georgia State University, where she earned a degree in Communication, with a focus on film, TV, and cultural anthropology. Her career is diverse, and her interests span various creative forms of expression. From producing TV and radio shows to creating documentaries, writing, graphic design, and life coaching, she strives to make a lasting and authentic impact wherever she goes. Akanke has been a dedicated supporter of MANA since 2007, currently serving as the organization’s Board Vice President. In this role, she plays a key part in working with the Board President and Secretary to shape the organization’s trajectory. Additionally, she serves as MANA’s part-time Communications Director.
