ILIA Endowment - Our Story

Islam in America:

From Challenges to Empowerment

Fund Our Endowment

Muslim Native Americans

The earliest Muslims, believed to be Native Americans followed by Moors expelled from Spain, arrived in the Caribbean and possibly the Gulf of Mexico.

Enslaved African Muslims

African slaves, many of whom were Muslims, were brought to the USA, Despite challenges, they maintained their faith in secret

Middle Eastern, White and Latino Muslims

Istafan, a Muslim guide, accompanied Spanish explorers to the New World. the earliest White American Muslims were documented in the 1800s.

Rediscovery of Muslim Roots

Establishment of Muslim communities and mosques.

Global Immigration

Immigration laws changed, leading to a new wave of Muslim immigrants from almost every corner of the world, bringing new new waves from the North Africa, Asia and other Muslim lands.

Present Day

The Muslim population in the USA is estimated to be between 12 million and 17 million. Muslims have started to become more involved on campuses, policy making circles, making meaningful impact thanks to ILIA and organizations that share our mission.

There is still a lot more work that needs to be done. It requires research, innovation, and new programs based on the Quran and Sunnah within the boundaries of Shariah.

The ILIA Solution & Vision

The Problem

Muslims in America have faced numerous challenges, including discrimination, negative stereotypes, and a lack of understanding of their faith. Despite being a growing presence in the country, many Americans know little about Islam or Muslims, leading to polarized views. Muslims have reported experiencing discrimination in various forms, from suspicious behavior to physical threats. This discrimination can have severe mental and physical effects, as well as impact their workplace experiences. The largest challenge experienced by Muslim Americans from the days of Native Muslim Americans until today is a weak identity, a mission ILIA has undertaken since 1430 AH ~ 2009 to stabilize, develop, grow and empower.

Malcolm X

Yarrow Mamout

ILIA was founded with a mission to empower communities through innovative solutions and impactful programs. Our vision is to create a world where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute positively to society. As we continue to grow, we aim to expand our reach, develop new initiatives, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. By expanding, we can attract new partners, diversify our resources, and enhance our ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. Together, we can build a brighter future for all.

ILIA draws inspiration from historical figures like Malcolm X and Yarrow Mamout. Malcolm X, a prominent civil rights leader, advocated for the rights and dignity of African Americans and Muslims, leaving a lasting legacy of empowerment and resilience. Yarrow Mamout, a Muslim who was enslaved in America, exemplified courage and faith, overcoming immense hardships to establish himself as a respected member of society. Their stories remind us of the enduring strength and contributions of Muslims throughout American history. ILIA continues this legacy by working to empower and uplift communities, fostering a society that respects and values diversity.