The Ar-Razzaq Islamic Center, established in the early 1970s, holds the distinction of being North Carolina’s first mosque. Located on West Chapel Hill Street in Durham, this historic center has played a pivotal role in the spiritual and social lives of the local Muslim community.
The center’s foundation was laid during a time when African-American Muslims were seeking spaces to practice their faith and build community. Over the decades, Ar-Razzaq has grown into a vital institution, not only for worship but also for education, cultural exchange, and social services. It has become a cornerstone of the West End neighborhood, contributing to the area’s revitalization by providing essential educational and economic opportunities.
Ar-Razzaq Islamic Center is more than just a place of worship; it is a hub for community engagement and interfaith dialogue. The center welcomes people of all faiths to learn about Islam and participate in various community activities. This openness has fostered a spirit of inclusivity and mutual respect, helping to bridge cultural and religious divides.
One of the center’s most significant contributions is its role in promoting civil and human rights. The mosque has been a platform for advocating social justice and equality, reflecting the broader struggles and aspirations of the African-American Muslim community. This commitment to activism and service is evident in the center’s various programs, which include health initiatives, educational workshops, and support for local businesses.
The name “Ar-Razzaq,” meaning “The Provider,” reflects the center’s mission to serve and uplift the community. Through its efforts, Ar-Razzaq has not only provided a spiritual home for Muslims in Durham but also contributed to the city’s cultural and social fabric.
Beyond Durham, Ar-Razzaq’s influence has extended across North Carolina. As the state’s first mosque, it laid the groundwork for the establishment of other Islamic centers and communities throughout the region. It has served as a model for faith-based civic engagement, inspiring similar efforts in cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Greensboro. The center’s leadership and outreach have helped shape public understanding of Islam in North Carolina, fostering greater religious literacy and interfaith cooperation at a statewide level.
Ar-Razzaq’s historical and ongoing contributions continue to resonate far beyond Durham, making it a landmark not only in the city’s history but in the broader narrative of religious and cultural life in North Carolina.
References:
Ar-Razzaq Islamic Center. “Our History.”
Hassan, Mona, and John West. “Celebrating North Carolina’s First Mosque and Durham’s Muslim Community.” Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, Duke University, November 30, 2022. https://trinity.duke.edu/news/celebrating-north-carolinas-first-mosque-…
Duke University Libraries. The Transformational History of Ar-Razzaq Islamic Center in Durham. Durham, NC: Duke University, 2022. https://library.duke.edu/exhibits/2022/ArRazzaq