At USCMO, we believe that building an inclusive community that celebrates diversity requires that we engage in a journey to continuously better understand each other. 
This understanding encompasses not only our diverse cultures but also the shared challenges we encounter within society.
With national origins in more than 77 countries, the U.S. Muslim population is the most diverse religious community in America. This diversity is prime for opportunity but can present challenges to unity as well. We are uniquely aware that opportunities for unity do not come easily. It is essential that we put in the necessary effort to uphold our Islamic tradition of learning and fostering mutual understanding.
O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.
— Quran 49:13
Given the diverse nature of our community, U.S. Muslims encounter a multitude of complex challenges. African-Americans face biased treatment and the enduring effects of systemic racism, which have adversely impacted their livelihoods, opportunities, and overall progress. Arab-Americans contend with negative stereotypes that have resulted in unwarranted suspicions and even unjust prosecutions. Many Muslim women are subjected to regular insults due to social biases against their religious head-coverings. Asian-Americans have recently experienced an upsurge in hate incidents stemming from the pandemic. Similarly, Latino, African-immigrant, and other minority communities grapple with comparable struggles rooted in bias.
We firmly believe that as the premier umbrella organization representing Muslim entities, we are uniquely positioned to drive impactful change in the realms of diversity, equity, and inclusion. In this spirit, USCMO has spearheaded a pioneering endeavor known as the Twin-Mosques initiative, undertaken in partnership with Islamic Relief USA. This initiative aims to strengthen the bonds and foster deeper relationships between the African American Muslim community and the immigrant Muslim community. At its core, this initiative is designed to bridge cultural gaps, enhance appreciation for societal challenges, promote acceptance and celebration of differences, foster trust, encourage fruitful cooperation, and drive community growth and empowerment.
Central to the Twin-Mosques initiative is its celebration of racial and cultural diversity within the Muslim American community. By nurturing connections among Muslims of different backgrounds, particularly between African American Muslims and their counterparts, we aim to establish a unified front against racism, both within and outside our community.
This initiative operates on a robust system, complete with a structured framework and proven motivational strategies to ensure sustained participation. While encompassing various activities aimed at promoting diversity, inclusion, and equity, the flagship component of the initiative is the Seal of Equity program.
The Seal of Equity program is a transformative journey for participating mosques, encompassing a process of training and implementation across four distinct levels:
- The Bronze Seal of Equity (Education and Awareness)
- The Silver Seal of Equity (Policy and Management)
- The Gold Seal of Equity (Inclusive Environment)
- The Platinum Seal of Equity (Diversity Engagement)
Achieving each level of the Seal of Equity signifies a mosque’s and community center’s unwavering commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity. As mosques progress through the program, upgrading their seal levels, they are recognized for their dedication, incentivizing sustained participation for lasting positive change.
THE SEAL OF EQUITY PROGRAM
