[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 168 (Wednesday, October 23, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1336]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  IN RECOGNITION OF THE MUSLIM COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION OF ANN ARBOR AND 
                       VACINITY MOSQUE OPEN HOUSE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DEBBIE DINGELL

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 23, 2019

  Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Muslim 
Community Association of Ann Arbor and Vicinity's Mosque Open House.
  The Muslim community is an important component of Michigan's 
identity. Since the community's humble beginnings in the state over 100 
years ago, the Muslim community in Michigan has grown significantly and 
today represents one of the most diverse groups in the nation. In 1972, 
the Muslim Community Association of Ann Arbor and Vicinity (MCA) was 
founded by a dedicated group of Muslims to better serve the needs of 
Michigan's Muslim community. The purpose of this association was to 
practice, propagate, and preserve Islam and Islamic heritage. Today, 
the association tirelessly works to serve the religious needs of 
Muslims, but also strives to meet the social, cultural, and educational 
needs of the community, as well. In addition, the association provides 
opportunities for people to learn more about the teachings of the Holy 
Qur'an and Sunnah through classes and prayer and aspires to enhance 
friendly relations between Muslims and non-Muslims throughout the 
state.
  MCA's Mosque Open House exemplifies the association's continued 
commitment to unifying our community. By opening the mosque's doors and 
encouraging community members to visit, countless people will be 
introduced to--or gain a better understanding of--Islam. Moreover, the 
open house presents a new opportunity for visitors to meet and speak 
with more of their Muslim neighbors. Thanks to the open house, MCA will 
advance its mission to facilitate greater unification for all members 
of our community, and importantly will create a welcoming space for 
both Muslims and non-Muslims of Ann Arbor to come together to learn 
more about one another.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Muslim 
Community Association of Ann Arbor and Vicinity and thank them for 
hosting their Mosque Open House. We are grateful for the association's 
dedicated efforts to serve the Muslims of Ann Arbor and promote 
friendly relations communitywide.

                          ____________________