Who we are
The Islamic Center of Southern California takes pride in its heritage of diversity, open-mindedness, civic engagement and community building. Get to know what makes us tick — our mission, our approach to Islam and and our definition of the American Muslim identity, all of which shape the character of our community.
Mission Statement
The Islamic Center of Southern California is an independent organization whose primary goal is the emergence of an American Muslim identity. Its purpose is to practice and share the values of Islam by providing religious, educational and recreational facilities for members of the public.
Our Approach to Islam
The sources of Islam are the Holy Quran and the non-controversially relayed (sahih) tradition of the seal of messengers, Muhammud (peace be upon him). Other traditions, man-made rules, cultural and ethnic behaviors are not infallible, and are not considered as sources of Islam.
Islam is the universal mercy of God. Muslims identify primarily as Muslims and not as a particular ethnic group, race, color, or tribe. No such exclusionary activities are allowed in the Center.
Arabic is taught as the language of the Holy Quran. The language of communication and activities at the Center is the language of the land, i.e. English.
Choosing a school of thought (mazhab) is a matter of personal preference, not a policy of the Center
The affairs of Muslims should be handled through consultation (shura), discipline and organization.
Men and women are equally encouraged to participate in the activities of the Center and equally responsible for their efforts.
The Center does not believe in segregation of the sexes to attain righteousness. Rather, righteousness is attained through modesty, decency, purity of heart, clarity of conscience, and the observance of the dictates of God and His apostle.
While advocating the codes and ethics of Islamic behavior, the Center believes there is no compulsion in religion. The role of the Center is to teach and remind, not to compel or judge.
Islam is a complete way of life. While social and political activism may be a part of this, the Center’s activities are focused upon and geared toward the interests of Islam and Muslims in America. Preoccupation by other countries’ politics leads only to division and chaos among Muslims in America and is contrary to the policies of the Center.
American Muslim Identity
The Muslim community in the United States is comprised of an enriching mosaic of races, ethnicities, cultures, schools of thought, and ways of practicing Islam. Respecting that diversity, we also assert our identity as Americans who subscribe to the following:
We believe the values and principles found in the U.S. Constitution are in alignment with the eternal message of the Holy Quran, promoting mercy (21:107), justice (4:135), peace (8:61), human dignity (17:70), freedom (2:256), and equality for all (49:13).
We view the United States as our home.
We believe in a representative democracy as defined in the U.S. Constitution, which we believe is congruent with the Islamic concept of shura – a collective and consultative form of decision making.
We embrace the pluralism of our country, and are committed to constructively engaging in its religious, civic, economic, social, and overall betterment.
We enjoy those aspects of our nation’s culture that do not conflict with Islamic values, and avoid those which do.
We believe men and women should be equal participants in all activities and efforts.
The Muslim community in the United States is comprised of an enriching mosaic of races, ethnicities, cultures, schools of thought, and ways of practicing Islam.