Concept sketch
of Ummah Center entry.
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What is the Ummah Center?The Ummah
Project is thrilled to lead the development of the Ummah
Health and Wellness Center. We hope to build a
culturally-appropriate recreation center in the Twin Cities
that embodies the ideals of the Ummah Project by providing
educational, legal, health, and recreational services,
especially for immigrant and underprivileged populations.
The Ummah Center will be open to all like-minded people and
organizations.
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Why another health and wellness center? |
Even though
there are many exercise facilities (Lifetime Fitness, YWCA,
etc.), Muslim women in the US find it challenging to engage
in the same physical activities as the average American. The
physical, social, and psychological benefits derived from
sport can’t be denied. Since sport is also a
compulsory part of the curriculum in all schools, it is
important to address the cultural and religious conflicts
that the Somali community faces.
When participating in sports, clothing must be Islamic acceptable, which would exclude shorts, T-shirts, leotards, pants, swimming costumes, etc. Mixing sexes is forbidden in normal situations, especially in a sporting arena or exercise facility. Islamic teaching also restricts certain activities to maintain modesty. |
What will the Ummah Center offer? |
The Ummah Project envisions the Ummah Center as a Muslim-friendly "Y". This would be a place for youth and family programs for health, education, recreation, and empowerment. The Ummah Center would address many of the current youth and family issues within the Muslim community as well as provide new jobs for a self-sustaining business. The Ummah Center would also generate revenue through schools and organizations that would rent the facility for the use of Muslim students. The Ummah Project met with many leaders of the Muslim community in the Twin Cities, and they are very supportive of this project and are willing to support us with money, time, and ideas as well as encouragement. The Ummah Center will help to reduce gang and youth violence.
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