The Islamic Center of Union County (ICUC) located on Morris Avenue in Union, invited the community to an open house held on May 1, 2016. The theme of the event was “A bridge to meet and greet your Muslim neighbors”. The event was a resounding success with many public officials in attendance as well as Union Township service members who came out to support co-workers being honored for their service.
Community service members who were honored included Ashley Lupo, Union EMS; Vincent Amato, Union Fire Department; Anthony Cavello, Union Police Department; and Nancy Zuena, Union Board of Education.
After an opening payer recited from the Quran, Imam Said El Qasabi stated “This center is a part of Union. We are a part of the same fabric. Our doors are open and all are welcome.”
Mayor Manuel Figueiredo stated in part “This is a wonderful event. We are here to learn a little bit about Islam…. We have similarties.” The ICUC was started by students attending Rutgers and NJIT in Newark in 1986 and moved to its current location at 2372 Morris Avenue, Union about five years ago. All of the center’s board members are volunteers.
The ICUC offers free after school tutoring for Muslim and non-Muslim children, homework help and SAT training. A part of their mission is to promote friendly relations between Muslims and non-Muslims in the community. Guests were treated to a buffet after the ceremony and mingled with the center’s congregation. Tables were set up with booklets and board members were on hand to answer questions about Islam and the center. ICUC President Dr. Wail Rasheed thanked those who attended. “This special day allows us the opportunity to come together as a collective whole and reminds us that we are a part of a great community and that enables us to build bridges between one another.
“Islam teaches me to respect all people and stand up for justice for all. I am here, and I have been here for generations – wanting the same things you do – the chance to pursue life, liberty and happiness. I am an American. I am a Muslim. This is my faith. This is my voice. We have a civic obligation to protect our city, town, state and country at large.” This ICUC welcomes your questions about Islam or Muslims. You can also take a tour of the local Mosque by appointment. To learn more visit icuc@icucnj.com or email icuc@icucnj.com.
(above) Community service members who were honored included Vincent Amato, Union Fire Department; Ashley Lupo, Union EMS; Anthony Cavello, Union Police Department; and Nancy Zuena, Union Board of Education.
(above) ICUC President Dr. Wail Rasheed and Iman Said El Qasabi were on hand to answer questions from some of the many public officials who were in attendance during the open house held at the Islamic Center of Union County located on Morris Ave. in Union.
Photos by Renna Media.
