Like many other immigrant organizations, be they religious or associations, the Haske Rasulullah has come a long way after its formal inauguration on October 25, 1976, in Chicago by a group of visionary young men and women. The vision then was to develop an oasis of hope in a desert of hopelessness for recent immigrants from West Africa, especially Ghana. One of the initial goals was to create an environment for carrying on with some of the rudimentary cultural practices of the “Zongo Experience” here in Chicago. Also, during the organization’s early days, a strong sense of camaraderie was established among its members. A series of communal celebrations were held to concretize the organization’s achievements as a family.
Over the years, however, the organization has transformed to keep pace with the changing community.
The need for a place they can call home to worship, celebrate the birth of a child and marriage, and officiate going home prayers for dearly departed ones led to purchasing a community center at 4819 S Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL – 60609. According to Alhajie Tijanie, President of the group, the center has now been fully paid.
The Society has furthered its work by assisting members financially and emotionally. It has sponsored trips home for needy members and presented gifts to visiting scholars and politicians from Ghana.
About four years ago, the organization founded a Madrasat, a school for Islamic Studies for the youth in the community. Classes are held once a week under the tutelage of Ustaz Mohammed Al-Thani, a graduate of the University of Kuwait. The institution’s principal is Alhaji Baba Cisse, who is responsible for developing the school’s curriculum.
May Allah continue to unconditionally bless members, Grant Jannatul Firdaus to all past leaders and members of Haske.
Reported by
Musah Trawill
Public Relations Officer (P.R.O)
Haske Muslim Community of Chicago
