Rutgers School of Law-Newark student Saad Admani at a weekly Saturday protest in January 2021
Officially known as “The Islamic Society of Essex County,” this space was donated to the Muslims of Newark decades ago in 1982. The mosque was sold last year without community knowledge. Faith-based places are integral to the vibrant city of Newark. People from different social-economic levels, racial backgrounds, and ages come together to worship and serve the community. This is all the reason why what’s happening with the mosque on Branford Place, downtown Newark, is disheartening to many community members.
Muslims make up 3% of religious affiliations in New Jersey, which is likely a more conservative number, ranking #1 in the nation in the percentage of its population. There is a longstanding history of faith-based movements and civil rights being intertwined with Muslims in Newark. The Moorish Science Temple of America was first established in Newark in 1913 by Noble Drew Ali. It