The Evergreen Islamic Center (EIC) in San Jose is a significant spiritual home for approximately 500 families and holds the distinction of being the first mosque built from the ground up in the San Francisco South Bay Area. It serves not only the local Muslim community but also attracts practicing Muslims from as far as San Francisco, Oakland, and Santa Cruz.

Beyond religious services, EIC functions as a dynamic community center, offering diverse programs such as food distribution, health clinics, and educational initiatives. It actively promotes inclusivity and understanding within the broader community.

I had the privilege of speaking with many attendees, community members, and board members who gathered from across the Bay Area for the Eid celebrations. Families traveled from all over, some over 50 miles, to join our community for the lively “bazaar,” delicious food trucks, and exciting kids’ entertainment, including a jumpy house and magic show.