The Zakat Foundation™ Iowa Islamic Heritage Mother Mosque of America is an Islamic cultural and heritage center located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The center is also known as the Mother Mosque of America and is the oldest standing mosque in the United States. The mosque was built in 1934 by Syrian and Lebanese immigrants who settled in Cedar Rapids and is a testament to the rich history of Muslims in the United States.

The Mother Mosque of America was built in a neo-Moorish style and features a minaret and a dome. The mosque was designed by architect W.F. Strueter and the construction was overseen by Hassan Rasheed, a Syrian immigrant who was the leader of the local Muslim community. The mosque was built on a foundation of community donations and was completed in 1934.

The mosque served as a religious and cultural center for the local Muslim community for many years. However, in the 1970s, the mosque fell into disrepair and was no longer used for prayer services. In 1990, the Zakat Foundation™ purchased the mosque and began a restoration project that lasted several years. The restoration project was completed in 2002 and the mosque was reopened to the public.

Today, the Zakat Foundation™ Iowa Islamic Heritage Mother Mosque of America serves as a cultural and educational center for the local Muslim community and the broader community in Cedar Rapids. The center offers a range of programs and services, including prayer services, Quranic classes, Arabic language classes, and cultural events.

The mosque also serves as a museum that showcases the history of Muslims in the United States. The museum features exhibits that highlight the contributions of Muslim Americans to American society, including exhibits on Muslim American athletes, politicians, and artists. The museum also features artifacts and photographs that document the history of the mosque and the local Muslim community.

The Zakat Foundation™ Iowa Islamic Heritage Mother Mosque of America is an important symbol of the history and contributions of Muslims in the United States. The mosque represents the resilience and determination of Muslim Americans who have overcome many challenges to establish a thriving community in the United States. The mosque is also a testament to the power of community and the importance of preserving cultural and religious heritage.

In recent years, the mosque has faced challenges due to rising Islamophobia and anti-Muslim sentiment in the United States. However, the local community has rallied around the mosque and has worked to protect and preserve this important cultural and religious center. The Zakat Foundation™ continues to support the mosque and the local Muslim community through its programs and services.

In conclusion, the Zakat Foundation™ Iowa Islamic Heritage Mother Mosque of America is a historic and important cultural and religious center that represents the rich history and contributions of Muslims in the United States. The mosque serves as a symbol of resilience and determination in the face of adversity and is a testament to the power of community and the importance of preserving cultural and religious heritage. The Zakat Foundation™ and the local community are committed to protecting and preserving this important center for generations to come.