It may come as a surprise to many that the history of Islam and Muslims on continental North America goes back nearly 500 years.
In this tour, we will trace that history, dating it back to the first Muslims to arrive here, both free and enslaved. Along the way, we visit the site that was home to “Anthony the Turk,” the first free Muslim and the first Muslim to own property in the US; the former “Little Syria” colony; the 9/11 Memorial; and more.
The tour will engage with both perceptions and reality, as we learn about African freedom fighters in the 18th century, Ottoman diplomats in the 19th century, Arab merchants and Asian dock workers in the 20th century, and new waves of Muslim immigrants in the 21st century.
We will end our tour with a conversation on the challenges and triumphs of Muslim New Yorkers in the present day.
Accessibility
The walk will be entirely street-level!
Location Information
RSVP is required and capacity is limited. Meeting location, ending location, and directions will be provided via email before walk date.
