Loading ...Debbie Almontaser: The First Muslim Woman in History To Offer Prayer at a Presidential Inaugural
By: Meral Abu-Jaser /Arab America Contributing Writer
How History was Changed
History was made as the first Muslim woman was invited to offer prayer at the presidential inaugural. Every four years the presidential inauguration is held in mid-January and the administration invites people to a prayer encompassing different faiths during this event. Yet, this year the presidential inaugural was slightly different. Debbie Almontaser was among the people who offered the prayer at the presidential inaugural. This has shaped hope and honor among the Arab-Muslim communities, specifically for Yemenis. Let us examine Debbie Almontaser and her journey in politics, as well as her success in making political and religious history.
On Wednesday, January 20, 2020, Debbie Almontaser received an invitation to recite a Muslim prayer at the presidential inaugural prayer service. The next day, the prayer was held virtually, and history was made. Debbie Almontaser became the first Muslim woman in history to offer a prayer at this time held traditional service. During an interview, she said, “this prayer service is coming right after 4 difficult years that had been inflicting pain to Americans.” She went on to explain how she hoped this invitation and involvement will help us as a community heal and regain all that has been lost by the past administration.
Debbie Almontaser Journey
A community activist, Dr. Almontaser is of Yemini descent, an influencer, and an advocator who works across sectors in New York City. She is known for her public speaking, and as a result, has earned multiple awards, some of which include the Brooklyn Borough President Proclamation, the Educator Builder, the Advocacy for Justice and Tolerance in Education, and the Commitment to Values of Equality and Justice Award. She is also the founder of the Khalil Gibran International Academy, which was the first American public Arabic language school in New York. Moreover, with her empowering voice, she has become the most influential advocate to celebrate causes and individuals who value freedom, justice, and equality.
Uniquely, Dr. Almontaser’s journey in politics grew stronger on February 2, 2017, when she played the role of the leader, speaker, and organizer for the 1000+ Yemini stores that were closed as opposed to the Muslim ban. It marked the day on which the Muslim Ban was signed into effect. In protest of the ban, many Yemeni-owned businesses closed their doors. Later that evening, a rally began with a Muslim call to prayer. It sparked a fire to speak truth to power amongst many Arabs in her community who believed that this country needed to provide, once and for all, a true trajectory toward equality and justice. With her united accomplishments, Debbie Almontaser referred to herself as the “change agent.” It was also during this time that she began her journey into the world of politics. Debbie Almontaser became more involved with multiple communities, including that outside of her home state of New York City.
What Does This Mean to Arabs
She is currently the Board President of the Muslim Community Network where she serves on panels, gives lectures, hosts workshops on cultural diversity and conflict resolution, and much more. Debbie Almontaser also the author of “Leading While Muslim,” which highlights the struggles of Muslims in today’s societies as the eye of the public places their judgments.
In summary, Dr. Almontaser has been in the spotlight for many Arab and Muslim Americans for a while now. She is an inspirational woman and a leader for Arab-American and Muslim relations in New York and has expanded her mission to many more states and countries. Her words, actions, and commitment to the Arab community have been a relief to those who have suffered from the judgment of others. Today, her success has led us into a new era, making history as the first Muslim woman ever to offer prayer at a presidential inaugural.
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