How America’s First Full-Time Muslim Activist Sparked a Movement | Salam Al-Marayati | Episode 8

In this powerful episode of The Muslim Nonprofit Show with Tayyab Yunus, we sit down with Salam Al-Marayati, the first full-time Muslim activist in the U.S. and co-founder of the Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC). From humble beginnings in Arizona to becoming a national leader in Muslim advocacy, Salaam shares his personal journey, the founding story of MPAC, and what it takes to stay grounded in Islamic values while working for justice in American society.

We explore the meaning of the “Ayat of life,” how Muslims can lead with faith, the power of institutional Zakat, and what it really means to be ready for leadership.

Whether you're an aspiring changemaker, nonprofit leader, or just looking to deepen your understanding of the Muslim-American story—this is a must-listen. 🎧 Tune in and don’t forget to 🔔 subscribe for future episodes with nonprofit founders, Islamic scholars, and sector experts.

📌Connect and Follow Dr. Tayyab Yunus: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/tayyabyunus/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/tayyabyunus YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@tayyabyunus 🔗 Connect and follow Salam Al-Marayati: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/salamalmarayati/

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/salam-al-marayati-6b0a28167 00:00 – Assalamu Alaikum & Guest Introduction  

01:20 – Salaam Al-Marayati: The First Full-Time Muslim Activist in the U.S.  

03:05 – From Arizona to UCLA: How a Mosque Changed His Life  

05:18 – Founding MPAC: A Vision Born in the Islamic Center  

07:40 – Meeting with Politicians & Media: Putting Muslims on the Map  

09:25 – The Jesse Jackson Moment: First Presidential Visit to a Masjid  

11:45 – Lessons from the Prophets: Understanding the “Ayat of Life”  

15:10 – Are Muslims Ready for Power? Building Internal Readiness  

17:48 – Zakat Beyond Charity: Advocacy, Liberation, and Influence  

20:30 – Advice for Young Muslim Activists & Founders  

22:05 – Why Most Muslim Organizations Fail to Scale  

23:45 – The Role of the Quran in Organizational Leadership  

25:10 – Aligning Islamic Values with American Ideals  

26:30 – Closing Reflections & Weekly Qur’an Halaqa Invitation  

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