With great sadness, the Progressive Muslim community recently learned of the passing of Imam Daayiee Abdullah. To many people he was the first openly gay imam, an icon who stood for authenticity, bravery, and justice, a living example of what an Islam that is inclusive of all could be. And of course, he was all of these things. But to me, he was a dear friend, someone I could confide in and turn to when feeling overwhelmed and challenged by the world and politics of activism.

Creating this fundraising page is our way to help his family raise the money needed to repatriate his body to the U.S. and for funeral expenses. Any funds left over will be used to archive his works, memorializing his legend so future generations will know of his contribution to progressive Islam and the many lives he helped lift up. If you are willing to help us in this effort, please write to us at info@mpvusa.org. May his work live on.

MPV has committed to matching the first $1,000 to this fund. We hope you will give generously.

Sincerely,

Ani Zonneveld

Founder, President

About Imam Daayiee Abdullah

Imam Daayiee Abdullah was a popular imam known for advocating progressive ideals within Islam. Born in 1954 in Michigan, Imam Daayiee grew up in an African American community and was raised in the Christian faith. Throughout his entire life, Imam Daayiee held fond memories of his childhood, neighborhood, and the people in his life.

He converted to Islam during his college years after being introduced to the faith through friendships while studying in China. What stood out for him was how different it was from the type of Islam he knew back in the United States.

Later, Imam Daayiee pursued Islamic studies and became a spiritual leader. He first founded the Light of Reform Mosque in Washington, D.C., welcoming the marginalized, including LGBTQ+ Muslims.

He was a Board Member of Muslims for Progressive Values and then founded MECCA Institute in 2014. MECCA Institute is an Islamic education institution that promotes scholarly understanding and engagement from the perspective of Progressive Islam.

Imam Daayiee’s Contributions

Co-Founder Pride Interfaith Services (Washington D.C.), 1984

LGBTQ Rights in Islam - A video series developed in partnership with Muslims for Progressive Values

What is Progressive Islam - A self-published book

MECCA Institute of Islamic Studies - Founder

Fundraiser for the late Imam Daayiee Abdullah