Our Story

The story of the Islamic Center of Seattle (ICS) – Masjid As-Salaam began in the early 1960s, when the first Muslim families gathered in the Puget Sound area. As Seattle grew into a global city, a small but dedicated community of Muslims from diverse backgrounds came together with a shared vision: to establish a place of worship, education, and unity for future generations.

Among the founding families were Mushtaque Junejo (Pakistan), Jamil Abdul Razzak (Iraq), Mohammed and Anne El-Moslimany (Egypt), Dr. Joseph and Munira DiCaprio (Turkey), and others who joined in this historic effort. In 1973, the community began fundraising for an Islamic center, and on March 15, 1974, they purchased the property at 3040 S. 150th Street, establishing what became the first mosque in Washington State.

Through the dedication, sacrifice, and generosity of these early families, the Sea-Tac Mosque—now known as the Islamic Center of Seattle – Masjid As-Salaam—became a foundation for the Muslim community throughout Washington and the Pacific Northwest. Today, it is lovingly recognized as the “Mother Mosque of Washington,” carrying forward a legacy built on faith, unity, service, and the belief that a strong Muslim community is essential for generations to come.