History

The South Bay Islamic Association (SBIA) is a multi-cultural, community service, and religious organization that was established in 1978 with the goal of providing Islamic services to the community.

What began as a community-wide effort to establish congregational prayers in parks, homes, and offices etc, has today traveled a long way towards achieving its goals. SBIA was incorporated in the State of California in April of 1980, and is registered with the U.S. IRS as a 501(c )(3) – Non-Profit Tax Exempt Religious Organization. In 1981, by the grace of Allah, SBIA acquired the American Legion Building, located in downtown San Jose which has since served as SBIA headquarters and central mosque. This was the first mosque in the South Bay Area.

As the Muslim community in the Bay Area grew, so did the demand for more places of worship. By the gracious endowments of Allah (SWT) SBIA was able to respond to this growing demand by the establishment of a satellite mosque and community center in the Evergreen foothills. The Evergreen property was purchased in 1989, and we have been praying there since 1996. A long-term construction project is planned for this site to accommodate the needs of this community.

In 1997, Allah (SWT) blessed the SBIA as it was presented with the opportunity to contribute in the establishment of a Muslim facility a few miles south of San Jose. That facility is known today as the South Valley Islamic Center. It is situated in Morgan Hill and operates as an independent entity ( www.svic.org ).

We have also been praying Jumu’ah at the Napredak Hall since 1995. We get close to 500 people each Friday who attend the Jumu’ah at that site.

The SBIA is spreading the message of Islam through various Da’wah programs and a number of activities. After the unfortunate incident of 9/11, the SBIA has become more actively involved in promoting awareness about Islam and Muslims among our American neighbors who might adhere to other faiths.