Moorish Americans: A Controversial Religious Movement Rooted in US History (video)
The Moorish Americans, founded by Noble Drew Ali in 1913, are a unique community claiming descent from an ancient Moroccan empire. With 40,000 to 80,000 followers, they emphasize distinct attire and maintain about 90 temples. Their controversial beliefs, including claims of land ownership and rejection of U.S. laws, create tension with authorities.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
In the diverse tapestry of American religious and cultural groups, the Moorish Americans stand out as a unique and often misunderstood community. Founded in 1913 by Noble Drew Ali, this movement has grown from its humble beginnings in Newark, New Jersey, to become a nationwide phenomenon with an estimated 40,000 to 80,000 followers across the United States.
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Origins and Beliefs
The Moorish American movement, also known as the Moorish Science Temple of America, traces its roots to the early 20th century. Followers believe they are descendants of an ancient Moroccan empire that once stretched from North Africa to North America. This belief forms the cornerstone of their claim to be the rightful heirs to American lands, which they consider part of their ancestral Moroccan empire.
Distinctive Practices and Symbols
Moorish Americans are easily recognizable by their distinctive attire. Men typically wear red fezzes, while women don turbans. The group also maintains its own identity documents and prominently displays the Moroccan flag in their temples, of which there are approximately 90 scattered throughout the country.
Tensions with Authorities
The relationship between Moorish Americans and US authorities has been fraught with tension. The group's refusal to participate in World War I marked an early point of conflict. More recently, confrontations with law enforcement have made headlines, such as a standoff with police in Boston in 2021. Perhaps most notably, in 2013, members of the group attempted to seize a mansion in Washington, D.C., claiming ownership based on their interpretation of historical treaties.
Controversial Claims and Practices
The Moorish American movement has stirred controversy due to several of its core beliefs and practices. Their claim to ownership of American lands, rejection of US laws in favor of their own interpretation of "sovereign citizenship," and their unique blend of Islamic and Christian teachings have all contributed to their contentious status in American society.
Despite the controversies surrounding them, the Moorish American movement continues to persist and even grow within the United States. As America grapples with issues of identity, religion, and historical legacy, the Moorish Americans remain a fascinating case study in the complexities of cultural and religious diversity in the modern United States.
