Board Profile: Nayyra Ilyas
As interviewed by Alex Bradley

Nayyra Ilyas, although a long time resident of Pittsburgh since 1969, is a recent addition to the Board of Directors having been elected just this spring. A long time and active member of the Islamic Center of Pittsburgh, she’s also a mother of four grown children.  In her capacity as a board member, she serves on the membership committee.

How did you get involved in the Merton Center?
Some of us drove to Washington for a protest over the situation in the Balkans, and when I got back, I learned that the Center had taken a bus there.  I started attending the annual Merton Award Dinner and, before the war started, I ended up joining some of the rallies. While there, I met Molly Rush and some other members.  From there, I started learning more about the Center’s mission.  Later, some friends of mine encouraged me to join the board. 

The time since September 11^th has definitely been a trying time for many. Do you feel things are getting better now or worse?
Right after 9-11 there was this huge backlash. Now, when you see and hear the news you come to the conclusion that things are still bad, but more people react thoughtfully to things.

How can anti-racist allies assist the Islamic Center and others in countering the current racism and misinformation that’s out there?

I’d say the most important thing is education, letting people know what Islam and the Islamic center are.  Encouraging people to educate themselves. 

Anything particular happening this month? 
Right now our entire community is fasting for Ramadan, the 9^th month of the Muslim calendar, which runs from October 15^th until November 15^th.  I wake up at 5:30am to eat breakfast then fast until sundown (around 6:30pm) each day. 

Is there anything coming up that you’re particularly excited about?
Kerry is going to be here tomorrow. I have a ticket to see him speak at CMU.

Speaking of the election, do you have any special plans for Nov. 2^nd?
Well, I’m going to vote. Later, I’ll probably be glued to the TV.  If Kerry wins, I might celebrate a little :)

Do you have anything you want to say to the TMC membership?
I just enjoy being with people around here, helping out how I can.  I’m trying to learn as much as I can to educate myself. 

You can learn more about the Islamic Center of Pittsburgh and Islam at: www.icp-pgh.org/

Nayyra Ilyas (Photo by Marie Skoczylas)