A Personal Note of Gratitude and Purpose
This note is to thank all my friends in Washington, D.C., for their support, kindness, and friendship over the years.
I came to Washington, D.C., with a clear purpose: to establish and strengthen the Center for Pluralism (CFP). By the grace of God, much of that mission has been fulfilled, though there is still more meaningful work ahead.
Today, the Center for Pluralism is recognized by many respected institutions, including those on Capitol Hill, the Department of State, the International Religious Freedom (IRF) Roundtable, and numerous civic organizations. We originally founded CFP, the Foundation for Pluralism, in Dallas in 1996, and we are now proudly entering our 30th year of service.
When I first arrived in Washington, I had the honor of being interviewed by Frank Islam:
Follow-up interview:
You can also read the full story here:
Building Bridges Through the Center for Pluralism
Over 75,000 people have participated in our programs, including:
- Unity Day
- Holocaust and Genocide Education Events
- Festivals of Faiths
- Community Dialogues
- Interfaith Understanding Programs
Visit: www.CenterforPluralism.com
The impact of these gatherings has been deeply encouraging. Many participants shared that they began seeing others as fellow human beings rather than strangers. Others said the programs helped reduce personal bias, increased understanding, and opened their hearts.
That is the power of pluralism.
A National Voice for Interfaith Marriages
One of the greatest joys of my life has been officiating 618 interfaith marriages involving people from:
- 13 faith traditions
- 77 cities across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the UK, and Europe
- 98 ethnic backgrounds
Several of these were beautiful destination weddings.
Before each ceremony, I often conduct a brief 7-minute peace of mind reflection for nearly 50,000 attendees over time.
I ask two simple but life-changing questions:
- What do I lose if someone worships differently?
- What is the essence behind worship, clothing, food, or cultural practices?
Learn more at: www.InterfaithMarriages.org
Work as a Muslim and Global Citizen
My work as a Muslim community leader can be seen at:
I have always believed faith should unite people, not divide them. Whether through Islam, interfaith dialogue, or civic engagement, my goal has remained the same:
To build understanding among people of all backgrounds.
Organizations and Friendships in Washington, D.C.
During my time in Washington, I was privileged to be involved with several organizations, including:
- Jewish Islamic Dialogue Society
- Jews, Muslims and Allies Together
- National Council of Indian Americans (NCAIA)
- International Religious Freedom Roundtable
- Many additional community initiatives
I remain deeply grateful to every individual who supported our shared efforts.
And I will absolutely stay connected with dear friends including:
Zafar, Tariq, Masood, Rani, Andra, Andrea, Fatima, Charles, Walter, Gary, Frank, Arif, Eman, Safi, and many others.
Eleven Meaningful Years in Washington
I arrived in Washington, D.C., on May 15, 2015.
I will leave on May 15, 2026.
That marks 11 unforgettable years of service, friendship, growth, and purpose.
However, I cannot leave Washington without expressing heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Humaira, who supported my mission and allowed me to stay in her condo at a much lower rental rate than market prices.
That generosity made it possible for me to continue nonprofit work for the Center for Pluralism and the World Muslim Community.
Thank you, Humaira.
Why I Am Returning to Dallas
A City Filled with Lifelong Friends
Dallas holds a special place in my heart.
I have a wide circle of friends there from many communities:
- Atheists
- Bahá’í
- Buddhists
- Christians
- Dalits
- Daoists
- Hindus
- Jains
- Jews
- Sikhs
- Muslims
- Native Americans
- LGBTQ community members
That diversity reflects the America I love.
Recent Visits That Changed My Perspective
Recently, I returned to Dallas for three meaningful events:
- Dr. Basheer Ahmed’s 90th birthday
- John Hammond’s mother’s 90th birthday
- Recognition of Dr. Basheer Ahmed as a donor to University of Texas at Dallas, including the naming of an auditorium in his honor
During those visits, I met nearly 500 friends, and many warmly urged me to come home to Dallas.
The Real Reason: Family
What truly changed my heart was spending two precious days with my grandchildren.
I realized how much I had been missing.
My son and daughter-in-law have guided them beautifully and enrolled them in excellent schools. My 12-year-old grandson now stands 5 feet 9 inches tall.
I loved watching them:
- Play soccer
- Swim
- Play piano
- Compete in water polo
- Receive math tutoring
- Grow into remarkable young people
Now, nearing 75 years old, I know this season of life matters deeply.
I do not want to miss a thing.
Special Thanks to Fatima
Thanks to Fatima, who quietly saw my inner struggle about returning to Dallas.
She found a place and suggested we purchase it. Her encouragement and enthusiasm became an important part of this decision.
Sometimes people help us move forward without making noise.
Past Leadership in Dallas
Dallas is also where I served in many civic roles, including:
- President of Indian Creek Homeowners Association
- Commissioner in the City of Carrollton
- President, North Texas Cricket Association
- Board Member, Dallas Peace Center
- Board Member, Memnosyne Foundation
- Mayor’s Task Force, City of Dallas
I also organized Yahoo Groups including:
- Dallas Indians (1900+ members)
- Dallas Pakistanis (900+ members)
- Dallas Bangladeshis (100+ members)
- Dallas Nepalese
- Dallas Sri Lankans
Recent Recognition in the News
Recent articles about me include:
- Mr. Pluralist of America
- A Lamp That Connects Hearts — A Radiant Journey of Love, Thought, and Service
- Background of Dr. Mike Mohamed Ghouse
Who Is Dr. Mike Ghouse?
Dr. Ghouse is the President and founder of the Center for Pluralism and director of the World Muslim Congress. He is an Interfaith Wedding Officiant for InterfaithMarriages.org and a Muslim Wedding Officiant. He is a Muslim, Pluralist, activist, speaker, author, and social scientist. More on- Google
Final Reflection
Washington, D.C. gave me purpose, friendships, and impact.
Dallas offers family, roots, and the next chapter.
I leave Washington with gratitude.
I return to Dallas with joy.
And I continue the mission of pluralism wherever I go.
FAQs
Why did Dr. Mike Ghouse move to Washington, D.C.?
He moved to establish and grow the Center for Pluralism.
Why is Dr. Mike Ghouse returning to Dallas?
To reconnect with family, grandchildren, lifelong friends, and community roots.
What is the Center for Pluralism?
An organization promoting understanding, diversity, and harmony among communities.
How many interfaith marriages has Dr. Mike Ghouse officiated?
He has officiated 618 interfaith marriages.
How long did he live in Washington, D.C.?
For 11 years, from May 15, 2015 to May 15, 2026.
What is Dr. Mike Ghouse known for?
He is known for pluralism advocacy, interfaith work, speaking, writing, and community leadership.