 Having grown up with Christian neighbors, Esack became critical of discrimination against Christians and other religious minorities in Pakistan.Returning to South Africa in 1982, Esack became involved with activities of the Muslim Youth Movement of South Africa.He, along with three other members, left the organization in 1984 and helped form the Muslim anti-apartheid group Muslims Against Oppression, which later changed its name to Call of Islam, which became an important affiliate of the United Democratic Front.