Celebrating Six Decades of Achievement, Commitment, and Empowerment
By Rasheed Rabbi
July/August 2023
Do you care to commemorate a defining moment of Muslim Americans and honor their unwavering commitment spanning over 60 years? Are you ready to embark on an exciting journey with us, delving into the humble origin of a modest Muslim graduate student-led organization that has blossomed into an influential force to shape the very fabric of North American Muslim communities?
Brace yourselves to be amazed as ISNA unravels its inspiring story of championing unity, tolerance, and understanding, bridging the divide between Muslims and non-Muslims alike. For 60 years, ISNA had stood tall as an unparalleled beacon of hope, inspiring Muslim communities not only within North America but across the continents. As the Labor Day weekend approaches, we are graced with an unprecedented occasion to bear witness to Muslim communities’ profound dedication for six decades and celebrate with them.
ISNA invites all of you, our esteemed guests, to attend this historic celebration to partake in an event that will etch itself into the annals of history. Join us as we gather to commemorate, pay tribute to the tireless efforts and profound dedication of Muslim Americans. Be moved, inspired, and forever changed with ISNA’s commendable vision.
Founded in 1963, ISNA has emerged as a cornerstone in shaping the Muslim American identity. Although initially named MSA (Muslim Students Association of the United States and Canada) for tactical reasons, its foresight and vision were the same — all-encompassing — aiming for the “betterment of the Muslim community and society at large” within North America, as noted in its constitution. With tireless efforts and tremendous growth in the following 20 years, in July 1983, ISNA emerged from MSA as an umbrella organization in North America to foster religious and civic engagement, construct bridges of understanding, and reach out to individuals of diverse faiths and backgrounds. As new generations of activists and leaders assume their roles, ISNA remains steadfast in honoring the visionary founders and early pioneers who have guided its path since its inception, admiring and respecting their foresight and dedication.
So, this diamond jubilee is a deserving and defining moment for ISNA. It extends a cordial invitation to all to engage in reflecting the struggles and sacrifices of the past, embracing the victories and triumphs of the present, and forging ahead into the future with unyielding hope and profound gratitude. This occasion seeks to inspire and uplift, reaffirming our collective commitment to the all-encompassing and enduring mission of ISNA, and instilling optimism in the boundless potential that lies ahead. Don’t miss such an experience of transformation through commemoration, as we honor our shared history and lay the foundation for an even brighter future.
While the Rosemont Convention Center in Chicago may be a common venue for regular convention attendees, the CPC (Convention Program Committee), comprising several past presidents and founding members, is committed to offer an uncommon and captivating experience for audiences of all walks of life. Whether you are a young Muslim seeking a wellspring of inspiration, a seasoned activist eager to forge new connections, or simply yearning to immerse yourself in the comforting embrace of faith, this convention promises to leave an indelible mark.
Drawing inspiration from the central theme of “Sixty Years of Service: Navigating the Way Forward,” the CPC has meticulously crafted the design of the 60th convention with a dual purpose in mind. Firstly, it aims to facilitate a collective expression of heartfelt gratitude towards the predecessors who have consistently demonstrated unwavering commitment and made significant contributions. This endeavor seeks to engender a shared sense of excitement among all participants for ISNA’s successes and triumphs, while highlighting the organization’s maturity, longstanding presence, and noteworthy achievements.
Secondly, this convention aims to provide participants with diverse educational opportunities to envision a future, building upon past triumphs and then forging an inherently self-paced path towards it. By weaving together these two strategies, ISNA strives to deliver a dynamic event that equips each attendee with the necessary tools, knowledge, and inspiration to become catalysts of positive change both within their respective communities and beyond.
The second part of the convention’s theme, “Navigating the Way Forward,” carries significant relevance in the context of prevailing global circumstances. The far-reaching effects of the pandemic, coupled with the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict and other global tensions amid economic recession, have had a profound impact on our lives. As a result, this year’s convention seeks to specifically address the challenges confronted by our community, while simultaneously inspiring and encouraging active participation from attendees. The intention is to equip individuals with the necessary motivation and tools to effectively navigate these obstacles and make meaningful contributions towards overcoming them.
It is crucial to emphasize that, for the past 60 years, ISNA has organized this convention not only to impart knowledge but also to inspire and mobilize action. From the outset, the ISNA board has made a clear distinction in its approach. Instead of referring to it as a conference, typically attended by academics, scholars, and activists exchanging information and ideologies, ISNA designs it as a convention to foster a comfortable niche, grounded in shared values to foster a higher level of awareness, motivation, and commitment to taking immediate action.
For six decades, this gathering has enabled participants not only to feel motivated but also to become dedicated in putting forth necessary actions with sincerity. Attendees will not only be reminded of their voting rights but will also be taught the procedures for selecting ideal candidates, without endorsing any particular individuals or parties. This action-oriented gathering seeks to bring about tangible changes in pressing areas of concern, such as ensuring the election of independent representatives, combating Islamophobia, and empowering our youth to forge ahead.
These challenges represent just a fraction of the issues that Muslims face in America, and ISNA, driven by its grand vision, aims to address them comprehensively. Its systematic approach to identifying prominent problem domains within America and around the world is a testament to its unswayed commitment. To ensure a current and focused approach to addressing social and political issues, ISNA has established a formal Strategic Planning Committee (SPC).
The CPC has incorporated the analysis of the SPC, which, in collaboration with other like-minded organizations, has conducted an extensive examination to determine ISNA’s current position, future goals, and the path to achieving them. The May/June 2023 issue of the Islamic Horizons provided a glimpse into the SPC’s comprehensive and methodical approach to the sole quest of serving Muslim Americans. Based on its thorough analysis, the following key areas have emerged as focal points for the main sessions of this convention:
1. Spiritual: Exploring faith, devotion, and its practical application in daily life to shape an individual as an agent of God (Quran 2:31) for promoting positive change around us.
2. Political: Familiarizing political activism and civic engagement to thrive as an accountable being of God.
3. Social Issues: Discussing family matters, marriage, domestic violence, and fostering a healthy family environment to nurture a growth continuum.
4. Social Justice: Addressing poverty, racial and economic justice, and civil rights by imparting wisdom to navigate through the contemporary challenges.
5. Community: Emphasizing the role of the mosque, grassroots activism, and environmental concerns to facilitate efficient interaction within and beyond the community.
6. Youth: Recognizing and addressing the challenges faced by the youth to foster inclusivity.
7. Health: Preparing for future pandemics, and prioritizing mental health to seek professional help in accordance with faith guidelines.
8. Education: Discussing Muslim institutions, seminaries, professional and career development in the digital age to remain relevant for all audiences, while motivating each person to work towards a cause.
9. Interfaith Collaboration and Harmony: Promoting cooperation and understanding among different religious communities to establish common good and truths of all religions for a nation that is founded on the principle of “united we stand.”
In order to create a comprehensive and transformative convention, these critical areas of our time will be delved in such a way that all audiences – academic, political, and lay Muslims – can benefit and go home more committed.
The convention plans to commence with a special introductory session, setting the stage for a comprehensive program hosting a total of 10 main sessions and 20 parallel sessions. These sessions encompass a diverse range of formats, including workshops, seminars, and interactive formats aptly arranged to facilitate knowledge sharing and the exchange of experiences. The lineup of speakers and presenters is set to be exceptional, with distinguished scholars, renowned speakers, and accomplished artists hailing from various corners of the globe converging to share their profound wisdom and insights. From engaging lectures and enlightening workshops to captivating art exhibits and culturally rich performances, the convention promises to cater something interesting for everyone in attendance.
For history enthusiasts and the curious, the History Gallery is an unmissable attraction. Making its debut at the 50th ISNA convention, the Gallery will return with a collection of historical materials, including posters, photos, documents, and artifacts. Showcasing the growth of ISNA from its early years as MSA in the 1960s, 1970s, and early 1980s, the Gallery provides an opportunity for older visitors to reminisce about earlier times and for younger visitors to gain insight into the Islamic environment nurtured by their elders. All visitors will deepen their understanding of the sources of strength from which ISNA draws.
To celebrate its 60th year, ISNA describes hosting a main session where past presidents and leaders who have played pivotal roles in the organization’s growth. They will share their hopes and aspirations for ISNA’s future, intertwining an assessment of ISNA’s past accomplishments with its firm commitment to future growth.
Overall, this year’s convention presents an invaluable opportunity for our community to unite and commemorate our shared values, beliefs, and traditions. Attendees can strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood to carry out mutual learning and growth. By connecting with our collective past, we can chart a course for the future, empowering and inspiring each individual on their personal journey of transformation.
Everyone should seize this opportunity. The time has come to witness greatness, to celebrate triumph, and to be a part of a legacy that will resonate for generations to come. Don’t let this moment slip away. It’s an invitation to immerse in a community of passionate individuals who are committed to making a lasting impact; a community powered by a shared vision of unity, progress, and compassion. None should overlook such an invitation to be a part of something truly extraordinary.
Mark your calendars and secure your place at this grand affair, where we come together to honor the remarkable legacy of ISNA and the countless lives it has touched. Together, let us create a symphony of celebration — a testament to the enduring spirit of ISNA and the remarkable individuals who have paved the way for our shared future. Let us stand united, breaking barriers and forging new paths toward a brighter future. Join us as we make history, united under the banner of ISNA’s 60th anniversary.
Rasheed Rabbi is an IT professional who earned an MA in religious studies from Hartford Seminary and is pursuing a Doctor of Ministry from Boston University. He is also the founder of e-Dawah (www.edawah.net) and secretary of the Association of Muslim Scientists, Engineers & Technology Professionals. He serves as a khateeb and Friday prayer leader at the ADAMS Center and a certified Muslim chaplain at iNova Fairfax, iNovaLoudoun and Virginia’s Alexandria and Loudoun Adult Detention Centers.
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