By Sundus Abrar

Nov/Dec 2023

Trigger warning

Access to mental health treatment is not something new to Islam. Dating back to the 8th century, maristans (Farsi: a place of healing) were dedicated specialized wards for psychological illnesses within the larger Islamic hospital complex. They later became stand-alone institutions dedicated solely to treating the mentally ill. 

In the U.S., Maristan is a registered nonprofit based in California. Along with ISNA, it co-hosted a day-long suicide response training for community leaders at this year’s convention. It was led by Dr. Rania Awaad (co-founder of Maristan; clinical associate professor of psychiatry, Stanford University) and Dr. Sadiya Dhanani (fellow physician, Stanford University).

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recognizes Maristan’s training as a model to emulate and create best-practice guidelines in faith-based and interfaith communities that will be disseminated nationally. 

Stigma around mental health care is deep rooted within the Muslim community, and suicide is a prevailing concern. Assessing the risk of suicide is challenging, for Muslim families seldom report suicide deaths and attempts they believe it’s a sin. However, it’s still very much present. 

“As a North American Muslim community, we have fallen short. Our community has held mental health as a taboo, and suicide as a taboo within a taboo,” said Dr. Awaad. “It has taken far too long for us to acknowledge it.” 

Out-of-State Trainees

“It really is strange that we are not ready to talk about it,” said Farhiya Ahmed, one of the training’s attendees. She was referring to the devastating occurrence of a young engaged couple’s murder-suicide in her hometown of Columbus, Ohio — the third such death by suicide in the state’s Muslim community in three years. The couple was well known in the young women’s halaqa group that she mentored. 

Ahmed has an associate’s degree in Islamic studies and is currently pursuing a master’s in psychology. She felt compelled by her community’s uncertainty to make a one-day trip to Chicago solely to attend the training. “I didn’t even know how to verbalize around what happened and what words to use to calm the family and community.”

Attendee Umbreen Akram from Dallas recounts her uncertainty prior to attending the training around how to compassionately respond to a family’s recent loss due to a murder-suicide in the neighboring suburb of Allen. “I didn’t know if I should even attend the janaza. I questioned my intent. Would I be able to truly help beyond just being a spectator?” 

A software engineer by profession, Akram also serves as chaplain for a women’s prison and volunteers for Calls for Comfort, a call and text service for Muslimas who need support. She found deep reassurance in Dr. Awaad’s credentials in Islamic law and medicine. “It is important to have both included to understand the religious aspect and medical side of the issue to know how we can genuinely show up and hold space for families affected,” she said.

The training, which occurred on the convention’s final day, enabled community leaders from across North America to participate. It was the sixth event of its kind — but the first at ISNA — and included imams, mosque board members, chaplains, teachers, doctors and therapists from 11 American states and Canada. 

“I appreciate ISNA’s support in making this happen. It would have been really difficult to reach smaller remote communities without it,” said Dr. Awaad. 

Dr. Dhanani commended ISNA on its approach to addressing mental health and the convention’s relevant sessions. “ISNA’s forward thinking has helped bring this to the community,” she said.

If you or someone you know are in need of mental health support, please refer to resources on https://maristan.org/resources. In the event of a mental health crisis, please call/text the crisis hotline 988.

The Three Stages of Response 

Prevention: Having access to mental health and being aware of resources, such as calling 988. The community needs to address mental health issues seriously. Maristan has prepared khutbas on the topic. For more information on Maristan’s Community Suicide Response work specifically please visit: https://maristan.org/muslimsuicideresponse. 

Intervention: Addressing individuals with suicide ideation and responding appropriately. Trained professionals have specific guidelines that can ensure that the situation is handled in a helpful way and not escalated. 
Postvention: Addressing a suicide loss and guiding the community’s leaders on how to address it in order to avoid a contagion effect and reassure family and community. There are guidelines on how to report/discuss suicide. For example, people should not disclose specific details to prevent other attempts. Instead of saying “committed suicide,” we should say, “death by suicide.” Maristan also has a response team ready in the community to respond to events.

Sundus Abrar is a parent of two, residing in Chicago

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By MYNA Staff

Nov/Dec 2023

“MYNA is the place to be.”

This was the consensus of thousands of people set on making it inside the MYNA lecture hall throughout the ISNA Convention weekend.

On September 1st, MYNA youth opened the doors of their lecture hall to kick off the 39th annual convention. Throughout the evening, people peeked through the doors and were drawn into the sessions, taking their seats with people from every corner of the continent.

The biggest risk in facing the world as a Muslim youth is getting lost. 

When you need help, who are you asking? 

When you need a role model, who are you looking at? 

When you are lost, which path do you follow? 

The beauty of our deen is that we have been given answers to all these questions. In a world where it is so easy to get lost, it is important that we stick to Divine guidance. Throughout the weekend, the MYNA track focused on “Charting the Course” and walking through a survival guide for muslim youth. The weekend was designed as a comprehensive “Survival Guide” to equip young Muslims with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to thrive in their faith and identity.

MYNA youth planned out an engaging weekend with lectures, workshops, and activities. While the sessions were targeted specifically towards youth, they attracted everyone including young children and adult attendees, all racing to get seats in the MYNA sessions. There were various thought provoking topics, including Learning from “Their Legacy: The First Believers” and “God, Are You There?”. The MYNA hall quickly filled up and lines began forming outside the doors filled with people waiting to get into the MYNA sessions. MYNA was joined by a wide range of speakers, including Dr. Yasir Qadhi, Imam Mohamed Magid, Dr. Rania Awaad, and countless others.

Many people were learning about MYNA for the first time during the convention, and were pleasantly surprised to learn that every part of the youth sessions was planned and facilitated by youth from all over the country. As youth entered the MYNA Zone on the second floor, they were welcomed into an environment where they were surrounded by their peers–Muslim youth, all experiencing similar things and facing similar struggles. After experiencing the convention, countless youth were inspired to get involved with MYNA and continue to stay connected with their newfound community.

The convention was a resounding success, leaving attendees equipped with invaluable tools to navigate the complexities of adolescence while remaining steadfast in their faith. The event served as a beacon of hope, uniting youth from diverse backgrounds under the common banner of Islam. It is anticipated that the knowledge and connections forged during this convention will serve as a guiding light for Muslim youth on their journeys of faith and self-discovery.

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By Rasheed Rabbi & Convention ReportersTeam

Nov/Dec 2023

During the late evening of Sept. 2, Chicago’s Donald E. Stephen Convention Center buzzed with the eagerness of thousands of Muslims awaiting a unique religious experience as distinguished scholar Yasir Qadhi stepped onto the stage. But instead of dazzling the audience with a complex theological discourse, he led them on a journey through his own humble beginnings. With warmth and authenticity, he shared memories of Jamal Badawi (former member, ISNA Board) and this year’s recipient of the prestigious presidency award.

Sharing the same podium, Hisham Altalib, a living legend in ISNA’s history (an earliest leader of MSA and among founders of ISNA), requested for an extra minute, as his time came to close, only to complete the names and pay homage to those who had paved the path for Muslim Americans.

On Saturday afternoon, hundreds honored Ihsan Bagby, at this year’s sold-out Community Service Recognition Luncheon (CSRL) award. In his celebratory speech, he acknowledged the influence of Iqbal Unus (president, 1970-72). His gratitude flowed for wife, Waheedah Amatullah Muhammad, the guiding force behind his achievements.

On the evening of Sept. 3, a remarkable tableau unfolded. Twelve living ISNA presidents gathered on stage to receive well-deserved awards. All of them expressed their gratitude to those who had supported their leadership. If one missed a name, another swiftly rectified the oversight, thereby creating an awe-inspiring display of unity.

Honoring from the Heart 

These moments are mere glimpses of ISNA’s 60th convention, an event at which people from every corner of the globe converged to honor others. But this was far from an orchestrated performance; rather, it was a heartfelt repayment of a debt owed and a realignment with the past leaders’ shared path to success. In this age of Western modernism, where predecessors are often dismissed as outdated, the convention shone as a rare gem, illuminating a culture of respect that is increasingly precious. Such reverence is well-deserved because they directed the audience toward the perpetually radiant source of prophetic inspiration. 

Within this enclosure, the echoes of history and the spirit of gratitude guided attendees to transcend the boundaries of time and space, forging a profound connection with the prophetic tradition. Each speaker implored the audience to embrace the prophetic model so they can thrive amidst modern society’s temptations and distractions while remaining mindful of the Divine’s immersive authority.

The convention commenced with the jummah prayer, underscoring the significance of prophetic inspiration. President Safaa Zarour invoked the intense ambiance of the Day of Judgment, when even a nursing mother will be consumed by the weight of her worldly deeds. Asking how many of our deeds will be accepted on that day, he shared the myriad initiatives offered by ISNA and invited all attendees to help alleviate the burdens of accountability.

ISNA’s endeavors have expanded exponentially over the span of its six-decade existence, ushering in the formidable task of encapsulating it all within a three-day convention. To fulfill this goal, it crafted a systematic blueprint that unfolded during scores of sessions, featuring 150 speakers to reach 20,000 longing hearts. This often spiraled into daily commitments and the complexities of contemporary crises, as attendees felt too imperfect in their quest to connect with a perfect God. 

Providing the minutia of those moving sessions is constrained by space, but I feel compelled to offer a high-level overview of how these pivotal sessions are intricately interlaced to heighten our awareness of God and enhance our level of engagement.

Session Snippets

The convention commenced by delving into family dynamics. Shaykh Badawi shed light on the macro view of family, tracing it back to Adam (alaihi salaam) and how God ennobled the Children of Adam (Quran 17:70). He also spoke on the micro aspects of maintaining nobility within marital relationships. Abdullah Idris Ali (president, (1993-97), emphasized the concept of marriage and the ideal mindset required for it. Muhammad Nur Abdullah (president, (2002-06) highlighted the unique Islamic approach to embracing differences in race, culture, and color by emphasizing compassion in marriage. 

Muslema Purmul (chaplain, University of Southern California; co-founder, Majlis) structured these ideas into three tenets: the spiritual foundation to bring spirituality into everyday life, the intellectual foundation to understand eschatology and the embodiment or application of spirituality and knowledge in daily life.

Faith flourishes through interconnectedness and mutual support among families and broader communities. The next session delved into community cohesion. Imam Mohammed Faqih of Memphis stressed active listening and drawing inspiration from the first four caliphs, who valued open communication even during times of conflict. Mustafa Umar (religious director, Islamic Center of Irvine) elaborated on the Quranic applications as a theoretical constitution. Muhammad Ninowy (scholar, author, and physician) addressed using usul and fiqh to explain how clashes of the mind can result in clashes of the heart, leading to a loss of faith.

 Friday’s final session concentrated on adab, defined as engaging in the prophetic model to become resilient. Abdul Nasir Jangda (founder and director, Qalam Institute) explained that religious devotion is a vehicle toward one’s goal. Muhammad Akram Nadwi (dean, Cambridge Islamic College) stated that the Quran teaches us how to improve engagement by incorporating faith in our lives. He drew examples from the Prophet’s (salla Allahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) life. 

Ingrid Mattson (president, 2006-10), focused on keeping engagements positive during times of grief. Zaid Shakir (co-founder, Zaytuna College) stated that he held the attendees accountable for acting upon the Quran’s words to cultivate resilience in a world filled with multidimensional crises.

Saturday morning sought to address this accountability by making Islamic education in this country more engaging. Habeeb Qadri (educator, author, and youth activist) shared his research on students’ engagement levels and how technology can help increase them. Susan Labadi (member, ISNA’s Education Forum Committee) focused on including AI tools, specifically the KhanAmigo and Muraqaba mobile apps, to navigate the “Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous (VUCA) world facing unprecedented challenges” (https://muraqaba.app/).

Quality education is essential to dealing with discrimination, racism, Islamophobia, and other aspects of global diversity. Margari Hill (co-founder, MuslimArch) and Ameena Jandali (founding member, Islamic Networks Group) sought to raise awareness of these aspects for better engagements. Hill explained DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Access) training and the 4F (Fight, Flight, Freeze and Fawn) response to help people cope with uncomfortable situations. 

While these are internal aspects needed to change psychological mindsets, Jandali urged their application in external environments, such as hospitals and law enforcement teams, to facilitate a welcoming environment to engage unbiasedly with all. Ubaydullah Evans (executive director, American Learning Institute for Muslims) concluded the session by applying these techniques to address the community’s enduring racism and inequality.

On Saturday evening, the audience was ready to embark on the personal journeys of leading Muslim luminaries who overcame challenges and harnessed hope during difficult times. Dalia Mogahed (director of research, ISPU) shared a unique reflection on Quran 82:8: “when the girl [who was] buried alive is asked.” She noted that on the Day of Judgment, silent and inanimate objects will be given a voice, and then challenged the audience to reflect upon their accountability for the millions who silently suffer from discrimination, oppression, and injustice. 

Imam Shiraj Wahaj made a poignant reference to George Floyd’s death at the hands of Officer Derek Chauvin. He was convicted, and his fellow officers Tou Thao, Thomas Lane and J. Alexander Kueng were held accountable for their complicity. Wahaj cautioned against such complicity.

Closing Session

During the well-attended Saturday closing session, Shaykh Yasir Qadhi led us toward fulfilling that accountability simultaneously in this world and the hereafter. He urged the audience to sincerely acknowledge this country’s moral bankruptcy and family crises, even if “cancel culture” abandons us, because God is with us. He remarked that Muslims transcend the left-right and Democratic-Republican divides, because they are Muslims first, the Quran is their guide, and the Prophet is their role model. 

Hamza Yusuf (co-founder, Zaytuna College) explained that Quranic and prophetic engagement is a means to harness the light of righteousness, which will make Muslims recognizable on the Day of Judgment. He urged everyone to assess their actions and engagements to determine whether they are a source of light or of fire in the hereafter. Ieasha Prime (director of women’s programming, Dar-al-Hijra Islamic Center) assured the audience that everything Islam prescribes is for humanity as a whole, not just for Muslims.

Muslim Americans’ rationality and individual strength were the topics of discussion for Sunday morning’s session. Marium Husain (President, IMANA) explained how Islam makes complete sense when viewed through the lens of medical science. Imam Shamsi spoke on harnessing physical, intellectual, spiritual, mental and familial strength with faith to yield peace and tranquility in families. Uzma Syed (Chair, National Muslim COVID-19 task force) elaborated upon nurturing a relationship with oneself, and Rania Awaad (clinical associate professor, Stanford Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science) explained the Sunna’s teachings to utilize available resources to accept and manage overwhelming emotions.

The subsequent session brought together political leaders and figures to share the progress of American Muslims with the audience. Mizan Basrwy, the White House’s liaison to Muslim Americans, confirmed that President Biden had prioritized addressing Muslim American concerns and presented a letter from him. Representative Summer Lee (D-PA-12) voiced her concerns against the forces that work against minority communities like Muslims and African Americans.

The concluding Sunday main session was dedicated to youth empowerment. Hadia Mubarak, former MSA president, stressed the need to withhold judgment in order to radiate the unconditional love necessary to fostering a welcoming environment in our ever-diverse society. Yasmin Mogahed (author and international speaker) highlighted the current identity crises as a resulting complexity of extensive diversity without godly references. She pointed out that we used to question our national or ethnic identity, but now face basic questions about our gender or species. To counter the challenges posed by immoral societal norms, she pointed out the necessity of embodying a lifestyle rooted in constant engagement with godly guidance. 

Yahya Rodis (founding director, Al-Maqasid) referred to Surah al-Kahf to illustrate how God strengthened the hearts of those youth who demonstrated their faith both in words and action. Finally, Abdul Wahab Waheed (co-founder, Mifta Institute) ended the session by mentioning the impactful actions prescribed by the Prophet, highlighting that true influence means impacting more people rather than accumulating individual success and wealth.

The final session brought all 12 living ISNA presidents on stage, thereby exemplifying how to become impactful individuals. This convention stood as a powerful testament to unity, respect, and dedication, all central to ISNA’s mission. Additionally, the Q&A session with the Fiqh Council of North America’s scholars addressed a full-room audience to explain the Sharia rulings on such issues as mortgage, niqab, and divorce. 

ISNA’s History Panel covered the fascinating tale of ISNA’s emergence. The “Intentionally Parenting the Next Generation” session called for investing time in our children’s spiritual growth, and two AMSET sessions delved deeper into global warming and cognitive health. Each session echoed the call for Muslim engagement in mainstream society. 

This year’s convention served as a vibrant celebration of shared values, a living embodiment of prophetic inspiration, and a resounding call to engage in pursuits aligned with our passions. What set it apart was the continuous appropriation of each session’s engagement with the eschatological purpose of life, nurturing our “religious conscience” throughout. For the three days of the Labor Day weekend, these enriching sessions let us dwell in God’s presence, which is not a faraway heaven but resides within our awareness and engagement in every fleeting moment. We were offered a taqwa-infused framework to cultivate a reciprocal closeness to God as the most rational, comforting, and guiding force in our American lives.

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, iNova Loudoun and Virginia’s Alexandria and Loudoun Adult Detention Center.

Other contributors to the report are Kiran Ansari, Sundus Abrar, Rabiyah Syed, and Tasnova Khan

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July/August 2023

While you will be reading this issue, ISNA staff, the Convention Program Committee (CPC) and ISNA friends in Chicago are fervently putting the final touches  to welcome attendees from across North America.

The upcoming event is a landmark moment, the 60th year of ISNA’s founding as a student body. It has grown and continues to blossom forth.

In keeping with this year’s Convention theme, “Sixty Years of Service: Navigating the Way Forward,” the CPC has come up with a convention program with a dual purpose in sight.

We look forward to hosting you in Chicago this Labor Day weekend.

In May, more than 300 educators gathered in Chicago for ISNA’s 24th Educational Forum. With a theme focusing on enriching students’ lives, teachers and administrators from across the country learned about various topics in curriculum, Islamic studies, Arabic, and leadership. The highlight of the celebration banquet was the enthusiastic Keynote Speaker, Nabeela Syed, the first Muslim and youngest-ever member of the Illinois State Legislature.

In April, Islamic Horizons welcomed Kiran Ansari as assistant editor. She has a rich background in the field and will add to the magazine’s offerings.

A reality exists and, in this issue, we talk about it: single parenting. Whatever the reasons may be but more than often, in the Muslim community, single mothers and fathers feel stigmatized. While the acceptance may be improving slightly, there is still a lot of work that needs to be done. The community needs to invest time and money in creating special programs specifically for single parents. We need more support from the mimbars (pulpit) and stories about brave single parents in Islamic history.

Fawzia Mai Tung takes us on a wonderful journey to the birthplace of apples. Or should we say, the real apple! Taking an arduous journey, she examines many aspects and offers her observation that commercial apple orchards causing a natural crossing of cultivated and wild apples, threaten Eastern Kazakhstan’s centuries-old natural fruit. 

It may surprise many of us that the tentacles of Hindu caste discrimination have been spreading in the United States. Shakeel Syed shares that unable to exercise their right to protest in India, the caste-oppressed Dalits – the lowest in the caste system — in the U.S. have started speaking up against the age-old discrimination and oppression. American and Canadian cities and states are moving forward to confront this violative system. The state of California became the latest when Aisha Wahab, a refugee from Afghanistan and a first-time elected California Senator, successfully advanced her bill SB-403 out of the State Senate voting 34-1 to ban caste-based discrimination.

Lisa Kahler shares that Islamic presence south of the border is much larger than many may assume. She talks about the cross border support for the growing Latino Muslim community and how institutions based in Southern California are working in a variety of ways to support Latino Muslims.

The trials and tribulations of Muslims living in Muslim states continue. Tunisia is one such example. Monia Mazigh tells us what pain the police state is casting on its people.

Prof. Khaled A. Beydoun states that the recent wave of optimism surrounding new Saudi-Iran relations demands a critical examination that transcends the surface-level narrative of reconciliation. While it is tempting to view the thawing of tensions as a positive development for regional stability, a closer look reveals underlying motives and complexities that warrant skepticism.

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July/August 2023

Six decades of bringing the community together is no small feat. From humble beginnings in 1963, today ISNA is a household name in North America. Hundreds of thousands of Muslims and neighbors from other faiths have attended the popular annual convention over the years. 

But this year from September 1-4, brace yourself for a jam-packed weekend of spirituality, civic engagement, entertainment – and of course food and shopping. From matrimonial services and basketball tournaments to an art and film festival, ISNA aims to provide activities for all ages and interests.  

“60 Years of Service: Navigating the Way Forward” is the theme of the convention this year. The focus is two-fold: celebrating the accomplishments of the last six decades and planning for the future. ISNA recognizes that it would not have grown today without the sacrifices and hard work of its founders and successors. However, at the same time, we need to look at our current landscape and figure out how to continue serving the growing Muslim community in the future. 

“With the grace of God and support from our community, ISNA has ably served the community for 60 years, and we are ready to embark on our journey for the next 60.” said Basharat Saleem, Executive Director of ISNA. “In this time, our needs have evolved, but ISNA’s mission has been and will be to serve our beloved community. We are undergoing a strategic planning process and nationwide surveys to better understand these needs.”

Saleem is spearheading the convention planning with regular meetings, steering committee coordination, and other preparations. “Every year, we try to take it up a notch, so we are hoping more people join us this Labor Day weekend in Chicago. In 2022, due to COVID-19, we weren’t sure if we would be able to have an in-person convention, so we couldn’t plan in advance. But this year, we got the ball rolling much sooner, and we cannot wait to share the programming with you,” he added. 

ISNA has invited Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai and the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim. The highlight of the convention is always the star-studded panel of speakers that inspire, enlighten, and rejuvenate our minds and soul. Some of the confirmed speakers for the 60th Convention include family favorites Dr .Yasir Qadhi, Imam Zaid Shakir, and Shaykh Abdul Nasir Jangda. Among the amazing female speakers, ISNA has confirmed Dr. Ingrid Mattson, Ustadha Ieasha Prime, Dalia Mogahed, and Dr. Rania Awaad.

Something for Everyone

“We are coordinating with Chi-Care in Chicago to hopefully have a huge service project during the Convention,” said Tabasum Ahmad, Convention Project Manager. “We are finalizing the details to try to be able to feed 60,000 homeless people with a food packaging or distribution drive. Keeping with the 60th-anniversary theme, we will also have 60 raffles so there will be lots of opportunities to go home with prizes.”

Another new exhibit planned for the 60th convention is an Afghan art gallery. With the recent influx of refugees, ISNA is coordinating with a local artist to showcase their resettlement journey through art. He might even be able to have a hands-on kite-making workshop!

While the ISNA Board and staff always tries to bring new ideas to the convention, they are also happy to repeat events that were a big hit in the past. For instance, they received great feedback about the robotics program last year. So they have invited the Texas company again. Ditto for the fashion show. Women enjoyed seeing the diverse styles and fabrics from different parts of the Muslim world. 

ISNA recognizes that its convention is attended by Muslims from all walks of life. Some are looking to increase their religious knowledge. Some are looking for spouses and others wish to network with like-minded individuals. If viable, ISNA is also planning a career and entrepreneurship event so people can network and find better job opportunities and leads for their business. During the virtual conventions due to the pandemic, they had speakers who are Muslim founders or CEOs of large companies like Edible Arrangements and Ethan Allen. 

If you are interested in adding value to ISNA’s 60th Convention with a live cooking demonstration, calligraphy workshop, men’s fashion show, or any other ideas, send your proposals to [email protected]. Let the ISNA team know as soon as possible what you can bring to the table. At press time, there are several other plans in the pipeline. The shape and form of some of the events may change by September depending on various factors. However, rest assured this is going to be a convention you will remember for years, in sha Allah.

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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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The post Experience ISNA’s Transformative Convention for 2023 appeared first on Islamic Horizons.