News Recap – Week of 03/01/2020

ICNA-MAS will be hosting its 45th annual convention this year in Washington, DC from April 10-12. The Walter E. Washington Convention Center will also be the venue this year, with confirmed speakers including Imam Siraj Wahhaj, Shaykh Omar Suleiman, Sr. Zahra Billoo, Dr. Ihsan Bagby, Imam Mohamed Magid and many others.

ICNA’s history of Islamic work in the United States dates back to September of 1968. Over the next few years, ICNA established itself in many communities and started initiatives, such as WhyIslam, an outreach program started by Raza Farrukh, and ICNA Relief, an organization that “seeks to alleviate human suffering by providing caring and compassionate service to victims of adversities and survivors of disasters.” 

The move to DC also aligns with the increased involvement of Muslims in national politics. The executive director of the Center for Islam and Public Policy and former ICNA President, Dr. Zahid Bukhari  says American Muslims need to be more engaged in their communities. Shaykh Omar Suleiman also recently spoke at a Bernie Sanders rally, calling for “[a]n America of safety, dignity, love and unity. An America where we uplift our most vulnerable, celebrate our diversity, and unlock our collective genius.”

Along with the many panels and lectures scheduled, the conference will feature a variety of other activities including a bazaar, youth activities, and matchmaking events. ICNA is offering a 15% discount to sign up for the conference until March 31st.