- The convention in Dallas marks the first event of its kind in ISNA's history.
- It is the largest gathering of Muslims in the United States.
- Convention to address problems facing the Muslim community.
DALLAS: The 61st annual convention of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) has begun at the Anatole Convention Center in Dallas, where around 20,000 members of the community are expected to attend.
On the first day of the convention, Friday, ISNA's central president and other officials held a joint press conference, announcing that more than 150 prominent speakers had been invited to address the convention.
In addition to the panel discussions and interfaith receptions, other activities have been organised. The ISNA Bazaar has been set up with over 350 stands. The convention includes recreational activities such as sports and entertainment programmes, with performances by singers and Qawwali sessions.
Following Friday prayers on the first day, the opening ceremony was attended by several officials and various members of the faith and community leaders.
ISNA, the largest representative organization of Muslims in the region, organizes the convention in different states of the United States every year. The Dallas convention is the first such event in ISNA's 61-year history.
It is the largest gathering of Muslims in the United States, attended by people of other faiths, international leaders and senior federal government officials.
After the press conference, speaking with Geo newsISNA Chairwoman Safaa Zarzour, Convention Chairman Azhar Azeez, Mujeeb Qazi, the first Muslim chaplain in the US Army, Jabeen, Rifaat Malik and others stated that officials from the White House as well as local, state and federal levels would participate in ISNA programs.
The purpose of this convention is to unite people of various religions under the banner of peace and goodwill. In addition, the convention will address the issues facing the Muslim community in North America and put pressure on American officials to resolve international issues affecting Muslims, including Palestine, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), and Sudan, among other countries.
In his opening remarks, Zarzour said the convention is an excellent platform for people of different religions within society.
He stressed that this is not just an event for Muslims, but an event for the entire United States.
“It serves as an excellent means of representation for people of diverse faiths, their families, businesses and volunteer organizations,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of religion in addressing the challenges facing society and fostering social change.
ISNA is the oldest and largest Muslim organization in the United States and Canada, founded in 1963, and has been actively working for the welfare of Muslims.
