Wednesday September 4, 2024
Participants, scholars, and leaders gather at the 21st annual Islamic Association of North America (IANA) conference in Minneapolis on September 1, 2024. The event highlighted key discussions on family stability, unity, and the preservation of Islamic culture, with special recognition for Qur’anic students. [Credit: Supplied
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn (HOL) — The Islamic Association of North America (IANA) held its 21st annual conference in Minneapolis on Sunday, drawing attention to critical issues such as unity, family stability, and preserving Islamic culture. Leaders and scholars addressed hundreds of attendees, offering insights and programs to strengthen the Muslim community across the United States.
IANA, representing a network of mosques and Islamic centers across the U.S., provided leadership training programs for youth, imams, and mosque administrators. The conference also celebrated the achievements of students who graduated from Qur’anic studies, with certificates presented to recognize their commitment.
“The importance of teaching our children their religion, preserving their culture, and securing their future cannot be overstated,” said Sheikh Mohamed Mursal, chairman of IANA’s Shura Council. He stressed that Somali families face numerous challenges, such as drug addiction, lack of educational resources, mental health crises, and homelessness, urging a community-wide effort to address these issues.
The theme, “Clarifying in Times of Confusion,” was chosen to guide discussions on the complexities affecting the Muslim community today, from political turmoil to familial breakdowns. “Our community is facing confusion in so many areas,” said Sheikh Yussuf Abdulle, IANA’s Executive Director. “From family instability to education and political uncertainty, it’s important to provide clarity and guidance.”
Throughout the day, lectures were delivered in English and Somali, addressing topics such as U.S. elections, Islamic character development, mental health, and family unity. One of the key messages was the importance of Muslim participation in the American political process, with scholars encouraging the community to advocate for their interests.
Attendees praised the event for its organization and the diversity of issues covered. “The sessions were well-structured, and I learned a lot,” said Fadumo Hassan, a 25-year-old participant. “I also appreciated the safe space for children while the adults were engaged in the lectures.”
Mahad Farah, who arrived in the U.S. in 2004, proudly shared that his three children received certificates for completing their Qur’anic studies. “I’m deeply grateful to the Somali scholars for their ongoing efforts to preserve our religion and cultural identity,” he said.
The event featured respected scholars, including Amir Muhadith, Sheikh Okasha Kameny, Sheikh Mufti Muneer, and Ustadhah Kaltun Karani, as well as prominent Somali religious figures such as Sheikh Abdirahman Sheikh Omar and Sheikh Abdirizak Hashi.
Reflecting on the success of the conference, Sheikh Yussuf Abdulle noted the positive feedback from attendees. “The turnout was excellent, the topics were engaging, and the participation was active. This year’s event was truly a success,” he said.