DALLAS: The 61st annual convention of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) began at the Anatole Convention Centre in Dallas, expecting around 20,000 attendees from the community. The convention’s first day on Friday featured a joint press conference by ISNA’s central president and other officials, announcing over 150 prominent speakers set to address the event.
The convention includes a wide range of activities such as roundtable discussions, interfaith receptions, and the ISNA Bazaar, which has over 350 booths. Additionally, there are recreational activities, including sports, entertainment, and Qawwali sessions. The inaugural ceremony, held after Friday prayers, was attended by officials, faith leaders, and community representatives.
As the largest representative organization of Muslims in North America, ISNA organizes this convention annually in various states across the United States. This year’s convention in Dallas marks a first in ISNA’s 61-year history and represents the largest gathering of Muslims in the country, drawing participation from diverse faiths, international leaders, and senior federal officials.
Following the press conference, ISNA President Safaa Zarzour, Convention Chair Azhar Azeez, Mujeeb Qazi, the first Muslim chaplain in the American Army, and others told Geo News that officials from the White House, as well as local, state, and federal levels, would take part in ISNA’s programs.
The convention’s theme focuses on fostering peace and goodwill among people of all faiths. It also aims to address issues facing the Muslim community in North America while advocating for American officials to address international concerns affecting Muslims, including those in Palestine, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK), and Sudan.
In his opening address, Zarzour emphasized that the convention serves as a platform for people of all religions, stating that it is “not just an event for Muslims, but an event for all of America.” He highlighted its role in representing diverse faiths, families, businesses, and volunteer organizations, and underlined the importance of religion in addressing societal challenges and driving social change.
Established in 1963, ISNA is the largest and oldest Muslim organization in the US and Canada, dedicated to promoting the welfare of Muslims in North America.
