The annual Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) convention, held in Dallas, USA, achieved a historic milestone with a record-breaking attendance of 20,000 people. The three-day event, which reached its maximum registration capacity by the second day, saw hundreds turned away due to the overwhelming response.
The convention featured a diverse array of sessions and activities aimed at addressing a wide range of topics relevant to the Muslim community. These included discussions on women’s issues, youth affairs, and general life challenges in the United States, as well as international concerns and their potential solutions. The sessions were designed to offer attendees practical insights from experts and provide valuable information on navigating various aspects of life.
One of the convention’s highlights was a seminar on the ‘Blasphemy Law,’ where experts argued that the law contradicts Sharia principles, citing references from the Quran and Hadith to support their views. This seminar was part of a broader effort to engage with critical and contemporary issues affecting the Muslim community.
In recognition of humanitarian efforts, the convention honored doctors who had provided medical assistance in Gaza. Among the awardees were several Pakistani doctors, acknowledged for their dedication and service in challenging conditions. Dr. Suleman Lalani, a member of the Texas State Assembly, underscored the importance of making impactful choices and praised the doctors for their contributions to the Gaza crisis.
Dr. Ikram, one of the award recipients, shared a poignant account of his experience in Gaza. He recounted the severe conditions faced by Palestinians but noted the resilience and enduring spirit of the people he encountered. His wife, Banish Ikram, expressed her family’s support for his mission and their pride in contributing to the relief efforts.
The final day of the convention was marked by various recreational and sports activities, providing attendees with a range of engaging experiences. A notable feature was the poetry session (Mushaira), which showcased poets from India and Pakistan. The session, presided over by renowned poet Noor Amrohvi, featured performances by prominent poets including Abbas Tabish and several poets from Kashmir, such as Dr. Tauqeer Gilani, Tariq Hashmi, and Wasif Hussain. The poetry session was met with enthusiastic applause and appreciation from the audience.
Additionally, the ISNA bazaar was a hub of activity, with numerous stalls offering a variety of goods. Both shoppers and stallholders benefited from the bustling atmosphere, making the bazaar a vibrant and integral part of the convention.
The success of the convention was attributed to the collaborative efforts of ISNA’s organizers and volunteers. Azhar Aziz, a former ISNA president from Dallas, played a significant role in the event’s organization, contributing to its success and historical attendance.
The ISNA convention in Dallas not only set a new record but also served as a significant platform for addressing critical issues, celebrating cultural contributions, and fostering community engagement. The event’s record turnout underscores the growing importance and impact of such conventions in bringing together diverse communities and addressing their collective concerns.
