Tuesday November 26, 2024
By Abdirizak M Diis
Leaders and participants of the Islamic Association of North America (IANA) pose for a group photo during the 23rd Annual General Assembly held in Columbus, Ohio, on November 22-23, 2024. The assembly, themed "Unity in Times of Trials," brought together representatives from 39 Islamic centers across the United States to foster collaboration, address pressing challenges, and chart a unified path forward for Muslim communities. CREDIT: Somali TV Minnesota
COLUMBUS, Ohio (HOL) — The Islamic Association of North America (IANA) held its annual General Assembly on November 22-23, bringing together representatives from 39 Islamic centers across the United States. Under the theme "Unity in Times of Trials," the two-day event focused on fostering collaboration to address challenges facing Muslim communities.
Imams, scholars, community leaders, and humanitarian organizations attended the event.
"Unity is not just a theme; it is essential for our survival and growth as a community," said Sheikh Mohamed Mursal, the outgoing Board Chair. Speakers warned that divisions within the community could undermine collective efforts, emphasizing the need for solidarity to address social and political challenges.
IANA leaders presented a comprehensive overview of the organization's accomplishments over the past six years. Key initiatives included youth and family support programs, civic engagement efforts, and humanitarian aid projects. However, they acknowledged financial constraints as a significant hurdle. To address this, the assembly approved the establishment of an Endowment Fund (WAQF) aimed at securing long-term financial stability.
The annual report also highlighted the creation of the IANA Sharia Advisory Board and updates on youth development programs. "The challenges we face require us to stand together and support one another," Sheikh Mursal emphasized during his address.
A keynote address by the Somali Ambassador to the United States added a geopolitical dimension to the gathering. The ambassador commended IANA for its 23 years of service and called for the establishment of a Somali consulate in Minneapolis to better serve the large Somali diaspora. "A consulate would strengthen ties within our community and enhance our ability to meet its needs," the ambassador noted.
In partnership with the Muslim Legal Fund of America (MLFA), IANA hosted civil rights training for Imams and directors of Islamic centers. The sessions equipped participants with tools to combat Islamophobia and xenophobia while navigating interactions with law enforcement.
The assembly also marked a leadership transition as Sheikh Abdirizak Hashi was elected as the new Board Chair. He succeeds Sheikh Mursal, who led the organization through a period of significant growth. "I am honoured to lead this organization at such a crucial time," said Sheikh Hashi. "Together, we will build on the strong foundation laid by our predecessors and meet the evolving needs of our community."
Delegates passed several key resolutions to guide IANA's future:
- Establishing an Endowment Fund to ensure financial sustainability.
- Expanding Youth Development Programs to foster engagement and leadership.
- Promoting Civic Engagement initiatives to strengthen Muslim representation.
"IANA is committed to addressing the challenges our community faces while empowering our youth and strengthening our advocacy efforts," said Yusuf Abdulle, IANA's Executive Director.
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