Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) Conference West Zone

By Susan Schwartz

The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) in conjunction with the Islamic Shura Council of Southern California (ISCSC) held a highly successful West Zone Conference at the Hyatt Regency in Long Beach, Ca. this past weekend.

Nearly 900 people attended a series of workshops and speeches. The theme of the Conference was: Rejuvenate the Spirit of Islam. The event began Friday afternoon with Jumu’ah and was followed by an inauguration session before the workshops began.

The Muslim Student Association (MSA) and the Muslim Youth of North America (MYNA) were also present with workshops and a field trip.

Outstanding scholars addressed the Conference and provided thoughtful presentations that were followed by lively question and answer sessions. The speeches and workshops addressed a varied assortment of topics, ranging from headline news to personal deportment and interpersonal relationships.

Topics of the workshops included: “Election 2008: Empowerment through Engagement”; “Ongoing Critical Issues in the Muslim World” (Lebanon, Palestine, Afghanistan and Iraq); “Making a Difference – Health, Family and Society”, and “Living as Ambassadors of Islam”.

Dr. Aslam Abdullah, the editor in chief of The Muslim Observer, and head of the Islamic Society of Nevada; Imam Ali Siddiqui of the California Muslim Institute, active in building bridges with the non Muslim community through education about Islam; Councg the honored speakers.

A varied bazaar was sponsored by the conference. Bazaar booth-holders included CAIR MSA, Guidance Financial Group, (offering home financing claiming Sharia compliance); Bridges TV; Islamic Relief; and the Hidaya Foundation charitable group.

ISNA has counseling services on many issues including aging, youth, and domestic violence. ISNA also provides matrimonial and library services and halal certification.

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