IONA, ICNA & MAS Explore Approaches To Islamic Activism
Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuh,
On June 26 th , 2004 the Islamic Organization of North America (IONA) hosted its first annual convention at the Islamic Association of Greater Detroit. The convention featured Mustapha Elturk (Ameer of the Islamic Organization of North America) along with Dr. Talat Sultan (Ameer of the Islamic Circle of North America) and Dr. Souheil Ghannouchi (Former President of the Muslim American Society). The theme of the convention, “Is Islamic Activism a thing of the past?” focused on the current and future prospects for Islamic activism in North America.
The leaders of the three leading Islamic activist organizations in the country outlined their respective ideologies and methodologies for Islamic work in North America. A lively and respectful question and answer session provided greater insight into the similarities and differences between the three organizations. All speakers emphasized the need to develop a culture of Islamic activism in the Muslim community – a culture steeped in righteousness and embedded with humble confidence in the relevance of Islam to the entire world.
The leadership recognized the valuable and complimentary role each organization has in promoting Islamic activism in North America, and stressed that greater cooperation was needed. While discussing differences, the speakers emphasized the overwhelming unity of purpose and dismissed any notion that the organizations divided the Muslim community in North America. Rather, it was agreed that while the various Islamic organizations were pursuing different strategies, these efforts were mutually reinforcing.
May Allah (SWT) bless the Muslims in North America with a strong culture of Islamic activism, and may He guide the leadership of this ummah to lead Muslims to success in this world and the Hereafter, and protection from the Hellfire.
IONA’s mission is to transform its members and help transform the surrounding communities to righteous, God-fearing people, who collectively strive for the highest moral standard and constantly seek forgiveness from our Creator to earn His pleasure. We seek His compassion and mercy in this life and in the hereafter. We rejuvenate our soul through internal struggle and spiritual exercise in worship of our creator God. The strength of our belief in God gives us the courage to establish good and forbid evil, thus promoting a system of justice for all mankind.