Finding Strength in Our Growing Community

By Zahirah Lynn Eppard

Over the Memorial Day weekend, Muslims from up and down the East Coast of the U.S. descended on Baltimore, Maryland, for the 49th Annual ICNA-MAS Convention. Boasted by the event’s organizers as one of the largest gatherings of Muslims in North America, the convention featured 100 speakers, 160 sessions, 500+ vendors, and many more tangible and intangible opportunities for growth. While those differed from person to person, few left the area without marveling at the incredible strength that came to our hearts from being amidst a sea of diverse Muslims – young and old, from various ethnic and racial groups, from all walks of life, from different parts of the country – the feeling of strength in numbers right here in America.

New Generation Benefits from Deep-Seated Latin Roots

By Wendy Díaz

The inclusion of the Latino Muslim presence with the Reunión de la ComUnidad Latina (or Latino CommUnity Reunion) in the lineup at the recent ICNA-MAS Convention highlights the event's commitment to celebrating the rich diversity within the Muslim community and reinforces the importance of faith, resilience, and community solidarity in the face of adversity. The convention traditionally features parallel language sessions to serve and address our growing diversity. Community activist and writer Wendy Díaz reflects on the panel of six Latino Muslim advocates who serve the community in various capacities. The session provided an opportunity for the audience to engage with these educators, professionals, activists, influencers, writers, community organizers, and more.

Muslim Communities Provide a Wealth of Resources

By Miriam Mohamed

In every vibrant and thriving Muslim community, there exists a web of resources and support systems designed to cater to the diverse needs of families. From religious obligations to social interactions, education, and cultural preservation, these resources play a pivotal role in nurturing the well-being and cohesion of the community. Writer Miriam Mohamed has compiled a long list of the resources made available to increase knowledge, build skills, meet a wide variety of individual and family needs, and strengthen the bonds between us.

Yes, Sound Vision Is STILL Producing Adam's World Videos!

By Zahirah Lynn Eppard

At the recent ICNA Convention in Baltimore, Maryland, there was much evidence that Muslim parents are consistently looking for top-quality resources for themselves and their children. Many booths featured children’s books, Islamic home decor, Islamic schools and curricula designed for homeschooling, programming for young children and young adults, community centers in all parts of the U.S. and Canada, and more. We know that wholesome content focused on Islamic values is invaluable. That is where the Sound Vision Foundation started more than 30 years ago with its legendary Adam’s World puppets. And we are still working hard to fill those needs!

Book Review: Where Are You Really From?

By Sumayya Khan

Layaan is being bullied in school because she looks “foreign.” Canadian author Samira Hamana's new book Where Are You Really From? weaves a story to increase sensitivity and teach children that diversity is a beautiful part of the world we live in. Reviewer Sumayya Khan applauds the effort to help build empathy and understanding. Check out the details.

Online Resources

ICNA Convention – Even though the event is over, there are many resources that can be useful related to organization, speakers, sponsors, and future planning.

Sound Vision Canada – Take advantage of upcoming training opportunities related to education, parenting, not-for-profit organizing, social justice and advocacy, and more.

Muslim Network TV – Be sure to tap into the vast information and resources offered by the only24/7 Muslim television network in North America.

Justice For All – Justice For All is Sound Vision’s social justice and advocacy arm. Learn more about many global projects that are worthy of our attention and support.

Adam's World Video: Adam and Aneesah's Lemonade Stand

Adam, Aneesah, Mama, and Dad hold a family “shura” meeting to decide where to give their zakat money. Adam and Aneesah set out to raise their own money so they can donate, too. The Arabic letter “Sheen” for Shura and the English letter “C” for consultation are featured. A beautiful nasheed by Dawud Wharnsby called Purify Your Pennies complements the lesson. (8:41)

The Sound Vision Foundation has been a trusted source of Islamic knowledge for more than 30 years. Our work with the world-renowned puppets Adam and Aneesah pioneered creative programming for Muslim children, encouraging them to learn about and love their religion. We continue to bring sound content and engaging programs that stimulate minds, touch hearts, and strive to fulfill our mission of raising better Muslims, better neighbors, and better citizens. This latest effort is designed to support and empower Muslim parents to do the same.