ICNACON2024 Attracts over 30,000 attendees from diverse backgrounds

The recent convention hosted by the Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) proved to be a resounding success, attracting over 30,000 attendees from diverse backgrounds. The event, held with the aim of fostering unity and community building, featured a rich program encompassing a wide array of speakers, workshops, and activities.

Event Highlights:

The convention covered a broad spectrum of topics, including Islamic principles, family dynamics, youth development, social justice, and interfaith relations. Attendees had the unique opportunity to engage with scholars, activists, and leaders who are experts in these areas, facilitating meaningful discussions and fostering mutual understanding.

Economic Impact:

Beyond its intellectual and communal significance, the convention also made a tangible impact on the local economy of Baltimore. The influx of visitors led to increased hotel bookings, restaurant patronage, and overall spending in the city. This surge in tourism benefited local businesses, with higher occupancy rates in hotels and increased revenue for restaurants, cafes, and eateries.

Theme and Solidarity:

The convention’s theme of unshakable faith and trusting the will of Allah resonated deeply with attendees, particularly in light of global events such as the ongoing tragedy in Gaza. ICNA stands in solidarity with those advocating for justice, including students protesting for a ceasefire in Gaza, reflecting our organization’s commitment to social justice and humanitarian causes.

Media Engagement:

A highlight of the convention was the Media Panel organized by our media team, featuring esteemed Muslim reporters from CBS, NBC, and HuffPost. The panel, which attracted over 100 attendees, delved into the crucial topic of Muslims and the media, fostering dialogue on collaboration and media representation. Additionally, the launch of the Media Scholarship initiative, valued at $1,000 per student, underscores our commitment to nurturing future talent in the media industry.

Matrimonial Event and Quran Competition:

In addition to the enriching program, ICNA hosted a Matrimonial Event aimed at facilitating connections within the community, providing a platform for individuals to meet and network in a halal and supportive environment. Furthermore, a Quran Competition was held, showcasing the talents and dedication of participants in memorizing and reciting the Quran, fostering a love for the Holy Book and Islamic learning.

Young Muslims (YM) Conference:

In conjunction with the convention, ICNA also hosted the Young Muslims (YM) Conference, an annual gathering dedicated to the youth. This conference, organized for the youth by the youth, brought young Muslims together under one roof to enlighten their minds with knowledge regarding their faith while fostering an environment of brotherhood and sisterhood.

Press Release and Coverage:

The press release published on the wire, reached an estimated 41 million people, highlighting the significance of our presence at the convention. Furthermore, we secured media coverage in outlets such as ABC, CBS, and multiple Pakistani media outlets. 

In conclusion, our participation in the convention proved to be both enriching and impactful, reaffirming our dedication to fostering collaboration, nurturing talent, and amplifying important conversations within the media industry. As we reflect on our experiences and achievements, let us continue to leverage these insights and opportunities to propel our organization forward.