By Hina Syed
DALLAS, TX. Saturday December 8th, 2012 – ICNA Dallas Chapter had a spectacular night of fundraising held earlier this month at the Hyatt Regency located in the heart of Dallas. The event was host to over 400 attendees.
The theme of the evening was Defending Religious Freedom with Dignity and Compassion; part of the ongoing campaign spearheaded by the Islamic Circle of North America in an effort to inculcate religious tolerance amongst all. Also presented at the event was the issue of social justice and social reform. ICNA Dallas introduced its “Food Pantry” launched in early 2012, which caters to the less fortunate from any background. One of the other many worthy accomplishments of ICNA Dallas is temporary housing established for those in need to help them get back on their feet. ICNA Dallas also launched many WhyIslam billboards across the metropolis, inviting everyone to learn more about Prophet Mohammed (pbuh) with a message “Muhammad: A Mercy to Mankind.”
ICNA Dallas and its guests were privileged with notable speakers at the event. People who benefited from projects run by ICNA Dallas were invited to speak about their positive experiences. Imam Khalid Griggs, ICNA Shura member and renowned leader and activist from Virginia, eloquently spoke on the need of social reform and for the Muslims to arise to the occasion.
See the video highlighting ICNA Dallas activities:
Imam Yusuf Kavakci, Imam of Islamic Center of North Texas (IANT), was presented with “ICNA Excellence Award” for his long term commitment and dedication for Dallas Muslim Community.
The night was capped off by guest speaker, Dr. John L. Esposito, Director of Georgetown’s Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding (CMCU). He addressed that Muslim communities need to make their case that Islam is a living religion, a religion of truth and simplicity, not one of barbarism as displayed in the media today. He hoped that many youth, also present in large numbers at the fundraiser, would insert themselves into fields most needed by Muslims, such as law and journalism.
