Islam Dialogue, Devotion, and Development

Abstract

ISNA’s Forty-first Annual Convention, held in Chicago (September 4-6,
2004), offered about 100 sessions and was cohosted by the Council of
Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago (CIOGC). Over 400 Chicago
Muslim volunteer organizations offered their support, resources, and talents
under CIOGC’s leadership. The Friday night Interfaith Unity Banquet
was dedicated to interfaith dialogue. The invitation-only event seeks to
energize attendees, including politicians running for office in the Chicago
area, to continue their efforts and to recognize those who are trying to build
bridges between different faith communities. The Rev. Stanley L. Davis, Jr.,
was given a plaque for his continuing work in interfaith relations plus his
dedication to peace and justice.
The Fifth Annual Community Service Recognition Luncheon, hosted by
the ISNA Development Foundation, was addressed by Cherif Bassiouni, a
respected attorney and professor at DePaul University, who is also president
of the International Human Rights Law Institute. He declared: “It makes me
angry when Muslims apologize for Islam. I am proud to be a Muslim.”
For the first time, a female Muslim activist, Sharifa Alkhateeb, received
the Mahboob Khan Community Service Award, which recognizes outstanding
service to the Muslim community in North America. Alkhateeb, recognized
for her work in various causes, especially those concerning women,
could not attend. Her husband Mejdi accepted the award on her behalf, while
her sister read her acceptance speech. Former ISNA president Muzammil
Siddiqui also received the award ...