A spirit of unity and purpose filled Shirazi Restaurant in Fresh Meadows, Queens on Friday, May 2nd, 2025, as dozens of imams, community leaders, and organizers gathered for a special Imams and Leadership Meeting marking the opening of ICNACON 2025, the 50th Annual ICNA-MAS Convention.
Hosted by the Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) and the Muslim American Society (MAS), the private dinner served as a meaningful kickoff to one of the largest Muslim conventions in North America. Attendees, including key figures from mosques, relief organizations, and youth groups, came together to honor half a century of collaboration, education, and grassroots leadership in Muslim American communities.
The evening featured fellowship, networking, and forward-looking discussion, with an emphasis on unity, inter-organizational cooperation, and strengthening community ties. While the national convention spans an array of lectures, panels, and family programming, this leadership gathering aimed to focus specifically on those who shepherd their communities daily—offering them a space for shared reflection and strategic alignment before the broader public sessions begin.
The event was held at Shirazi Restaurant, located at 183-10 Horace Harding Expressway, where guests were welcomed with a warm atmosphere and a full dinner service. Organizers emphasized the value of creating such intimate spaces to foster direct conversations between those at the helm of community guidance and advocacy. The dinner provided an opportunity to build stronger personal and organizational relationships—especially important in an era where faith leaders are increasingly called upon to address a wide range of social challenges.
Helping Hand for Relief and Development was a primary sponsor of the evening, joined by other notable partners such as WhyIslam, ILF, ICNA Council for Social Justice, ICNA Sisters, Embrace, ICNA Relief, Young Muslim Brothers, and Young Muslim Sisters. These organizations, each deeply involved in education, justice advocacy, outreach, and service, collectively reflected the breadth and depth of ICNA’s mission.
Coordinators Dr. Abdul Jabber and Tariqur Rahman ensured smooth execution of the evening, encouraging attendees to engage with one another and prepare for the busy days ahead at the convention. Their roles in outreach and logistics helped create a space that was as welcoming as it was purposeful.
This year’s ICNA-MAS Convention represents a major milestone—50 years of dedicated service and commitment to fostering Islamic values, social justice, and civic engagement. The leadership dinner not only celebrated this legacy but also reaffirmed a shared vision for the future.
As the national convention continues through the weekend, the themes of unity, community development, and faith-centered leadership remain central. With thousands expected to attend sessions covering everything from social issues to spiritual growth, the Imams and Leadership Meeting served as a powerful reminder of the foundation upon which ICNA stands: sincere collaboration among those who lead with faith and serve with heart.
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