CHICAGO, April 16, 2006 (IslamOnline.net) – Muslim scholars and students came together on Saturday, April 15, for the 10 Annual ISNA Islam in America Conference, discussing research papers aimed at developing better understanding of Muslims in America.

"I am grateful that I left this conference with critical information based on thorough empirical research and experience needed to empower the youth population with effective tools," Shazia Siddiqui, founder of one of the fastest growing programs in the country, the Muslim Interscholastic Tournament (MIST), told IslamOnline.net.

She believes the shared experience of the conference will help him "assess and provide for the needs of overlooked populations, promote interfaith and intra-faith dialogue, and learn how to develop sincere and thoughtful responses on where we stand on global issues in order to diffuse hate and fear of Muslims in America."

Established and budding scholars took to the stage to present in four panel sessions on topics reflective of the diverse community of Muslims in North America.

A total of 13 papers were presented with topics aimed to focus on interfaith initiatives in America, leadership development, understanding moderate and extremist approaches in Islam, the experience of Islam in American prisons, conflict resolution/peace building in Muslim communities, social service models in America, and current youth trends.

The Islam in America conference was launched in 1997, but it has taken on much greater relevance in post-911 America.

ISNA is an association of Muslim organizations and individuals providing a common platform for presenting Islam, supporting Muslim communities, developing educational, social and outreach programs, and fostering good relations with other religious communities, civic and service organizations

The Islam in America conference is highly specialized in its focus and attracts scholars and students alike to tackle very challenging topics, organizers said.

Addressing the complex issue of Maqasid Al-Shari`ah, scholar Zainab Alwani made a strong case for the development of an Islamic methodology within the American context as well as the need to recognize a common legal authority.

Omar H. Altalib talked about interfaith initiatives in America with a special focus on lessons from the Midwest while Muhammad Shaifiq presented some models of interfaith work.

Taking the floor, Khadija Kaja addressed the challenging issue of breaking stereotyping to build understanding.

Prominent Muslim scholar Iqbal Unus, who has attended this conference regularly, talked about strategic planning in improving governance and accountability in Muslim community organizations.

He told IOL the aim of the Islam in America conferences is to "group the trends and issues in terms of Muslim presence in America in terms of two broad issues: community development and relations with other faiths."