The Oklahoma chapter of Council on American-Islamic Relations will host its 5th annual Muslim Youth Leadership Symposium at the University of Central Oklahoma.
CAIR-Oklahoma Executive Director Adam Soltani said the MYLS program, from Friday through Sunday, focuses on developing today’s young leaders to be social and community activists with the goal of working towards a better Oklahoma.
Soltani said the weekend symposium consists of a networking dinner, a full day of workshops and team-building exercises and a talent show. It will conclude with a mock legislative debate led by State Rep. Emily Virgin in the House Chambers of the state Capitol.
“This is the only leadership program of its kind in the Heartland which combines an American Muslim identity with our nation’s rich civil rights tradition,” Soltani said. “Our goal is to inspire future leaders to work together to make Oklahoma a better place for individuals from all walks of life.”
In its 5th year, the event aims to empower Oklahoma Muslim youth to reclaim the image of Islam in the mainstream through positive social activism, Soltani said.
This year’s symposium includes workshops that promoted social justice, coalition building, grassroots organizing, public speaking and debating legislation. Featured speakers will include former Oklahoma State Rep. Shane Jett, Pastor Chris Moore of Mayflower Congregational UCC, Seana Wilkerson of Tulsa-based Xposure, Inc. and Edmond musician Ali Soltani.
For more information, visit www.cairoklahoma.com.