Beginning Friday June 28, the Oklahoma chapter of Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-OK) will host its 5th annual Muslim Youth Leadership Symposium (MYLS) at the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond. The MYLS program, which continues through June 30, will focus on developing today’s young leaders to be social and community activists with the goal of working towards a better Oklahoma.

The weekend symposium will consist of a networking dinner, a full day of workshops and team-building exercises, a talent show, and will conclude with a mock legislative debate in the House Chambers of the Oklahoma State Capitol building led by Representative Emily Virgin.

“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,” said CAIR-Oklahoma Executive Director Adam Soltani. “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 of operation, MYLS aims to empower Oklahoma Muslim youth to reclaim the image
of Islam in the mainstream through positive social activism. This year’s symposium included workshops that promoted social justice, coalition building, grassroots organizing, public speaking, and debating legislation. Featured speakers at this year’s event include former Oklahoma State Representative Shane Jett, Reverend Chris Moore of Mayflower Congregational UCC, Seana Wilkerson of Tulsa-based Xposure, Inc., and Edmond musician Ali Soltani.

The 50 MYLS participants have been selected through an application process from across the state of Oklahoma to participate in this year’s program.

CAIR-Oklahoma is a chapter of America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialog, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.

CAIR Oklahoma’s MYLS program will take place June 28 – 30 at the University of Central Oklahoma.