Past Events
HoCo Fundraiser
In our pursuit of Understanding Priorities as a Muslim Community, it's crucial that we draw connections between our fundraiser and the pressing global and local events of our time.
From the ongoing situation in Gaza that calls for our support and solidarity with our Muslim brothers and sisters, Islamophobia, youth identity, unemployment and many other needs of the youth, to the evolving discussions surrounding LGBTQ promotions in schools, suicide ideation and mental health challenges all that emphasize the need for active engagement and understanding.
The Islamic History Museum
The Islamic Museum is closed due to renovations, so instead we will be visiting the Museum of Native Americans in Washington DC.
Students learned basic definition of ummah in Islam, Heritage of American Muslims, Muslim Natives in America, Cornerstones to preserve one's identity
Also had activities like visits and tours to the Native American Islamic Heritage Museum in Washington, D.C. and Islamic Center (time permitting), Reflections on the lives of Native Americans and parallels in today's time across the world
Palestine Advocacy Day
Nineteen of our ILIA youth , along with about 550 people from across the country gathered for the American Muslims for Palestine (AMP) Advocacy Day event. Youth underwent two days of training, which led amounted to the Advocacy day, in which participants met with each of the Maryland representatives and Senators or their staff to discuss critical legislation pertaining to Palestine. In these training days they talked about some discriminative potential bills against Palestine such as a bill prohibiting the detention of Palestinian children, the Anti-BDS legislation, and much more. ILIA youth represented thousands of Muslims here in the U.S. and abroad on capital hill, ensuring that Muslim voices are heard by legislators.
Paint Night
Friday night youth gathered for some creativity, conversation, and collaboration. Students followed a step-by-step tutorial to paint “Sunset Raven.” Participants learned some new art techniques, met fellow youth in the area, and proudly made their own artistic masterpieces.
COLLEGE NIGHT: DISCUSSION AND PANEL FOR YOUTH TRANSITIONING TO UNIVERSITY
SATURDAY, MARCH 16— About 20 youth gathered at Maryum Islamic Center in Ellicott City for College Night, an event for high school students and youth to learn more about the college application process and college life. The evening kicked off with remarks from Dr. Mohamed Eltoweissey, Department Head and Professor of Computer and Information Sciences at Virginia Military Institute. Dr. Eltoweissey spoke about tips for success in college and the importance of character and companionship for success both in college and in life, brining unique points to the students from the perspective of a university faculty member. The speech was followed by a panel of four current college students of varying areas of study, who shared their experiences and tips for success in college. Students in attendance had the opportunity to ask about various aspects of college life, including time management, class structure, and work-life balance in college.
For more information of the event as well as to learn about our upcoming events, stay connected with us on instagram and at ellicottcity.islamicleadership.org.
Blanket Making for the Needy
As the winter gets colder, many people are suffering due to lack of resources. ILIA has taken it upon ourselves to take action and help as many as possible. We created Project Blanket Making, to teach students and adults how to make blankets. This event was open to all, as no sewing experience was required. Due to overbooking, we were able to hold multiple sessions and help more people. By teaching the community to make blankets, we are able to give over 25 blankets away to young children in the area. Also, as any ILIA workshop, those who attended the workshop have learned new skills to pass on. We are so honored we were able to help so many and so proud of the amazing blankets our community members made.