Day 2: Our Convention at Full Thrust with Sessions for All Ages

Day two of our convention was bustling with activity, from the hall of Juma'ah prayer to the vibrant rooms of our school and youth programs, our CAT program, and the main stage. We heard from experts in various fields who left our audiences struck with the information they provided and the passion with which they spoke.

Our day began with Dr. Hatem Bazian, Dr. Osama Abuirshaid, and Josh Ruebner discussing the flawed narratives surrounding October 7th present in American media and the halls of Congress, as they situated the genocide within Israel’s oppressive history.

Mental health professionals dissected the challenges Palestinians with mental and physical disabilities must cope with under occupation, and now during a genocide, also reminding Palestinians in the diaspora to be mindful of what they post about their daily lives on social media.

The evening ended with an emotionally riveting session featuring panelists who have either lived through the genocide or volunteered on the ground in Gaza as well. The audience was left in tears as legendary Palestinian journalist Wael Al-Dahdoh, Ahmed Kouta, Ashraf Mashharawi, Dr. Jomana Al-Hinti, and Baraa Alaroos shared their harrowing stories of loss, starvation, grief, and hope.

Our convention will conclude tomorrow, Saturday, November 30th, at the Tinley Park Convention Center with discussions about the aftermath of U.S. elections and an in-depth analysis of the ongoing genocide. The final day will end with the “Night of Sumud,” where we will have Palestinian talents offer special performances of art from Gaza and the rest of Palestine that exemplify the resilience of the Palestinian people.