September 1, 2011

MPAC Government Summit delegates in the White House

MPAC today released a first-of-its-kind declaration written by the delegates of this summer’s 5th Annual Young Leaders Government Summit that affirms their shared commitment to their faith, communities and nation. The group of delegates, comprised of about 30 undergraduate and graduate students, drafted and presented their declaration in front of White House officials in late July.

SEE: “Our Narrative, Our Civic Responsibilities: A Declaration by Young Muslim-American Leaders”

The declaration in part reads:

“For too long, the Muslim American experience has been dictated by those voices, foreign and domestic, who claim to represent us and those who seek to marginalize us out of the American mosaic. As we stand here today, approaching the 10th Anniversary of one of the greatest challenges our country has ever faced, we find it necessary to define our own narrative.”

The Summit delegates wrote the declaration as a commitment to redouble their civic engagement efforts and reclaim their voices and identify. Many of the White House officials present said they were impressed by the eloquence and patriotism of the young Muslim Americans and with their dedication to the betterment of our country.

“With the 10th Anniversary of 9/11 approaching, it is important to highlight that young Muslim Americans across the nation are among America’s brightest and most talented,” said Salam Al-Marayati, MPAC President. “They will be at the forefront of organizing memorial services, community service events and interfaith activities.”

Recently, MPAC also released its "9/11 Community Action Kit," to ensure that members of the Muslim American community have the tools to engage in the conversation and events around the 10th anniversary of 9/11.

MPAC’s Young Leaders Government Summit provides top undergraduate and graduate students with an insider look at the inner workings of the nation's capitol while simultaneously providing government officials and congressional leaders the opportunity to learn what is on the minds of young Muslim Americans. Over the course of six days, delegates got a rare opportunity to meet with senior officials in federal agencies, members of Congress, directors of think tanks and other prominent individuals in the nonprofit sector to discuss current policy issues while also exploring career opportunities.