American Muslim Conference To Address Global Conflicts

As the world grapples with the ongoing crisis and devastation in the Middle East that has claimed over 38,000 lives, Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA is set to host its historic 74th Jalsa Salana (Annual Convention) in Richmond, Virginia, from June 28th to 30th at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. This landmark event, marking the first time America’s longest-running Muslim conference convenes in Richmond, will serve as a powerful platform for promoting peacebuilding strategies and fostering interfaith dialogue in a world desperately seeking solutions.

The Jalsa Salana, with its theme of “Love for All, Hatred for None,” has a rich tradition of uniting people of all faiths for spiritual enrichment and fostering understanding.  This year’s gathering takes on even greater significance in light of the ongoing conflict in Israel and Palestine. As the founder of the “Voices for Peace” initiative, Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA will leverage the Jalsa Salana to address critical issues surrounding this conflict and explore solutions to achieve an immediate ceasefire, a release of all hostages, and a path to establish peace in the region. 

“The world is on fire. As Muslims, we are grief-stricken by the events of October 7 in Israel and the subsequent catastrophic loss of tens of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza. The raging conflict, which seemingly sees no end in sight, demands a unified call for immediate action,” said Amjad Mahmood Khan, National Secretary of Public Affairs for Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA.  “The Jalsa Salana provides a unique platform to bring together government officials, diplomats, diverse leaders, scholars, and community members to engage in a public dialogue and explore practical strategies for achieving lasting peace and reconciliation. What unites us is always stronger than what divides us.”

The Jalsa Salana is more than mere talk; it’s also about action. This year’s event introduces Richmond to the “Jalsa Cares” initiative, a dedicated program offering community service projects and charitable initiatives that address local needs in Richmond.  Building bridges and giving back to the city reflects Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA’s commitment to fostering positive social change alongside interfaith dialogue.

About the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community:

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is a dynamic, reformist and fast-growing international movement within Islam. Founded in 1889, the Community spans 213 countries with tens of millions of members. Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA, established in 1920, is the oldest American-Muslim organization.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is the only Islamic organization to believe that the long- awaited messiah has come in the person of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (1835-1908) of Qadian, India. Ahmad claimed to be the metaphorical second coming of Jesus of Nazareth and the divine guide, whose advent was foretold by the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad. The Community believes that God sent Ahmad, like Jesus, to end religious wars, condemn bloodshed and reinstitute morality, justice and peace. Ahmad’s advent has brought about an unprecedented era of Islamic revival and moderation. He divested Muslims of fanatical beliefs and practices by vigorously championing Islam’s true and essential teachings.

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