Thinking anew ...

Adapted from my little spiel from a recent conference. Pardon random
references to "hope" and "change" ... too much political chatter.

For context, it was at the end of a career conference that I've been
helping some of my MLSA/NMLSA colleagues with. Its the second year
we've put it together, and hope that it will create some momentum.

"Why is a program like this so important?

Someone asked me earlier today, where did you find these speakers [We
had some phenomenal speakers; ordinary everyday people doing
extraordinary things] - they're great!

Well, every single speaker and panelist was contacted through our
personal network. It just goes to show that we have an amazing
community of Muslim lawyers and law students, which we need to support
and that are very willing to support us.

I think its safe to say that the theme from today is – its not just
WHAT you know – but WHO you know. And with a growing number of Muslim
lawyers and law students – who can help you more than your community?

Hence the purpose of this conference, and in a broader sense – the
purpose behind having a National Muslim Law Student Association. Our
greatest asset is our community, and we need to take advantage of all
the advice, guidance and support that we have here.

SO, as when you leave conference center today, we hope that you take
two things with you - first, big hopes - because of someone you met,
someone you heard speak, a positive job prospect, inspiration to
pursue a particular field of law, or even just if you've bought into
this vision that we have of a supportive community of Muslim law
students.

And second - a desire to change the landscape of our legal environment
... make a change by putting Muslim law students on your
administration's radar - to encourage active recruitment of Muslim
students, make a change by helping your MLSA, or NMLSA for that
matter, help other Muslim students and put forth programs on legal
issues in our community...

One of our excellent panelists said it best (in the context of her
work on the hill) – it makes a difference having a Muslim in the room
when policy decisions are being made. And more often than not the
Muslims are not there.

I'll take it one step further – it makes a difference having a Muslim
in the big firm, or at least having a conference like this to educate
a firm about this growing community.

It makes a difference having Muslim law students in the deans office,
talking about admissions policy and pushing for greater diversity.

It makes a difference having a Muslim at the table in a community
organization – and putting the needs of our community into the mix.

We can make that difference, and by being here today – you have just
taken that step."

Praying for the momentum ... inshaAllah