Marifa 2020: Self-Discovery and Imagination (Summary Report)

Shi'i students today find themselves dealing with a myriad of challenges. Between the struggles of navigating faith in America, balancing several identities, and being a minority within the Muslim community, Shi'i students need a meaningful forum to engage with these issues. Ma’rifa 2020: Self-Discovery and Imagination was a national conference organized by Shi’i students for Shi’i students to provide such a forum to explore Shi’a identity, spirituality, activism, and community. Ma’rifa 2020 was held at Harvard University on February 28th and 29th, 2020. It was attended by more than 270 university students and invited scholars, academics, and community leaders over a two day period filled with engaging panels, workshops, artistic performances, and more. This report offers a condensed summary of the conference, including its objectives, panels, audience feedback, and future steps. The Project on Shi'ism and Global Affairs at WCFIA was one of the co-sponsors for the conference.

Last updated on 08/13/2020