From Acceptance to Contribution: The Role of ICNA in the Integration of Transnational Immigrants in Canada

Abstract

Ethnic and religious organizations are usually criticized for being disconnected from the mainstream. The present research offers a counter-narrative through empirical evidence of the contribution made by Canadian Muslim organization. A case study was employed to explore the role of the Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) in Muslim immigrants' integration into Canadian society. Data were obtained through interviews with current and previous presidents and the management of these organizations. Other forms of data were collected from the official websites of ICNA, its brochures and annual reports. Findings revealed that ICNA has successfully facilitated new transnational Muslims and Canadian community at large through its volunteering and holistic services to meet the needs and resultantly to build inter and intragroup ties and integration into Canadian society. Findings guide towards using community organizations as a tool to promote socio-cultural, economic and political integration for a well-connected and harmonious society.