ING

Join the Islamic Speakers Bureau

ING seeks individuals who can speak in a variety of public venues to diverse audiences, including middle and high schools, universities, faith-based and community organizations, and other venues. We seek to educate about American Muslims and their faith as a means of promoting religious literacy, mutual respect, and understanding.

ING speakers are certified after a rigorous process of professional development, testing, and observation in a live setting by veteran speakers. When presenting, ING speakers adhere to the First Amendment Center guidelines which are outlined in ING and the First Amendment Center. These guidelines emphasize that speakers must adhere to the highest level of academic neutrality and objectivity when teaching about religion.

Why Should I Consider Joining the ING Islamic Speakers Bureau?

At a time when Islamophobia and hate rhetoric against American Muslims has reached unprecedented levels in recent months, it is critical that American Muslims counter and clarify common stereotypes and define themselves rather than having others define them. ING has nearly twenty years of experience in education about religions in multiple venues to diverse audiences. ING provides not only presentation scripts but also guidelines for speaking in a public forum and answers to frequently asked questions.

A community member who previously went through ING’s training emphasizes the importance of attending the training: “I did the training couple of years back and it helped me a lot. I would also recommend it even if you are not planning to become a volunteer. It will still help you in your workplace, in your neighborhood, or any other place in clearing misconceptions, stereotyping etc. I feel like doing a refresher training again.”

One of ING’s current speakers stresses the importance of getting trained through ING to educate others:

“As an ING speaker myself, I speak at middle and high schools and cannot tell you how rewarding it is to supplement existing curriculum through professionally prepared presentations and scripts. Just last week, I spoke at two local high schools: one regular 11th grade and an ESL class. The 30+ students were from Asia and were blown away at how many similarities exist between Muslims, Christians, and Jews. The other class had three Muslim kids who thanked me later on for normalizing Muslims, which made them feel good about themselves. I am now able to engage very professionally with anyone on common misconceptions about Islam and drawing parallels between Abrahamic faiths, which not only helps to build bridges and peace but, best of all, respect for Muslim kids who are part of a class you speak at. All thanks to a well organized training by ING! This is imperative especially during these days when ignorance about Islam and misinformation about Muslims is spewing hatred and fear.”

What is Included in the Training?

* Trainer-led training with interactive activities.
* A speakers kit with presentation materials and FAQs developed by scholars
* Public speaking tips
* Drinks and refreshments

Apply today