Our Methodology
How We Work
1. Ask for Community Input
MANA collects information on a national level through two sources— research institutions like ISPU, FYI, etc,and through qualitative methods from MANA listening sessions across America
2. Promote Findings / Develop Solutions
After collecting the data, MANA will inform the community what the top challenges are for African-American communities according to the data.
3. Network to Implement and Solve
With MANA's networking platform the community will be mobilized and empowered to connect challenges with resources.
4. Assess / Adjust
The annual conference is a means to motivate and inspire the community and to assess the status of local and nation wide efforts. Adjustments will be made, if needed, to remain focused solutions and goals.
5. Announce Results
Any victories (small or large) will be announced to keep a sense of movement, purpose, and transparency.
Step 1: Community Input
In this first step, MANA collects information on a national level through quantitative and qualitative methods such as listening sessions, leadership convenings, and other methods. We often partner with established research institutions like ISPU, FYI, and the Pew Research Center. Dr. Ihsan Bagby, a founding MANA board member and expert in researching American Muslims, is currently surveying community leaders and Imams on the challenges facing African-American Muslims. This step is scheduled to be completed by Ramadan 2023.
Step 2: Promote Findings / Develop Solutions
MANA will host an online national town hall meeting to discuss the findings from step 1. In addition, MANA will solicit feedback from attendees on what’s working and what could be better in the African American Muslim Community. Registration for the national town hall opens soon