First Global Conference on Disability and Islam

Last year’s theme: Towards understanding disability in Islam.
Theme for 2021: To be Announced
What is it About?
The Islamic tradition is clear on the rights of persons with disabilities in society. However, this tradition remains misunderstood and under-studied, resulting in misconceptions about disability within Muslim communities.
The goal of this conference is to advance our understandings of Islam and disability, the needs of Muslims with disabilities within an Islamic context, and the responsibilities of Muslim communities to support individuals with disabilities.
Who Should Attend?
This virtual, multi-disciplinary conference brings together the work of service providers, academics, Islamic scholars, individuals with lived
experience of disability, and disability advocates to explore opportunities and challenges for Muslims with disabilities in both Muslim majority and minority context. All those who are interested in hearing diverse perspectives on issues related to disability & Islam are welcome to attend.
Program Booklet
For last year’s program booklet, which includes the full schedule and speaker bios, please click here: GDIC Program Booklet 2020
GCDI 2020 Livestream
Click here to watch a replay of the 2020 conference
Join the GCDI Global Network
One of the key outcomes of this year’s conference was the launch of DEEN’s Global Network on Disability and Islam, which aims to bring together service providers, academics, researchers, Islamic scholars, individuals with lived experience of disability, and disability advocates. The goal of this network is to continue dialogues initiated at the conference and provide opportunities for global learning and peer-support.
To join the global network, CLICK HERE
Last Year’s Keynote Speakers
Dr. Mohamed Ghaly – Towards Understanding Disability in Islam

Dr. Ingrid Mattson: Next Steps – Obligations and Responsibilities of the Ummah

Conference Outcomes
- The first issue of DEEN’s annual Journal on Disability and Islam. All submitted papers will be considered for publication. Paper selection for the journal will be based upon peer review and conference presentation.
- Launch of DEEN’s Global Network on Disability and Islam that will bring together service providers, academics, researchers, Islamic scholars, individuals with lived experience of disability, and disability advocates. The goal of this network is to continue dialogues initiated at the conference and provide opportunities for global learning and peer-support.
- To join the global network, CLICK HERE
Media
GDIC 2020 Media Coverage:
Global Conference on Disability and Islam to Take Place Virtually – by AboutIslam.net
First Global Conference on Disability and Islam: Interview With Disability Activist Rafia-Haniff Cleofas – by MuslimLink.ca
Disability and Islam – Interview with DEEN CEO Rabia Khedr – by the Pulse on AMI-audio (via Apple Podcasts)
For media inquiries, please contact
Rabia Khedr: (rabia.khedr@deensupportservices.ca | (905) 270-9679
Rafia Haniff-Cleofas: ( rafia.cleofas@deensupportservices.ca | (647) 836-3461)
We are honoured to have the support of the following organizations:

