Strengthening Our Democracy: Muslim Civic Coalition Joins Illinois Leaders at Forefront Event
On May 11, 2026, the Muslim Civic Coalition proudly attended the “Strengthening Our Democracy” luncheon hosted by Forefront at the historic Chicago Cultural Center. The event brought together nonprofit, philanthropy, public, and private sector leaders from across Illinois and the nation to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month while engaging in critical conversations about the future of our democracy.
The program featured a powerful keynote address by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, followed by an insightful panel discussion. Panelists shared strategies for preserving vital work while building stronger cross-sector collaboration, with a strong focus on what is at stake in our democracy today and what power-building looks like to protect and advance it.
Panelists included:
Diane Yentel, President & CEO, National Council of Nonprofits
Lawrence Benito, Executive Director, Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR)
Kayce Ataiyero, Chief External Affairs Officer, Joyce Foundation
Amanda Hwu, Executive Director, Illinois Community Power Fund
Venu Gupta, Executive Director, Chicago Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights
Following the panel, attendees participated in dynamic roundtable discussions on the issues that matter most to their communities.
The Muslim Civic Coalition extends our sincere thanks to Forefront for hosting this impactful gathering. We left inspired and more committed to civic engagement, coalition-building, and power-building efforts that defend democracy and uplift all communities.
We remain dedicated to working alongside our partners to create a more just, equitable, and resilient Illinois for everyone.