Revamped Dec. 2023

Open spaces is a group discussion space where youth circle around adult facilitators to learn, share, and deeply reflect on a number of pressing and interesting youth-centered issues. A favorite for many of the campers and counselors, this space aims to:

• Empower campers to articulate their thoughts and express their opinions about contemporary issues in a respective and inclusive environment.
• Provide a space for campers to shape their perspectives on contemporary issues in alignment with Islamic principles using guidance from the Quran and Sunnah of the Prophet peace be upon him.

Open spaces should be 90 minutes minimum and be conducted twice during the week. It is conducted as follows:

• Icebreaker: moderator reads out the icebreaker and campers participate in the activity/question.
• Big question: Discuss the main question together. Have the campers jot down their thoughts for a few minutes alone before reading out to the group and sharing.
• Reflect: Dig deeper into some questions and get the group to reflect.
• Takeaway: Counselor closes with the takeaway point.

Some important details to note:

• This is not a Fiqh session and facilitators should not give answers to Fiqh questions. However, it should be emphasized that our goal is to help youth engage with hot topics and issues in a manner reflective of a stance aligned with the Qur’an and Sunnah. Tradition should guide our thoughts and opinions on contemporary issues, and facilitators should respond as such.
• Facilitators are not there dominate the conversation. This is an opportunity for youth to ask, discuss, and reflect deeply with facilitator guidance.
• Whatever is said in the circle stays in the circle.
• Youth should not disclose sensitive information about themselves. If an example must be shared, use the third person.
• As we are striving to create a safe space, all participants must be respectful of one another. This includes no judgement, no laughing, no interrupting, etc.

Facilitator Guides on Approved Topics

Counselors should review the guides and counselor resources attached prior to camp. Counselor resources are required for counselors to cover before they facilitate the circle. This ensures that facilitators are going into conversations prepared, and this research phase is crucial to ensure the success and conduciveness of open spaces.

Family Relations

Gender Relations