"A lot of what we stand for was misconstrued. They thought we would be promoting jihad, violent teachings, so we just wanted to open up the house; this is what we're going to talk about. We're trying to promote Muslims for loyalty, Muslims for peace and loyalty to one's nation."
Source/Credit: Your News Now (YNN) Austin
By Karina Kling | August 25, 2013
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community opened their doors on Saturday in hopes of opening the minds of others who might not understand wh4at members of this mosque believe.
When the group's motives for participating in a July 4th parade were questioned this year, instead of getting angry they decided to start a conversation.
"A lot of what we stand for was misconstrued,” said Usama Malik. “They thought we would be promoting jihad, violent teachings, so we just wanted to open up the house; this is what we're going to talk about. We're trying to promote Muslims for loyalty, Muslims for peace and loyalty to one's nation."
Members of the mosque tried to march in the annual Round Rock Sertoma Club's Independence Day parade this year, but after controversy and criticism surrounded their application to march, parade organizer Will Williams denied their participation citing 'safety reasons.'
Williams says the situation was unfortunate, but what's happened since has been a positive turnaround.
"If it hadn't happened, we would have never developed this relationship,” Williams said.
"In some ways I'm glad this happened you know, because I think it shined a light on a segment of our community that we need to invite and ask them to be part of the process," said Carlos Salinas, a Round Rock councilman.
That process involves communication and getting out what members of the mosque say is their mission to promote peace.
"We're just like everybody else here, we're just trying to do our part for the community," Malik said.
As for participating in next year's parade, Williams said he's hopeful the Muslim group getting their message out to the rest of the community might mean a more welcome reception to them marching side-by-side.
"Everyone has to follow the rules, as long as all rules followed, I see no problem," Williams said.
Members of the mosque say they might hold another open-house event later in the year, but nothing has been set yet.
Read original post here: USA: Muslims community promotes understanding with open house in Round Rock
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