“It's an open forum for people to voice their concerns and ask questions. We're trying to have understanding, that's the main thing. We're trying to create awareness.”
Source/Credit: The Beacon Herald
By Laura Cudworth | January 20, 2015
Statford Public Library hosts open house about Islam to help create awareness
A Holy Quran exhibition and open house will take place on Saturday at the Stratford Public Library.
The event was organized by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association in reaction to recent terrorist attacks, such as the one on Parliament Hill and the one on Charlie Hebdo magazine in Paris.
“It's an open forum for people to voice their concerns and ask questions,” said Imam Umar Akbar. “We're trying to have understanding, that's the main thing. We're trying to create awareness.”
Some of the questions organizers will answer include what the Quran teaches about blasphemy and freedom of speech, and whether it endorses violence in reaction to mockery or sacrilege. Anyone who comes to the forum is encouraged to ask their own questions as well.
Extremists like ISIS and al-Qaida have taken up a lot of air time. For some, the only exposure they might get to Islam is through the media, Akbar said. He is hopeful discussions and open forums will help residents distinguish between Islam and extremism.
“We believe we all have to stand together and understand each other in these tough times. We have to strengthen our bonds, not create divisions,” Akbar said.
Some Muslims have experienced a backlash in reaction to terror attacks by extremists. Akbar acknowledged some members of his mosque have experienced that but, for the most part, Canada is a safe place to practice any religion.
“Canadians are supportive and understanding. It is great to be in Canada. The large majority realizes (extremists) do not represent Islam.”
The open house will be held in 33 different communities across the country.
“Every community is important, every town is important. We try to visit everyone we can and have healthy discussions,” Akbar said.
The event runs from noon until 4 p.m.
laura.cudworth@sunmedia.ca
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