COLUMBUS – In hopes of correcting stereotypes and concerns born of unfamiliarity with their religious beliefs, the operators of an Islamic cultural center on the West Side of Columbus are inviting the public, and leaders of other churches, to “Meet a Muslim” Saturday.
“Meet a Muslim Event”: (Sat., April, 30, 10:00 a.m. to noon) Abubakar Assidiq Islamic Center, 591 Industrial Mile Rd., Columbus, Ohio 43228. Traditional ethnic snacks and refreshment provided and Muslim cultural materials will be exhibited.
“We believe events like these are not only timely and will help us reclaim our narratives from extremists but the idea itself it rooted in our constitutions,” center director Horsed Nooh said.
Amid what Nooh calls “appalling world suffering and destruction” caused by the self-styled Islamic State organization, known as ISIS or ISIL, he wants Muslims to “reclaim our beautiful faith and present the true image of Islam.”
Noh says he hopes the event build bridges between religious organizations and break barriers and stereotypes about the Muslim community.
The center has invited religious leaders, government representatives, civil society organizations and academic communities, Nooh said.