The best way to get to know people of different backgrounds and faiths is to interact, speak with one another, and learn about what you share. A group of Muslim, Christian, and Jewish fourth graders did just that in Chicago, coming together over poetry, arts and crafts, and conversation. Activities included discussion about ways to practice charity and the children's favorite activities, celebrities, sports, and more. According to one event organizer, "We think it's important that kids are ...
New Poll Demonstrates the Importance of Interfaith Contact
A new study by the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) indicates that Americans who interact with Muslims hold more positive views of Muslims. This finding suggests that interfaith contact—the ability to meet and interact with people of different faiths—is essential for breaking down stereotypes and fighting bigotry. Read more (Public Religion Research Institute) ...
How New Friendships Changed a Man’s Mind about Muslims
After the 9/11 attacks, John Dutcher of Omaha, Nebraska decided that he hated Muslims. The problem? He never actually met any. Then, six Muslim refugee families moved into his apartment building and, for the first time, he was in the position to get to know Muslims for himself. According to Dutcher, meeting his new neighbors completely changed his opinion about Muslims. "The Muslims here were all about family and they just loved everyone," Dutcher says. Now, Dutcher takes pride in helping the ...
“To Islam, with Love”
More than 150 adults and children showed up to take part in "To Islam, with Love," an interfaith event in which attendees made Valentine's Day cards for their Muslim friends and neighbors to send the message that Muslims are a welcome part of the community. The handmade cards will be delivered to the Islamic Society of Boston Cultural Center in Roxbury around Valentine's Day. According Lisa Ballew, whose two children took part in the event, "I don't think they're ever too young to teach empathy ...
Rumi’s Secret: Imam Feisal at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine
On Wednesday, January 31, 2017 the Cathedral of St. John the Divine welcomed Imam Feisal and Brad Gooch, the acclaimed New York Times bestselling author of Smash Cut, Flannery, and City Poet, to discuss Gooch's new biography, Rumi's Secret: The Life of the Sufi Poet of Love (Harper, 2017). The evening also included performances by Persian dance master Rana Gorgani; composer/vocalist Amir Alan Vahab; Mehdi Darvishi; and Hedayat Shafaee. This program was co-sponsored by Alwan For The Arts, ...
