Muslims Start Nationwide Campaign to Educate Canadians about Islam
The year-long initiative has come to Saskatoon and surrounding areas in an effort to decrease barriers and create understanding.
Many believe the aftermath of recent terrorist attacks in Jakarta, San Bernardino and Paris have left a wake of "Islamophobia” in Canada. In response to these attacks, the Muslim community has started a national campaign called ‘Demystify Islam’.
"What they see on TV and other outlets they are miscarried and they are
misinformed about Islam,” Imam Khalid Minhas said.
During the campaign, the community will hold over 130 open houses and make
almost 300 visits to 35 towns across Canada.
By engaging the public in peaceful discussions and education, the Muslim community is hoping to prevent future hate crimes.
"Give them the opportunity to meet a Muslim person, have a conversation over
coffee and get to know each other and realize Islam is all about peace,” media
spokesperson Noman Hassan said.
John Butcher, a Martinsville resident, came to the open house Saturday and said
it was the perfect opportunity to get the facts for himself.
"I think some people are pretty nervous, we’ve heard a lot of bad news. There
have been politicians who have said bad things. It’s better to come to this and
actually get the facts. Find out what people really believe,” Butcher said.
The Demystify Islam campaign will continue throughout 2016. The community says
their next stop is Warman, Sask.
Source: Global News
