Grassroots Campaign to Dispel Islamophobia in Europe and Australia
For the second year in a row on March 12, 2016, thousands of
Muslims in Europe and Australia have aimed to break down barriers with the
public by holding meetings points for people to come and discuss Islam. The
event is being attended by thousands in Europe and Australia in an effort to
breakdown the prejudice and stereotypes of Muslims.
"Studies have shown that where there is no personal contact with Muslims, the fear of Islam is the greatest and Muslims in those areas are under the threat," said Kadir Arslan, General Secretary for IGMG.
"As IGMG we want to counteract this negative development and a positive contribution to society,” said Arslan. "In Austria we have street meeting points in Gmunden, Wels, Linz, Steyr, Perg and of course in Vöcklabruck on the town square, we want to make the most natural way to promote a positive encounter between Muslims and non-Muslims. The aim is to for citizens to approach any street meeting point with their questions about Islam and Muslims to answer and to remove any possible prejudice. In return, we thank those who visit with a rose and a traditional Turkish sesame bagel.
For us it’s important to counter the effects of Islamophobia through discussion. Last year we had more than 100 meetings points in various locations in Europe with more than a 1000 Muslim volunteers resulting in a face to face meeting of more than 61,000 people. This year, we have more than 150 locations in 8 different locations".
Follow the campaign at #HelloIamaMuslim
Source: World Bulletin
