Clayton Mosque Holding Open Day to Promote Understanding of Muslims and Islam
Islamic Council of Victoria president Mohamed Mohideen, who is a microbiology lecturer at the university and worships at the Monash mosque said the occasion was aimed at strengthening community spirit, building better relationships with neighbors and breaking down misconceptions about Islam.
"We want the Victorian community to look beyond what is portrayed of Muslims and build dialogue and friendships while sharing mutual respect and understanding,” Mr Mohideen said.
"There’s been so much negative publicity about mosques and so much opposition to them being built, and in the current climate there is so much Islamophobia, so we hope we can help remove these negative perceptions.”
Mr Mohideen said the open day would include tours of the mosque — which is housed within a humble little home next to the university campus — and to listen to various talks about Islam, see how Muslims worship in prayer and even enjoy a barbecue.
He encouraged people to feel welcome to ask any questions on the day, which will include a Q&A session.
"Any question can be asked, because we know people will have plenty of questions and we want to help answer them,” Mr Mohideen said.
"For some people, a lot the negativity they hold towards Muslims, it comes through the media, and if you were to ask them if they’ve ever met or spoken to a Muslim they probably won’t have.
"So we are looking forward to the opportunity to help them get to know us.
"They will see that the same blood runs through all of us, the same concerns are there for all of us; we want to be able to bring up our children, educate them, find employment and more.”
The open day runs from 10am-4pm this Sunday, May 7 at the Islamic Association of Monash Mosque, 16 Beddoe St, Clayton.
Source: The Herald Sun
