THUNDER BAY – RELIGION – The Thunder Bay Mosque is welcoming the community this weekend for the 3rd annual open house event. The drop-in will take place Saturday August 20, 2016 at the Thunder Bay Mosque located on 591 John Street between 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
This event is being organized by the Muslim youth in order to increase the civic engagement of the diverse Muslim community in Thunder Bay and shatter some of the negative stereotypes that effect Muslims.
Farah Ahmed is a new volunteer to the organization team, and she is excited to become a part of this annual event. When asked what the open house means to her she says, “The open house is a wonderfully hopeful gesture, one that is made with humility in the spirit of togetherness. To me, it’s an incredible opportunity for residents in this city to meet Muslims face to face, hear a little bit about where they come from and who they are, and of course, to enjoy each other’s’ company in fun and fulfilling ways”.
The main objective is to welcome the broader community into the Mosque in order to advance their understanding of Muslims and Islam. A tour of the Mosque will be provided with a brief explanation of some of the Muslim religious practices. An Imam will be there to answer any questions regarding Islam, or any other religious practices that take place at the mosque. Community members will also get a chance to experience the different sub-cultures of Thunder Bay’s growing Muslim community.
Najam Syed, Thunder Bay resident, loves the open house because there is always, lots of smiling faces and great food. To him, it’s a chance to enjoy a beautiful day having fun in the company of neighbours and friends. He says the event is about “people coming together to celebrate the cultural diversity of our great city”.
Throughout the day there will be free barbecue as well as jumping castles, face painting, henna tattooing and an arts and craft section for the kids. There is something to do for everyone!
