MSO facilitates discussion about Muslim faith

ICNA representative Sabeel Ahmed dispelled rumors about Muslims.

By Evan Spaulding

Published Jan. 26, 2009

A Friday discussion in Ellis Auditorium debunked stereotypes and presented attendants with everyday situations that can be credited to Islamic culture, such as getting stitches, drinking coffee or going to class.

The Muslim Student Organization sponsored an interactive discussion explaining how Islam is responsible for the development of some modern concepts on Friday in Ellis Auditorium.

Sabeel Ahmed, Islamic Circle of North America and GainPeace.com representative, gave a presentation entitled "Islam and It's Contributions to World Civilization" about topics like the basic articles of Islamic faith, the pillars of Islam and myths versus facts about Islam and Muslims.

ICNA, a Chicago-based, non-profit organization, operates GainPeace.com as an outreach program, with services ranging from education and support for new Muslims to Islam presentations at universities, churches and libraries.

Among the myths debunked by Ahmed was the idea that all Muslims are Arabs, when in fact only 18 percent of Muslims speak Arabic as a primary language. One segment of the presentation, entitled "A Day in the Life," showed how much a typical college student's life is affected by Muslim contributions to civilization through common, everyday practices.

For example, the concept behind the modern university, pharmacies, gardens, graduation caps and gowns and checks were all things pioneered by Muslims in the seventh century.

Ahmed also provided information on the formation and practices of Islam, as well as historical information as to how Islam relates to Judaism and Christianity based on scripture.

"It's about letting people know who we are, what we do, that we're not some alienated people," freshman Taha Hameduddin said. "We try to make an anti-effect of that, you know, to send out a positive message."

Ahmed stressed the importance of educating the public about Islam, and he extolled the virtues of peace through understanding.

"Each individual must start on his own, and it involves people of good heart and good mind coming together," Ahmed said. "We need to advise our media to be fair, and we need to realize that we are all one big human family."

Ahmed and the ICNA's mission is not without obstacles. ICNA volunteer Habib Raja said ignorance and media bias are among two of the biggest issues that hinder the ICNA's endeavor.

"When we started in Florida, there were quite a few hostile calls," Raja said. "But now everybody is sympathetic."

Ahmed and his organization remain hopeful and determined about the outcome of their efforts.

"We have to use the knowledge that we have," Ahmed said. "By doing this, we enhance ourselves and we enhance the people around us."