The Kelowna Islamic Centre is trying to bridge the gap between Muslims and non-Muslims by opening their doors to the public.
Built last year, the new centre will be participating in Open Mosque Days alongside other mosques in Richmond, downtown Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Abbotsford, Victoria, Prince George and Kamloops.
Hamid Butt, secretary at the Kelowna Islamic Centre, believes that welcoming community members into the mosque will help break down any stereotypes and preconceived notions of Islam.
“We will invite them in and let them see what it is, who we are and what we do,” said Butt.
“There are some perceptions out there about mosques, Islam and Muslims, and we are trying to tear those walls down. We are just as Canadian as everyone else.”
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Butt says he has found success in other community out reach events and looks forward to hosting more in the future.
“Our objective and goal is to tell the community in Kelowna to come and see us… ask questions and share anything you want to share,” said Butt.
The upcoming event will welcome community members into the mosque to gather over snacks to have conversations, get a tour of the Mosque, get a Henna tattoo or take part in Hijab tryouts (for women and children).
The Kelowna Islamic Centre will open its doors to the community for Open Mosque Days on Saturday, Feb. 16, 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. This event is free admission and registration is not required.
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