1st Toledo Islamic Awareness Week timely and official

11/5/2001

Toledo's first citywide Islamic Awareness Week begins today.

Mayor Carty Finkbeiner is scheduled to join members of the city's Islamic community today at One Government Center to proclaim today through Friday a week to raise awareness of Islamic culture, beliefs, and traditions.

The University of Toledo's Muslim Students Association has held an Islam Awareness Week for 10 years, and will stage several events this week.

Maher Sabra, a teacher at Toledo Islamic Academy, will give a talk called “Islam 101” at 6 p.m. today in room 2592 of the Student Union.

Another talk today entitled “Diversity: It's Not Just Black and White,” will be sponsored by the Student Activities Office. Dan Maxwell, a national speaker, will discuss how people can learn to appreciate all colors and cultures at 7 p.m. in the Student Union Ingman Room.

On Wednesday, two speakers will discuss the history of Islam, beginning at 7 p.m. in the Student Union Ingman Room. Dr. Abed Alo, a Toledo surgeon, will talk on “Islam Through the Ages.” Imam Shaheed Rashad of the Muslim Community Center will speak about the history of Islam in America.

Masjid Saad, 4346 Secor Rd., will hold an open house from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday. Visitors will be able to tour the mosque.

City council officially recognized Islamic Awareness Week at its council meeting Tuesday night.

“Now especially is a time when we need to celebrate the diversity of the community,” Councilman Gene Zmuda said.