Glen Allen mosque hoping to clear misconception about Islam at community open house this Saturday

On Saturday, December 4th, a Glen Allen mosque is inviting the community to a Mosque Open House. The purpose of the open house, says the Islamic Center of Richmond, is to address the increase in Islamophobia and to provide an opportunity for the neighbors to get acquainted with Muslim neighbors while at the same time deepening their understanding of the Islamic faith.

Two Muslim organizations are hosting this event: GainPeace and the Islamic center of Richmond Mosque. GainPeace is a national Islamic organization that conducts several educational forums and provides literature and opportunity for our fellow Americans to learn the facts about Islam.

“Muslims are opening the doors of our Mosques to our neighbors to provide them with an opportunity to get to know the Muslim community,” said GainPeace Director Dr. Sabeel Ahmed. “The current political climate has created an environment of mistrust, and also a curiosity in public to learn more about Islam and these Mosque Open Houses will educate them and take any questions on Islam.” Dr. Ahmed added, “The open house will also create opportunities to form alliances between the Muslim-Americans and their neighbors to better the community.”

The Mosques will serve lunch to guests.

The Islamic Center of Richmond is located at 8481 Hungary Road in Glen Allen. The event takes place Saturday, December 4, 11 am to 1:30 pm.

What to expect:

• The social hour includes Henna design for ladies, face painting for kids, Islamic Artifacts table, Ask Imam Booth, try the Hijab booth, and exclusive VR (Virtual Reality) glasses to let viewers experience Islam in 360 degrees
• Break for lunch
• Presentation on Islam, common misconceptions, working together with other faiths, etc.
• Question and answer session
• Tour of the Mosque, witnessing of the Congregation Prayer, and gift-giving to guests