College hosts educational diversity event on Muslim culture

January 26, 2017

Anoka-Ramsey Community College Office of Diversity and Multiculturalism hosted an all-day informative diversity event, Bridging the Gap: America and Muslim Culture, in mid-January to educate the community about the Islamic faith and Muslim culture. 

Multiple speakers included two Anoka-Ramsey instructors Dr. Abdul Dardery and Dr. Nadia Mohamed, as well a panel discussion and an extensive question-and-answer session. 

Dr. Dardery, Cultural Studies instructor at Anoka-Ramsey, kicked off the event by providing details about the Islamic religion and Muslim culture. The word Islam comes from the Arabic root word “slm” meaning “peace.” The three characteristics of Islam are one God, one humanity and one earth.

According to Dr. Dardery, Islam preaches peace, tranquility and serenity above all else. The basic articles of faith include God, angels, prophets, holy books, the Day of Judgment and divine decree, similar to Christianity. Islam has neither hierarchy nor clergy. It is egalitarian: focusing on the principles of justice, freedom and equality.

“The event was a great beginning for all of us to help create an America based on mutual understanding, respect and interest,” said Dr. Dardery. “We all belong to one humanity and the best way for us to create a better America is by engaging in a dialogue that emphasizes listening to one another. I look forward to another engagement that can help minimize misunderstandings.”

There are approximately 1.7 billion Muslims worldwide, making Islam the second largest religion in the world. Roughly, 6 to 7 million Muslims reside in America and about 200,000 of those live in Minnesota.

For more information about Anoka-Ramsey Community College and upcoming diversity events please visit: AnokaRamsey.edu/campus-life/diversity-inclusion/

 

ABOUT ANOKA-RAMSEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Anoka-Ramsey Community College, with campuses in Cambridge and Coon Rapids, is a member of the Minnesota State system and has been a leading provider of higher education and training in East Central Minnesota since 1978 and the north suburban area of Minneapolis/St. Paul since 1965. Anoka-Ramsey Community College was recognized as one of the Top 10 community colleges in the U.S. for 2017 by The Aspen Institute. Annually, the college serves more than 12,500 learners of all ages as they pursue associate degrees that transfer as the first two years of a bachelor's degree, or certificate programs that lead immediately to rewarding careers. Anoka-Ramsey Community College is aligned with Anoka Technical College and together the institutions serve more than 16,000 learners–the largest community and technical college entity in Minnesota. An affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and educator. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. This document is available in alternative formats to individuals with disabilities by calling the Minnesota Relay Service at 1-800-627-3529.