Ahlul Bayt News Agency, Oklahoma City University will host its second annual Islam Day on Thursday to encourage cultural understanding with various campus activities.
A panel discussion titled "Women in Islam: Issues of Identity and Empowerment" is at 4:30 p.m. The discussion is free and open to everyone in the Kerr McGee Auditorium in the Meinders School of Business, NW 27 and McKinley Avenue.
Islam Day at OCU falls in the month of Ramadan, which this year is from Aug. 11 to Sept. 9. During the month, Muslims around the world fast from dawn until sunset each day.
Political science professor and Middle East expert Mohamed Daadaoui organized a list of activities for students and faculty in order to foster cross-cultural dialogue and to spread awareness about the world's second-largest religion.
"There are many misconceptions and stereotypical views about Islam," Daadaoui said. "If we can show students and the OCU community what it means to be a Muslim, hopefully it will be a step in the direction of furthering goodwill and understanding."
Community organizations have partnered with OCU for some of the activities, including the panel discussion featuring Imad Enchassi, Imam of the Islamic Society of Greater Oklahoma City; Sheryl Siddiqui, director of outreach at the Tulsa Islamic Center; and Marjan Seirafi-Pour, vice chairwoman of the Governor's Ethnic American Advisory Council.
End item/ 129
