Friendly debates, knowledge sharing, fun activities and an outpour of queries and doubts is the summary for Islam Open Day exhibition held at Aotea Square last weekend.
The exhibition saw a footfall of more than 1500 visitors during each of the two days that kept the volunteers busy all day.
Sporting blue t-shirt that read “Ask me! I am Muslim’’ the volunteers interacted with visitors from different ethnicities and walks of life.
On display were posters on the history of Islam, long white pillars signifying the five pillars of the religion, a model of the Prophet’s mosques, booths with face painting for children and free scarves and henna for women and stalls hosted by representatives of some Islamic countries such as Malaysia, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Palestine etc.
Indian Weekender spoke to both volunteers and visitors at the venue, knowing more about the exhibition and what people had to say about the religion. Some volunteers mentioned that most of the queries the visitors had were if Islam was somehow linked terrorism and what does Quran say about it.
Many present at the event said the religion had been framed by big corporate houses for political and economical gains.
The following are some of the quotes given to Indian Weekender by the visitors and volunteers at the venue.
Christine Anne Soranson
“I am a poet and a photographer on a tour, from Australia. I was passing by the street and this beautiful chant and colorful view locked my attention. I am a messenger of peace myself through the work that I do. I tried the hijab and it feels so safe and complete wearing it, now I understand why women in Islam wear them. I am so glad to have stumbled by the booth today and I look forward to learning more about Islam.”
Two female concert-goers: “We were off to a theatre show nearby and this music drew me in. I was quizzed about hijab so I queried with the lady at the booth. I know media is responsible for spreading the hate against the faith that we see today. Exhibitions as such are important to educate people about the real teachings of the religion and clarify doubts.”
Jonas
“There are many Muslims in Germany but not in a majority. I am a student here and I work on farms as well. I liked the way things are lined up over here, the posters telling the history of Islam, some has an overview on various different subjects such as responsibilities towards animals, rights for women, miracles of Quran etc.”
Abdul Jaleel Patel (volunteer)
“We have received a very good response this year. I have noticed people have more interested with queries related to terrorism and then about the religion. I belong to Masjid-e-taqwa from Papatoetoe and once every month we set a stall in Aotea Center and Kiwis, Maori and sometimes Pacific Islanders visit our stall too, a few years ago seven people reverted to Islam and they were of English, Scottish, and Irish descent. Some people are also very interested in the history and literature of Islam and we have distributed many books to them."
Miles Opey
“I came to know about Islamic Awareness Week last week through a community member at a gathering. I have met a number of Muslims here from Egypt, Oman, Pakistan, Malaysia, and Afghanistan. Yes, we have our disagreements about the faiths as I am a strict follower of Christianity and the volunteer I spoke to was a Kiwi Muslim from Afghanistan. But they are a very peace loving people and it was a delight to know about Islam and its teachings, most of it match with ours.”'
Leonard
“Speaking to these young minds gives me a better perspective and understanding about the religion. The exhibition looks vibrant with these crafted informative posters, model of the Kaaba and beautiful chanting in the background.”