This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Islam Awareness Week
22/11/2004
Islam Awareness Week begins today and Deputy First
MInister Jim Wallace describes it as a 'crucial
opportunity' to tackle prejudice and dispel myths
surrounding the religion.
At Glasgow Central Mosque, Mr Wallace said:
"Islamic culture has been an inspiration to generations
of Scots. Its influence can be seen everywhere: in our
architecture, our art and literature, our science, even in
our language.
"Muslims and others from minority ethnic communities in
Scotland and throughout the UK have contributed across the
board in so many fields including business and cultural
life. This is the perfect occasion to recognise and
celebrate that contribution.
"This week also an opportunity to foster a greater
understanding and awareness of Islam - a religion with
great history and worldwide significance. Yet it is often
misunderstood. Misconceptions and myths abound. I hope your
week of activity will help to remedy this.
"Fear and ignorance are often at the root of prejudice
and discrimination and give rise to hostility and
alienation. People fear what they do not know and shun what
they do not understand.
"Education and awareness raising are therefore crucial
to building a society which is both at one with itself and
confident in its dealing with others.
"Ignorance and lack of understanding act as barriers to
harmony and can fuel dissention and antipathy.
"Recent tragic global events have unfortunately prompted
some in our communities to belief that it is justified to
make anti-Islamic comments or to abuse or harass Muslims,
or those they presume to be Muslims, in the street. I
deplore this and can assure you that such views and
behaviour have no place in Scotland."
Islam Awareness Week is a pro-active initiative that
seeks to help Muslims and non-Muslims to come together in a
climate of understanding and appreciation.
In its tenth year, IAW can now boast hundreds of local
events across the country organised by Muslims and
non-Muslims, all building bridges of understanding across
communities.
The week is organised by the Islamic Society of Britain,
which is affiliated to the Muslim Council of Britain
(MCB).
In Scotland it is being organised by the Muslim
Information Service (Scotland).
Over 20 Primary and Secondary schools (over 1,200
pupils) have requested Assemblies/lessons at their school,
or have arranged to visit Glasgow Central Mosque during the
week to partake in Mosque tours, ehibitions and
workshops.