A question and answer session will be held in Mudgee this month, where any queries about Islam can be resolved.
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A Lithgow resident has organised the evening with his imam at the Mudgee Town Hall Theatre on July 21.
Usman Mahmood said that after a short presentation, the audience will be able to ask questions they have about the religion to Imam Mohammed Atae Rabbi Hadi who will be travelling to Mudgee for the event.
“People can feel free to ask anything: Sharia, jihad, halal food, head scarves, anything,” Mr Mahmood said.
“We will not be offended.”
Imam Mohammed Atae Rabbi Hadi is the religious leader of a mosque in Marsden Park, which belongs to the ‘Ahmadiyya’ branch of Islam.
Mr Hadi, who describes himself as a religious pluralist, has taken part in many Q&A and interfaith events. He said people often question aspects of Islam they hear about on the news.
“The most common questions revolve around the confused messages people get from what they see on TV. I encourage people to come to our events and clarify any misconceptions,” Mr Hadi said.
“Our teachings are peaceful, contrary to what many believe.”
"I think if having a platform for people to ask questions means less people are living in fear then that would be a great achievement."
- Imam Mohammed Atae Rabbi Hadi
Mr Hadi said he wasn’t surprised by people’s suspicion of Islam given how media portray its followers.
“I often see abusive comments passed around the internet that are misinformed. At the end of the day I cannot blame people for that misconception.
“I think journalism can be sensationalist because they know that stories about atrocities committed by a minority in the name of Islam sell easily.
“Those stories do not cover the actual teachings of Islam, which are contrary to what these people are acting out.”
He said he hoped the event would encourage a more positive view of Muslims.
“Some people have an innate fear of Muslims and I really hope doing these events allows people to be not so afraid,” he said.
“I think if having a platform for people to ask questions means less people are living in fear then that would be a great achievement.”
The Q&A session is on July 21 at 5:30pm in the Town Hall Theatre at 64 Market Street, Mudgee.
The event is free, however, you must RSVP to usman.mahmood.au@gmail.com.