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Get to know Islam at Burnaby mosque open house on Saturday

A Burnaby mosque is opening its doors to the public on Saturday. And just in time. Now, more than ever, we need more awareness about other cultures in Canada to stem a tide of racism that is washing over Canada. When Mario Cansesco’s Research Co.
burnaby mosque
Muslims worship in a circle of prayer at the Masjid al-Salaam and Education Centre in Burnaby. Photograph By FILE PHOTO

A Burnaby mosque is opening its doors to the public on Saturday.

And just in time.

Now, more than ever, we need more awareness about other cultures in Canada to stem a tide of racism that is washing over Canada.

When Mario Cansesco’s Research Co. asked Canadians about racism in the country last month, the results were not uplifting, he said.

Two in five respondents to the survey (41%) think racism has become a more significant problem in Canada over the past two years. Women (47%) and Canadians aged 18 to 34 (46%) are more likely to feel this way.

One thing that helps racism spread is ignorance about other cultures.

To help raise awareness, Burnaby’s Masjid Al-Salaam mosque, 5060 Canada Way, will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

According to organizers, there will be an exhibition hall with various booths on Islamic themes such who is Allah, what is Islam and prophets. There will also be an “experience quraan booth,” as well as booths on Muslims in Canada, women in Islam, anti-muslim prejudice, calligraphy, plus story time, a photo booth, and an Imam corner where the public can ask any question on Islam. People are also invited to witness the Islamic prayer.

“In a world with ever-growing stigma and confusion around Islam and Muslims, we want to open our doors, our minds and our hearts to everyone around us, and build a stronger community,” said Asma Mazhar, one of the event organizers.

Mosques across Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley and the rest of B.C. will also be holding events.