A wave of curious South Surrey and White Rock residents streamed into the South Surrey Recreation Centre last Saturday to meet their Muslim neighbours.
The White Rock Muslim Association (WRMA) – which has been operating in the Semiahmoo Peninsula for the past 11 years – invited the community to learn about Islam, Muslim and the types of cultures Muslims come from, their heritage, history and contributions in fields such as science, politics and economics.
WRMA president Asad Syed told Peace Arch News by email Monday that the association was “very pleased” to welcome more than 200 residents to the event.
“Although the event was set to start at noon, our enthusiastic and curious neighbours showed up much earlier and we had a steady stream of people coming by until the very end of the event, and even past 4 p.m.,” Syed said. “We received positive responses from community members who provided us with wonderful feedback and inquiries about similar future events.”
The event featured various displays, clothing, jewelry, calligraphy, henna, literature and a spread of food featuring dishes from South Asia, North America and the Middle East.
“We also had a presentation that ran regularly during intervals which was given by various members of the WRMA that served to educate attendees on what Islam is, what the Qur’an is, who the Prophet Muhammad is and clearing up various misconceptions,” Syed said.
