(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Registration is now open for a free workshop with Muslim faith and community leaders that aims to help participants better understand Islam and the experiences of Muslim DC residents, as well as how to be effective allies for the Muslim community. Hosted by the DC Office of Human Rights in partnership with Shoulder-to-Shoulder, the discussion will include concrete steps participants can take to counter Islamophobia and increase mutual understanding and respect in the District.
“As the District’s civil rights enforcement agency, we are committed to protecting residents and visitors from discrimination based on their religious beliefs,” said OHR Director Mónica Palacio. “Unfortunately, political and other rhetoric targeting our Muslim American neighbors is not infrequent, and therefore we organized this workshop with the hope that participants will leave with pragmatic strategies for countering Islamaphobia and being an ally to the Muslim community.”
Panelists will include Imam Daayiee Abdullah, Executive Director of MECCA Institute and Imam of Masjid Nurral Islaah, Darakshan Raja, Helga Herz Organizing Fellow at the Washington Peace Center, Imam Suhaib Webb, Resident Scholar at CenterDC, and Mohammed Mobaidin, director of the Masjid of Ivy City. Additional information and registration for this event is available at http://allyworkshop.eventbrite.com
Standing with Our Muslim Neighbors: A Workshop for Allies
DATE: Wednesday, March 9, 2016
TIME: 6:00pm - 8:00pm
LOCATION: Old Council Chambers, 441 4th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
REGISTRATION: Visit http://allyworkshop.eventbrite.com
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About the District of Columbia Office of Human Rights
The District of Columbia Office of Human Rights (OHR) was established to eradicate discrimination, increase equal opportunity and protect human rights for persons who live in or visit the District of Columbia. The agency enforces local and federal human rights laws, including the DC Human Rights Act, by providing a legal process to those who believe they have been discriminated against. OHR also proactively enforces human rights in the District through Director’s Inquiries, which allow it to identify and investigate practices and policies that may be discriminatory.
About Shoulder-to-Shoulder
Shoulder-to-Shoulder is an interfaith organization dedicated to ending anti-Muslim sentiment by strengthening the voice of freedom and peace. Founded in November 2010 by over 20 national religious groups, Shoulder-to-Shoulder works not only on a national level, but offers strategies and support to local and regional efforts to address anti-Muslim sentiment and seeks to spread the word abroad.
