-- The Islamic Society of Greater Lansing celebrated its 30th anniversary this weekend. In 1979 some two dozen students from Michigan State University started the center where now more than 1,000 members worship.
Asad Khan, a member of the Islamic Society and the board of trustees, said the center prides itself on accepting all Muslims from all walks of life.
"It has nothing to do with your color, it's got nothing to do with your nationality. It's got nothing to do with how you are," said Khan. It's about gathering together and worshipping as a community.
There were colorful displays of culture, information and food that filled the building. But, it wasn't just the displays that brought out people from the community.
John Muenzer from the Delta Township said he came out of curiosity and support.
"It's a combination of curiosity, interest and wanting to show support," said Muenzer. "It doesn't make any sense to make judgments about people based on their religion."
It was a day of celebration while some tried to dispel the stereotypes that often plague the Islam faith. There have been many misconceptions about Muslims that often link terrorism and religion. In the most recent Fort Hood shooting, Khan said there is a distinct separation.
"The community has been understanding, as it should be. Fort Hood was an individual act," said Khan. "It's got nothing to do with Muslims or Islam."
On Friday after the shooting, there was a prayer service at the mosque where the criminal act was condemned.
"We all condemn it and we hope and pray the victims would be soothed by the sympathy," said Khan.
Sarah Mahmoud, a 17-year-old member said it's maddening to hear the negative comments about her religion after a criminal act has been committed.
"There are people who I consider extremists [in the Islamic faith] and people need to realize that those extremists have nothing to do with the real Islam," said Mahmoud.
The center is celebrating three decades of activism in the Lansing area but in that time members have also been defending their faith.
Source: Wilx.com
