(CLEVELAND, OHIO, 10/24/16) – More than 120 people recently joined the Cleveland chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Cleveland), West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church and local religious, civil society and social justice groups for “Teatime for Peace,” an event to help dispel stereotypes about Islam and Muslims.
The event was part of an ongoing series of interfaith gatherings being held in Cuyahoga, Summit and Lake Counties designed to foster support for the Muslim community in light of increasing Islamophobia and anti-Muslim rhetoric in American politics and media.
“From the enthusiastic turnout for the event, it is clear that people want an antidote to counter the rising hate rhetoric, division and religious scapegoating in our society,” said Isam Zaiem, CAIR-Cleveland board treasurer and co-organizer of the event. “This event was a chance to counter fear and hate with honest connection and conversation through getting to know one’s Muslim neighbors right here in our local community.”
The event was co-sponsored by Algebra Teahouse; Cleveland Peace Action; Coalition for a Better Life/Peace in the Hood; Council on American-Islamic Relations, Cleveland Chapter; Muslim Association of Cleveland East (MACE Mosque); The Madinah Project; Turkish Cultural Center; West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church; and Women Speak Out for Peace and Justice.
The next Teatime for Peace will take place on Thursday, November 17 in Hudson at the First Congregational Church.
WHAT: Teatime for Peace
WHEN: Thursday, November 17, 7 p.m.
WHERE: First Congregational Church, Fellowship Hall, 47 Aurora Street, Hudson, Ohio 44236
CONTACT: First Congregational Church 330.650.4048
CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.
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CONTACT: CAIR-Cleveland Executive Director Julia Shearson, 216.830.2247 or 216.440.2247, jshearson@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202.744.7726, ihooper@cair.com