Area Muslims, Christians Break Fast Together to Further Interfaith Dialogue

September 17, 2008

Author: Madhu Krishnamurthy

Source: The Daily Herald

http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=235401&src=3

Reciting verses from the Bible and Quran, roughly 50 area Muslims and Christians popped dates into their mouths to break fast together for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan at Islamic Foundation North's Libertyville mosque.

The recently held interfaith "iftar," or Muslim fast-breaking meal, is a testament to ongoing efforts to improve relations and understanding between diverse faith communities, leaders say.

For Gurnee physician Alia Ammar, it helps present Muslims in a normal light to outsiders.

"If you turn on CNN, you don't ever see anyone like me representing our faith," said Ammar, who wears a hijab or Muslim head covering.

The effort came in response to a growing curiosity about Muslims and Islam in a post-Sept. 11, 2001, America, said Vaseem Iftekhar, president of Islamic Foundation North.