Source: Chicago Tribune

On November 6, 2002 the Chicago Tribune reported that "leaders of the country's estimated 7 million Muslims are using the traditional month of prayer and fasting as a signature event to introduce their non-Muslim neighbors to their Islam--the global religion of peace and mercy. The hope is a month of open houses at mosques, interfaith dinners and community presentations during Ramadan might lead to a better understanding of one of the world's great faiths. The trend of opening up Ramadan and using it as a springboard is readily apparent in the Chicago area, where local mosques and Muslim groups are planning 'Taste of Islam' events, lectures, food drives and school presentations."