Special course being held to educate Derry people about Islam

Local people are being encouraged to sign up for a special course aimed at educating people about Islam.

Derry City Council’s Community Relations Team have organised a one-day course taking place on February 24,  offering an insight into Islam and including how to consider service provision for Muslims living locally.

The course also seeks to examine the wider myths, perceptions and stereotypes about Muslims.

Mayor of Derry, Councillor Brenda Stevenson, said the scheme would help to break down prejudice.

She said:  “Derry is a multi-cultural city with a growing Muslim community, but sometimes lack of information about other cultures can nurture negativity.

“This course will reveal more about the Muslim faith and cultural practices, and through education and understanding promote inclusion and better relations within our community to the benefit of all faiths.”

She concluded: “As there are now a significant number of Muslims living locally in the North West, this is an opportunity for people to consider their own role in how services or projects they provide relate to the Muslim community, and consider their own role in challenging prejudice and ensuring inclusion.

The training will be provided by Belfast Islamic Centre in the Belfast Mosque on Tuesday 24th February from 11am-3pm. Training is free and includes transport and a light lunch.

Twenty-five places will be issued on a ‘first come first served basis’. Names and contact details along with any special requirements must be provided at the time of registration. A bus will leave from the Shared Future Centre car park, Irish Street at 9.00am and return at 5.00pm.

To register or find out more information about this training, please contact Jenny McClelland on 7136515 ext 8225 or by email at [email protected].