On Saturday, October 29, 2016, local area leaders and concerned citizens gathered at Town Hall Seattle for an event, Islam in the Public Square, to examine the dynamics that have led to the gap in understanding about Islam in America. We discussed the many issues clouding the image of Islam and Muslims in America, sought to build understanding and tolerance across ethnic and faith lines, and looked into ways all of us can confront and overcome the misunderstandings and fears that divide us. Together, as one Seattle community, we explored ways to work together for peace and justice.
Our humble thanks to the many people and organizations whose contributions of time, effort, and resources made this event such a success.
Below are the events, with links to transcripts, video, and photos.
Introduction & Welcome
Opening Prayer
“Amsa ul husna”
[See video here]
Introduction
Randolph Urmston, Attorney (moderator)
[See video here]
Welcome
Rt. Rev. Gregory Rickel, VIII Bishop, Episcopal Diocese of Olympia
[See video and text here]
Keynote Presentations
“Understanding Islam and Our Muslim Neighbor”
From a Clash of Ignorance to a Dialogue of Civilizations!
Mohamed Jawad Khaki, Founder, Ithna-asheri Muslim Association of the Northwest (IMAN)
[See video and text here]
Video: The Clash of Ignorance
Shafique Virani / TEDxUTSC
[See video here]
Trust in One Another, a Key to a Peaceful Society
Mahmood Khadeer, Founder, Muslim Association of Puget Sound (MAPS)
[See video and text here]
How to Change a Million Minds in 15 Minutes
Varisha Khan, Senior, University of Washington, major in Political Science and Journalism
[See video and text here]
How the “Private Good” of Religion Becomes a “Public Good” for Society
Mark Markuly, PhD, Dean and Professor of Theology and Ministry, Seattle University School of Theology
[See video and text here]
Breakout Session & Call to Prayer
Panel Discussion
- Aneelah Afzali, Attorney
- Mahmood Khadeer, Founder, Muslim Association of Puget Sound (MAPS)
- Mohamed Jawad Khaki, Founder, Ithna-asheri Muslim Association of the Northwest (IMAN)
- Varisha Khan, Senior, University of Washington, major in Political Science and Journalism
- Mark Markuly, PhD, Dean and Professor of Theology and Ministry, Seattle University School of Theology
- Phillip Ginsberg, Attorney (moderator)
Video: American Muslims, Fact or Fiction
Unity Productions Foundation
[See video here]
Table Responses
Photographs
Event Sponsors
- Archdiocese of Seattle
- Bishop’s Committee, Episcopal Diocese of Olympia
- Church Council of Greater Seattle
- Community and Middle East Peace Builders
- East Shore Unitarian Church
- Fostering Interfaith Relationships on the Eastside (FIRE)
- Holy Spirit Lutheran Church
- Ithna-asheri Association of the Northwest (IMAN)
- Kairos Puget Sound Coalition
- Kirkland Interfaith Network (KIN)
- Middle East Focus Ministry, St. Mark’s Cathedral
- Muslim Association of Puget Sound (MAPS)
- Neighbors in Faith
- Minister and Board of Northlake Unitarian Universalist Church
- Pacifica Institute
- Peace Catalyst International
- St. Thomas Episcopal Church
- Temple B’Nai Torah
- AJC Seattle
- Kent Covenant Church
HolyLandJustice.org 
You must be logged in to post a comment.