In an effort to foster a better understanding of the Muslim faith, members of the American Muslim Voice Foundation joined community members in Palo Alto for an educational “get to know your neighbor” day. Marianne Favro reports.
In an effort to foster a better understanding of the Muslim faith, members of the American Muslim Voice Foundation joined with community members in Palo Alto for an educational "get to know your neighbor" day Saturday.
The event was planned prior to the Paris and San Bernadino killings, but organizers acknowledge the recent tragedies have made the meeting even more necessary. The goal is to change the dialogue surrounding Islam from one of fear to one of friendship, organizers said.
"I think I’m trying to let people feel, see, hear who we are and know that we are not terrorists," said member Samina Dundas. "To think we are involved in terrorism is the greatest loss you can imagine."
To help people learn more about Muslims, the foundation displayed wedding gowns, children’s clothing and jewelry from past generations.
The event is held every year, but the size of attendees has grown significantly. Peaceful from start to finish, the gathering was described as "enlightening," according to some attendees.
