Muslim Council Of Elders Hosts Intra-Islamic Dialogue Seminar To Promote Unity At America International Arabic Book Fair

The Muslim Council of Elders recently organised a significant seminar titled "Intra-Islamic Dialogue: A Reading of the Call for the People of Qiblah" at the America International Arabic Book Fair. This event featured Imam Mohammad Mardini, Director of the American Muslim Centre in Dearborn, and Imam Ahmad Sobhi Mustafa, a researcher from Kansas City. They discussed the pressing need for Islamic unity amidst increasing polarisation and divisive rhetoric.

Imam Mohammad Mardini highlighted Dearborn as a real-world example of Islamic unity, embodying the principles outlined in the Call for the People of Qiblah declaration. He stated, "In Dearborn, we embody the Call for the People of Qiblah by uniting Muslims from all backgrounds under one shared faith, as Allah commands in the Quran: ‘And hold fast to the rope of Allah, all of you, and do not be divided.’ For over four decades, we have built a community where all are welcomed in our mosques, without distinction. This charter has inspired us to confront the sectarian rhetoric promoted by some media platforms by launching dialogue-based initiatives and organising joint religious activities that foster coexistence, reflect the true spirit of Islam, and offer a model that can inspire communities across the Muslim world."

The seminar built on outcomes from February 2025's Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference. Organised with Al-Azhar and Bahrain's Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, it emphasised unity among Islamic schools through the "Call for the People of Qiblah." This charter offers a constructive path for mutual understanding across diverse Muslim communities.

Imam Ahmad Sobhi Mustafa stressed how vital this declaration is globally in countering extremism and fostering cooperation in diverse societies like the United States. He remarked, "The Call for the People of Qiblah, launched by His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, reminds us that our shared qiblah is a symbol of our unity, despite our differences. Allah intended diversity to be a source of enrichment, not division. Here in America—where stereotypes and political divides persist—we must engage one another directly, moving beyond preconceived perceptions. The charter calls on us to reject extremism and engage in dialogue grounded in the Prophet’s saying: ‘Whoever prays our prayer, faces our qiblah in prayer, and eats our slaughtered animals is a Muslim.’ Through conferences and joint forums, we can present a unified image of Islam and fulfill our role in building bridges and countering all manifestations of division."

The seminar also highlighted media's crucial role in promoting Islamic unity through cultural exchange. Participants encouraged grassroots initiatives inspired by this charter to deepen shared awareness among Muslims. Establishing inclusive platforms was seen as essential to strengthening bonds within diverse communities.

This event was part of the Muslim Council of Elders’ involvement in America's first International Arabic Book Fair held from May 1 to May 4, 2025. The venue was Dearborn's Ford Community & Performing Arts Centre.

With inputs from WAM