Muslim Council Of Elders Envoys Engage In Community Iftar At University Of Kansas To Promote Tolerance

Envoys from the Muslim Council of Elders visited the United States to rejuvenate the spiritual essence of Ramadan and advocate for enlightened Islamic moderation. They joined a communal iftar at the University of Kansas, organised with the Islamic Center of Lawrence. The gathering included members of the Muslim community, university students, and faculty members.

During this event, Osama Khaled from the Technical Office of the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Ahmed Sobhi from the Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism presented on Al-Azhar Al-Sharif's efforts. They discussed fostering dialogue, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence. Their presentation highlighted initiatives promoting peace, compassion, and cooperation among diverse groups while addressing extremism, racism, intolerance, discrimination, and Islamophobia.

The Muslim Council of Elders' delegation also engaged in a roundtable discussion on Arabic language education at the university. This session delved into Ramadan traditions observed by Muslims worldwide. Discussions covered Islamic customs in countries like India, Pakistan, Egypt, Nigeria, and Morocco. The event was coordinated with the university’s Departments of Religious Studies, Arabic Language, and African American Studies.

The heads of these departments attended the session at the University of Kansas. For two consecutive years now, under Professor Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb's leadership as Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, the Muslim Council has dispatched religious delegations globally during Ramadan. These efforts aim to advance moderation principles and enlightened Islamic thought.

This year’s initiative includes over 32 Quran reciters and scholars sent to nine countries: Spain, Italy, Germany, Kazakhstan, Russia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, and the United States. These envoys lead prayers and recite Quranic verses while delivering sermons and religious lessons.

The Muslim Council seeks to strengthen ties with global Muslim communities through these efforts. They aim to enhance religious awareness and support positive integration into societies while protecting against extremist ideologies and shielding from violent groups.

By promoting dialogue and coexistence through religious diplomacy during Ramadan events worldwide—such as those held at universities—the council reaffirms its commitment to fostering peace across diverse cultures.

With inputs from WAM