Doing Peace with our Muslim Friends

“In Asheville, NC, a local activist contacted the Imam of the Islamic Center to see if they would like people to stand vigil outside when they meet for prayers on Friday afternoons. The Imam accepted our support, and a coalition of members from various organizations, incl other clergy and Veterans for Peace, stood for the first time last Fri. It was very rewarding; after services the members invited us for lunch and tea. The men and women (separately) discussed Islam and learned about one another. I can't begin to articulate how wonderful it was to engage in honest discussion and learn about each other's lives—that we all want the same things—peace and a better world for our children. We have people committed to stand every Friday, incl Christmas and New Year's Days, into mid-January and/or as long as the Center's members feel they want us there. This is a great way to show the Muslim community support and learn about Islam."