Open day promotes respect and understanding

BALLARAT’S Islamic community opened the doors of its mosque for Victorian Open Mosque Day last Saturday.

Islam is the second-fastest growing religion in Australia, and it is estimated that more than 4 per cent of the Victorian population is Muslim.

The initiative aims to open the community’s hearts and minds and promote mutual understanding.

The day included presentations about the significance of women in Islam, salah or the ritual prayer of Muslims, and Ramadan, which is a month of fasting, prayer and reflection.

Event organiser Aasiya Furniturewala, who spoke about women in Islam, said it was important to clarify common misconceptions.

“People when they see you wearing a hijab … think that you might not be educated,” she said.

“I can guarantee if you walk around here everyone has a PhD or Masters.

“The other [misconception] is that women are backward in Muslim culture, and they don’t have enough rights, but it’s so beautiful in Islam culture that it gave women a right 1400 years ago to own property, to study, to get knowledge.”

The Islamic Society of Ballarat has occupied the Canadian-based site since its opening in 2016.

The celebrations also included food, children’s activities and question-asking opportunities.

Ms Furniturewala’s work colleague Dionne Heagney attended the open day and said it was important to learn about diverse cultures.

“I don’t get to experience many cultural things and it’s to be able to see and experience what Aasiya brings to the community,” she said.

“To be able to be all inclusive at work and for all of the community is important, for me to have more of an understanding helps me.”

Ms Furniturewala thanked the community for its support and open mindedness.

“It’s so refreshing because I went around asking people and they are so open to be here,” she said.

“It’s so overwhelming.”