It’s a mobile mission from coast to coast — the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama`at has launched a campaign to combat some of the misconceptions about the religion of Islam.
They’re driving across the country with a trailer in tow, ready to answer any questions Canadians have about Muslims or their religion.
The tour started in Newfoundland in July, and Omar Ahmed has been the face behind it from the beginning.
He was initially nervous about the reaction from Canadians, but says the response has been overwhelming.
“People have been very warm and welcoming, very thankful we’re coming to their city, coming to talk to us, thanking us for doing this, asking basic questions about Islam,” said Ahmed. “It’s been so motivating that people really appreciated that we came to their city with the message, and had conversations.”
The crew has travelled to 26 cities so far, and hope to make it to 50. (Emily Fitzpatrick/CBC)
They set out on the mission to combat some of the misconceptions about their religion, because of extremist groups like ISIS.
“It is unfortunate, it is depressing, it is hurtful that they are doing this,” said Ahmed. “You feel somehow responsible to go out and talk about it, because I can’t stop the action of what they are doing in another part of the world.”
They’re using reading materials and simple conversations to explain the true teachings they follow.
“We are normal people, living in the same country that you are, and we
enjoy the same liberties, and religious freedom that you do,” said Ahmed. “And we want you to know more about us. The more you know about us, and the more you meet us, you realize that there is nothing in common between us and that particular group that is hijacking our religion.”
They have already visited 26 cities, and Ahmed says they’ve spoken to hundreds of people.
He hopes allowing people to come to them with questions will combat the hatred spreading around his religion because of extremist groups.
“Why not talk to us? Maybe get to know the other side of the picture. Don’t paint us all with the same brush. And people have been very receptive, and I am very thankful for Canada and Canadians for doing that.”
The group will move on to Red Deer and Calgary this week, and will finish their journey in Victoria.