PRESS RELEASE

2006 ARCHIVED WEBLOG OF PROJECTS, NEWS, & ARTICLES

PRESS RELEASE: Muslim Festival Committee To Be Formed 12/29/06 The Muslim Forum of Utah is forming a new committee of Muslims from various Islamic organizations and individuals in Utah in order to plan for a Festival in May of 2007. Please call 801-979-7649 and/or email info@muslim-forum.org. in order to get more information for the date/time/place of the committee meetings. Donations have already been pledged for the festival, what we need now is people voicing their opinion about what they want to see at this festival that will represent Utah's Muslim community. The goal of this festival is synonymous with our mission statement: "To improve the image and condition of the Muslim community in Utah by providing educational opportunities for Muslims and non-Muslims; to foster the correct representation of Islam in the mass media; and to develop and establish programs that will improve the conditions of all Utahans."

Alrasool Islamic Center Program for Eid Al-Adha/Arafat/Al-Ghadir 12/29/06 Maulana Abbas Ayleya of Seattle is visiting AlRasool Islamic Center on Saturday January 06, 2007 on occasion of Eid-e-Ghadir. There will be a formal program on Saturday January 06, 2007Please click here to get the full program information:

AIC Eid PrograM (December 28th, 29th, 30th & January 6th)

Islamic Society of Greater Salt Lake Eid Al-Adha/Arafat Program 12:29/06 To get more information, please click here: ISGSL Eid Program

General Body Elections: The Islamic Society of Greater Salt Lake on Dec. 31st! 12/29/06 To get more information click here: ISGSL General Body Elections

Listen to "Freedom from Prejudice: Utah's Middle Eastern Voices" 12/12/06 Listen to the KCPW broadcast of last nights event! Listen>>>

Mayor to Host “Freedom from Prejudice: Utah’s Middle Eastern Voices” 12/11/06 The Muslim Forum of Utah was contacted by Mayor Rocky Anderson's office in order to spread the news about this timely event. Event will occur Wednesday, December 13 from 7-9 PM at the City Library What: Mayor Rocky Anderson will host a Freedom Forum this Wednesday on Utah communities of Middle Eastern descent. The forum, “Freedom from Prejudice: Utah’s Middle Eastern Voices,” will explore the experiences of Utah’s Middle Eastern communities after the events of September 11, 2001, raise awareness about the rich diversity of these communities, and tackle the question of how tensions and conflicts involving Middle Eastern groups overseas affect community relations in Utah. Who: Mayor Anderson will give opening and closing remarks at the Forum. The event will include a panel discussion of experts with a wide range of perspectives on the Middle East, with ample time for questions from the audience. A KCPW reporter will moderate the discussion. The panelists are: Noor Ul-Hasan – Member, Mosque Khadeeja Peter Sluglett – Professor of History and faculty member at the Middle East Center, University of Utah Kilo Zamora – Executive Director, National Conference for Community and Justice (NCCJ) of Utah Ron Zamir – CEO of Allen Communication Learning Services Ghulam Hasnain – Organizer, Salt Lake American Muslim Cultural Festival When: Wednesday, December 13, 2006 7-9 PM Where: Main Library Auditorium 210 East 400 South Salt Lake City, UT Media: The event will be broadcast live on KCPW (1010 AM, 88.3 FM, 105.3 FM). The forum will also be taped for later broadcast on SLC-TV, Cable Channel 17. To see a complete list of programs and watch the station in streaming video format, visit www.slctv.com. download press release>>>

Islam In America Lecture Encore! 12/11/06 With the invitation from University of Utah professor Dr. Ben Crowe. Muhammad Asadullah completed the second day of a two part series lecture on Islam in America. Muhammad shared personal experiences to the delight of the students. pictures>>>

Islam in America Lecture by Muhammad Asadullah: Thursday, Nov. 30th 11/30/06 Muhammad Asadullah will be giving a two part lecture on Islam in America. Asadullah established the first Musallah (Muslim prayer hall) on American soil for the U.S. Airforce. The Musallah was well received by Chaplain Colonel Rhon V. Carleton. Muhammad has spent over 30 years as a Daei (caller to Islam) in Islam and has helped build over 20 Masjids (Mosques) across America. Date: Thursday, November 30th. Place: Milton Bennion Hall Room 302, University of Utah. Time: 9:10am to 10:30am. Sponsored by The Muslim Forum of Utah.

REPORT: Royal Saudi Education Ministers Met With The Muslim Forum of Utah Wed. Nov. 22nd by Bobby Darvish, MFU President 11/23/06 Guests of the U.S. Department of State: The Saudi Education Ministers met with The Muslim Forum of Utah's Bobby Darvish and Abdul Malik Muhammad, who explained to the Saudi Ministers the current state of the Utah Muslim Community in regards to the lack of cooperation between Sunnis, Shias, & Sufis due to the Indo-Pak & Arab domination of the Sunni Mosques in Utah. (This of course was covered in the National Muslim Retreat in New York as well: It is forbidden in Islam for any ethnic group to dominate the Muslim community.) They spoke of their meeting with the IQRA Academy as well as with the Islamic Society of Greater Salt Lake. Issues that came up had to do with the non-elected secular presidency of the ISGSL (We are waiting for the upcoming elections) as well as the push by some in the ISGSL for the MFU to merge with them. In the words of the Saudi Ministers "The little circle joining the big circle". Which of course was made clear that the MFU does not have to merge with any other entity to be considered a viable organization working for the Muslim community...The MFU has always been involved with the "big circle" however the "big circle" has not been involved with the "little circle". The Saudis made it clear that there were certain fanatics in the Muslim community that had badmouthed the MFU, which of course is expected anytime an organization has been successful in it's positive mission. The Saudi Ministers asked if the MFU had an Alim they took fatwas from, which was explained to them that we have many Sunni, Shia, and Sufi Alim's that work with the MFU in regards to fiqh related matters. The Saudis made it clear that there were differences between Sunni & Shia doctrine, however they were still willing to work with Shias and other Sunnis in the way of God. The Saudi Ministers left with the assurance they would support us and that God willing we would be successful in our work. They said they "appreciated" our work and that we should keeping doing work in the way of Allah. Supplemental Note: The MFU did find it offensive that the delegates made excuses not to eat or pray with MFU members. In regards to going to dinner, they mentioned that there was not enough time and they were "tired". In regards to praying Fajr with them, they mentioned that "it was not appropriate". In Muslim culture it is usually taken as an offense if you make excuses or refuse to sit at the table of your host or pray along side them. We hope that this is not the case inshallah. However, we feel that the delegates assumed we were Shias, Sunnis, and/or Sufis that are not part of the regular Salafi groups that they are used to. The comments made about the big and little circle we assume is related to the delegates talking to certain members of the ISGSL before talking to us. The idea that the MFU should join with the ISGSL would undermine the mission of the MFU. Listen to the Report>>>

PRESS RELEASE: Royal Saudi Education Ministers Meeting With The Muslim Forum of Utah 11/16/06 Guests of the U.S. Department of State: The Saudi Education Ministers, who have previously met with BYU and LDS Church Officials in the past, would like to learn more about the Muslim Forum of Utah and about our efforts through educational opportunities and programs to foster the correct representation of Islam within the state and media. Also, they will probably be interested in talking about our experiences living here in Utah and living in an over-whelmingly non-Muslim community. The meeting will take place inshallah on November 22nd. Stay tuned for pictures and more information inshallah.

Program for Thursday at Alrasool Center 11/16/2006 1. Fateha kani between 4pm - 6pm for the father of sister Fariba Moghimi and the father of Br. Jamal. 2. Prayers at 5:15pm. 3. Dua' Kumail. 4. Little speach about Imam Jaffer Sadaq Or Ziyra of Imam Jafer Sadaq. Refreshment will be served.Contact: Br. Amir Zaidi ( 801) 599-5358.

PRESS RELEASE: The Faith Club Coming To Utah 11/8/06 The Muslim Forum of Utah plans to bring The Faith Club to Salt Lake City, Utah January, 2007.

"After September 11th, Ranya Idliby, an American Muslim of Palestinian descent, faced constant questions about Islam, God, and death from her children, the only Muslims in their classrooms. Inspired by a story about Muhammad, Ranya reached out to two mothers to try to understand and answer those questions for her children. After just a few meetings, however, it became clear that the women themselves needed an honest and open environment where they could admit—and discuss—their concerns, stereotypes, and misunderstandings about one another. After hours of soul-searching about the issues that divided them, Ranya, Suzanne, and Priscilla grew close enough to discover and explore what united them." - The Faith Club Watch The Today Show interview: Video

PRESS RELEASE: Eid Al-Fitr Celebration 11/8/06 November 12, 2006 2:00-4:00 p.m. Main Library (Downtown). Eid al-Fitr means "festival of fast-breaking", and is a joyous Muslim celebration marking the end of Ramadan. Join us for arts and crafts, drums, henna painting, calligraphy, and more! Main Library Auditorium 2:00-2:30pm: Introduction Honored Guest, Significance of Ramadan, Eid ul-Fitr, Eid ul-Adha, Drums. 2:30-4:00pm: Film Documentary, 45 min. each, "A Visit to a Mosque in America", "Islam: Empire of Faith". Main Library Conference Room (1) 2:00-4:00pm: Cultural booths and children's activities. Fun with beads, calligraphy, painting with henna, South Asian/South African/ Middle Eastern fashion and crafts, game booth, literary corner, carpet display. Cosponsored by The Islamic Society of Greater Salt Lake, Marie Callender's Restaurant & Bakery. Main Library 210 East 400 South 524-8200 (www.slcpl.org).

PRESS RELEASE: Urgent Appeal! University of Utah Student Detained 11/03/06 On Tuesday night, October 31, 2006, I found out from a student in my Iranian Film class at the University of Utah that a classmate, a student of mine, Nasser Marafie, had been in jail for the past week. I was utterly shocked and horrified and tried to determine the reason. It seems Nasser had either taken more university units than permitted to international students or the authorities had not been able to determine whether or not he has been attending his classes. - Prof. Amirsoleimani, University of Utah download full letter>>> Advocacy groups and legal council have been alerted to this situation. If you can help, please contact us at info@muslim-forum.org.

PRESS RELEASE: Halal Festival Update! 11/01/06 We are currently forming a committee of various ethnic and sectarian organizations and individuals within Utah in order to organize a new Muslim Festival that will educate the public about Islam and Muslims. The lack of knowledge concerning Islam for the common American is disturbing. The lack of information for the general public results in various misunderstandings locally, nationally, and internationally. Our first inaugural event was called "The Festival of Abraham", however we have not had it repeated again, due to lack of funds and support from our local community. We currently have been pledged $10,000 for the festival. The donors will donate only when we have organized the festival and receipts are given for each place money is to be used. So, if you are a member of the Islamic Society of Greater Salt Lake, Alrasool Islamic Center, or any other organization, please contact us ASAP! info@muslim-forum.org and/or (801) 979-7649.

Eid Pizza & Sandwich Special! 11/28/06 From now on our friends at Wild Mushroom Pizza in Sugarhouse (2711 S State Street) will give you 7% off any item on the menu if you mention you are a friend of The Muslim Forum of Utah and heard it on our website! Also, stop by the Wild Mushroom Pizza in Sugarhouse to grab 1 large, 1 topping pizza for only $6.99! Call to order: (801) 484-6100 Eid Mubarak!

Exclusive! Beautiful Bosnian Nasheed (Islamic Music) 11/28/06 to celebrate Ramadan & Eid Fitr: Download mp3. Submitted by Utah Bosnian Muslims. If you have any nasheeds, Quran, and/or lectures that you would like to see on here, please submit them to us at info@muslim-forum.org for publishing on our site.

Eid Mubarak! 11/23/06 On behalf of The Muslim Forum of Utah, Eid Ul-Fitr Mubarak! (Happy Eid Fitr). The majority of the community in Utah has chosen Monday, 23th of October as the end of Ramadan and celebrating Eid Ul-Fitr, however the minority has chosen the Tuesday, 24th as the day of Eid. Some choose to take the scientific calculation method, while others choose to follow the traditional (sunnah) of sighting the moon by the naked eye (possibly binoculars/telescope). Both of these methods are acceptable and it really depends on the individuals when they start their fast, which is based on this moonsighting. There is a story of Jews during the time of the Prophet (peace be upon him) who had a calculated method of moonsighting for their calender, however the Prophet still said to use the naked eye as the main way of telling when Ramadan starts/finishes. Muslims should truly refrain from forcing other Muslims to choose one specific date to start/finish, because there is no requirement that says for the sake of Muslim unity or tawhid to have everybody start/finish on the same date. Please visit www.utahmuslims.com to get information for Khadeeja and Alnoor Mosques, also recently posted is the explanation of why the ISGSL and ISNA did not correspond on the start/finish of Ramadan. If you are looking for information regarding Alrasool Islamic Center, please download the following documents: Alrasool Eid Celebration

Happy Ramadan Utah! First Day of Fasting for Utah is Sunday, 24th of September 9/24/06 We have confirmed the 24th of Sept. to be the start of fasting for the month of Ramadan in Utah. The month in which many Muslims reconfirm their faith and fast during the day light hours and feast at night. This goes on for thirty days and ends with a big Eid Festival. The Islamic Society of Greater Salt Lake has confirmed the 24th of Sept. as the start of fasting for Ramadan. The Alrasool Islamic Center has sent a report saying the 25th is the start of Ramadan, but this is still contested, considering in Iran fasting started on the 24th and in Saudi Arabia it has started on the 23rd of Sept. The Muslim Forum of Utah has started the fast on the 24th of Sept., which corresponds with the majority of reports coming in. Please stay tuned for more information about Ramadan in Utah! Ramadan Resources: Zaytuna Institute | Al-Islam.Org. Imam Hamza Yusuf Hansen's Khutba on Ramadan: Religion vs. Tribalism The Moonsighting Debate: Website New! Zaytuna Ramadan Letter on the start of Ramadan.

Imam Mehdi's (as) Birthday at Alrasool Islamic Center 9/4/06 Shaykh Hassan Habhab of Detroit will be giving a lecture at Alrasool Islamic Center (AIC) on Sept. 8th & 9th, which on both days the speeches will be followed by a potluck dinner. Program starts at sunset just before 8:30pm. Also, Executive Council elections are on Sept. 8th and 9th as well, so if you would like to take part in the Executive Council or take part in the elections, try to be there either on the 8th or 9th of September.

PRESS RELEASE: (Salt Lake City, Utah, USA) NEW PROPOSED "HALAL" MUSLIM FESTIVAL BY MUSLIMS FOR EVERYBODY! 8/31/06 "We have been made an offer by a generous contributor to create a brand new festival put on by Muslims for everybody! If you would like to join us with your ideas and support please email us to join this new committee at info@muslim-forum.org or call (801) 942-1552. We are inviting leaders and individuals within the community to come and join our committee to discuss the moral and ethical implementation of Islamic values within this new festival. Once the festival has been decided upon, we will provide the funding through the MFU's Bank Account. May God be with you always." - Bobby Darvish, MFU President Creating a planning committee for the new festival will take place after Ramadan inshallah. Many people in the Sunni and Shia community have already come up and shown interested in joining this multi-ethnic and multi-sectarian committee/council facilitated by The Muslim Forum of Utah. We will be meeting with people after Ramadan inshallah.

Salt Lake American Muslim Festival 2006 – August 26^th & 27^th 8/24/06 The Festival will run from about 3pm to 7pm on Saturday and Sunday. It will take place at Washington Square (Between 1st and 2nd East on 4th South) in Salt Lake City, Utah. We will be tabling Saturday & Sunday Aug. 26^th and 27th at around 3:30pm. You may sign up at the booth to volunteer, join, or donate to The Muslim Forum of Utah. Utah’s only all inclusive Sunni, Shia, Sufi, & Non-Sectarian Muslim 501c3 non-profit organization that does not compromise it’s morals and ethics. The festival will go on today from 2 to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 3 to 7 p.m., the Salt Lake American Muslim Cultural Festival will be in full swing in Washington Square at the Salt Lake City and County Building, 451 S. 200 East. The festival will include music, food, merchandise, family activities, dance and even a rock-climbing wall. Concurrently, and in cooperation with the SLC Film Festival and Downtown Library, there will be films shown for free in the City Library Auditorium from 2 to 6 p.m. today, and from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday. The cultural celebrations are open to the public. For more information and the film schedule and descriptions, www.saltlakeamericanmuslim.com, e-mail ghasnain@hotmail.com or call 801-671-6709. SLTRIB ARTICLE 1 | SLTRIB ARTICLE 2 | SLTRIB ARTICLE 3 | KCPW AD | Google Listings | SLAM 2005 VIDEO | SLAM ‘O3 ’04 & ’05 FESTIVAL PICTURES | Ghulam Hasnain & Imam Shuaib on KCPW Radio | Ghulam Hasnain’s Festival Homepage (SLAM Festival)

Celebrating The Prophecy of The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) 8/24/06 The celebration will take place at Alrasool Islamic Center (470 E. Stanley Ave. in Salt Lake City, Utah) Thurs Aug 24 after sunset and night prayers with an informal speech and refreshments. Formal program to celebrate the “Besat” and the birthdays of Imam Husain, Imam Zain ul-Abideen and Hazrat Abbas will take place on Saturday Aug 26 after sunset and night prayers with dinner provided by the Center. There is a formal program being planned to celebrate the birthday of Imam Mehdi. Details to follow in a separate message next week…God willing.

KVNU 610 AM Radio Interview With Bobby Darvish & Abdul Malik Muhammad of The Muslim Forum of Utah 8/17/06 Tom Grover of the Tom and Ryan show on KVNU 610 AM Radio, which usually features radio personalities like Sean Hannity, Rush Limbaugh and Dr. Laura; interviewed Bobby Darvish & Abdul Malik Muhammad of The Muslim Forum of Utah in an hour and a half long session about current events that features a question and answer session by radio listeners calling into the show. The interview was at 7pm on Wed. & Thurs. night (Aug. 16 & 17) on 610 AM (KVNU) Radio. Listen/Download Part 1 mp3 | Listen/Download Part 2 mp3

Relief on Foiled Terror Plot 8/16/06 "As a representative of mainstream American Muslims, MPAC reminds the international community during this sensitive time that Islam does not tolerate the use of terrorism for any purpose, regardless of who the aggressors are and what their justifications might be. It is a time for solidarity, not division, for the British and American people, regardless of race or faith, to fight against the evil of terrorism." Learn more about Islam's condemnation of terror: www.islamdenouncesterrorism.com.

Speech & Potluck Dinner at Alrasool Islamic Center 8/16/06 Death of Imam Musa Kazem will be observed at Alrasool Islamic Center on Aug. 19th Saturday after Sunset and Night prayers with a speech and a potluck dinner. There will also be a gathering for ladies at 6pm on that day.

Special Report: Who is a Muslim? The 5 Traditional Schools within Islam 8/9/06 The renowned al-Azhar Theological school in Egypt, one of the main centers of Sunni scholarship in the world had a ten year long exchange with a Shia scholar. After a long period of discusions, they announced the following on July 6, 1959:

"The Shi'a is a school of thought that is religiously correct to follow in worship as are other Sunni schools of thought." - Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt

Today, both Shi'a and Sunni students graduate and study at the Al-Azhar university.This statement has been received with a variety of responses, the most hostile being from the Salafis (Wahabis). A copy of the fatwa can be found here. A copy of all the exchanges between the Sunni Scholarship and the Shia Scholarship can be found here.

Hazrat Ali Ibn Abu Talib's (as) Birthday Celebration at Alrasool Islamic Center 8/8/06 There will be a brief program to celebrate Hazrat Ali's (as) Birthday at Alrasool Islamic Center. First on the actual day , which is Tuesday Aug. 8th after Sunset Prayer. Then on Saturday, Aug. 12th after Sunset Prayer. Followed by a speech and potluck dinner! Please bring a dish to share.

Roles of Religious Leaders In A Democracy 7/24/06 The MFU, representing American Muslims, hosted a meeting with an Afghan delegation who are guests of the U.S. Department of State. There were 5 delegates (all Sunni and Shia Muslim leaders from Afghanistan) and 2 interpreters accompanying them. The delegates visited the US to learn about the role of religious leaders in a democracy – more specifically the political, social, and civic roles and responsibilities of religious leaders in our society. In addition, they explored topics such as interfaith understanding, advocacy and activism by religious communities and organizations, and religious diversity; which The Muslim Forum of Utah are specialists at. One of the delegates, Mr. Abdul Qadir Emami's daughter; Jamila Emami (Film Maker: Afghanistan Unveiled) is President of "Women's Eyes Media Organization Afghanistan". Women's Eyes is working to encourage women access to the Media through filmmaking education. The meeting took place Monday, July 24th at 5:30pm. Special thanks goes out to Samantha from the UCCD, which consistently works with the MFU to foster education, civil rights, social work and interfaith projects in Utah through citizen diplomacy. If you would like to take part in such events, or invite us to meet with you, please contact us: info@muslim-forum.org.

Celebration of The Birthday of Sayeda Fatima Al-Zahra (The Prophet's Daughter) 7/10/06 In honor of the Prophet Muhammad's daughter, The Alrasool Islamic Center will be having a program for her birthday. Saturday July 15, 2006. Program: 8:45 – 9:15pm Introduction to: Not in My Mamma’s Kitchen, Caffee & Caffee Tobacco Prevention Program, Salt Lake County Community Access to Technology Computer Training Program (free one-on-one training) Employment Agency specializing in Ethnic Minority hiring 9:30pm. Prayer at 10pm. Speech by Maulana Hassan Al-Habhab from Detroit, Michigan. Dinner.

The Muslim Forum of Utah Homepage Statistics Report 7/10/06 The Muslim Forum of Utah Homepage has been rated the #1 Utah Muslim Media Website. It has been rated 3/10 points on the Google ranking system, which is the highest in Utah for any Islamic related page. The current statistics reflect a program start date of July 10th, 2006. Since then we have had 292,253 unique requests (hits). In the last 7 days we have had 13,876 requests (hits) alone! Download Monthly Report>>>

Iqra Academy Updates 7/10/06 (Posted Monday, 5th Jun '06) Please read the transcript of The Islamic Society of Greater Salt Lake President Nadeem's speech to the community with crucial updates on Iqra Academy. The Iqra Academy used to be located in the prestigious east bench Ft. Union area, however it has now been moved to be adjacent to The Khadeeja Islamic Center (West Valley City, Utah) as well as being assimilated into the Islamic Society of Greater Salt Lake.

Holy Qur'an Recitation For The Deceased 6/28/06 Father of Dr. Amir Jabini and Hamid Jabini passed away in Iran June 26th. There will be Khatme Quran at Alrasool Islamic Center. Starting at 8pm on Thursday June 29 to conclude by Maghrib for 'ithalay thawab' for the departed soul. Refreshments will be served.

World Refugee Day 6/23/06 Learn of refugee life in Salt Lake City, Utah. A family event that has entertainment, food and art. Please attend tommorrow Saturday, June 24th from 6pm to 10pm at The Gallivan Center Plaza. Many Muslim refugees have come to Utah from Afghanistan, Bosnia, Iraq, Somalia, Sudan, and various other countries because of ethnic, economic, secular, political, religious and other reasons. The organization that has been working to ensure that refugees get the help they need include organizations like The Utah Consortium of Multicultural Groups. Dr. Buba Roth, CEO of the Utah Peace Institute, and Stanford Aderibigbe of the Utah Consortium of Multicultural Groups on the plight of international refugees resettled in Utah. They say many refugees are living in conditions worse than that of refugee camps in their homelands and it's time to do something about it.

First Muslim Student President at University of Utah Named To Utah State Board of Regents 6/12/06 Ali Hasnain, the first Muslim student body president at the University of Utah, has been selected to represent public college students on the state Board of Regents. He replaces U. student Gaby Kingery. Ali Hasnain is the son of Ghulam Hasnain, who is the main founder of the SLAM Festival which The Muslim Forum of Utah help co-found and will be having it's 4th Annual SLAM Festival coming up on August 26th and 27th. Salt Lake Tribune Article>>> | Governor Huntsman's Official Homepage - Article>>>

Wafat Program: Syeda Fatima (as) 6/11/06 "According to one rewayah the wafat of Sayyeda Fatima aleha assalaam falls on June 17 Saturday. We will be observing this occasion after Maghrib/Isha salaat with a brief program and a dinner provided at The Alrasool Islamic Center. Those of you interested and willing to bring something are encouraged to bring cooked rice for the dinner as other elements of the dinner will be provided." - Ghulam Hasnain (Alrasool Islamic Center Rep.)

A Practical Guide To Muslim Unity 6/11/06 A practical look at the dynamics of creating healthy, empowering, and enriching brotherhood, sisterhood, and communities according to the highest ethical and social principles of Islam. Addressing a topic about which so many Muslims sloganize but few present useful solutions, this program will provide insight on what divides us and implementable guidance on how to genuinely bring the hearts of the Muslims together. A Practical Guide To Muslim Unity Sessions will cover:

The Social Contract of Islam (Duties of Brotherhood/Sisterhood)
The Etiquettes of Disagreement
Anti-Sectarian Thinking
The Prophetic Ethic of Tolerance
Also including special exercises, extensive Q&A, and much more.

Movie Review: V for Vendetta - Muslims Shipped To Internment Camps & Citizens Executed For Owning a Holy Qur'an 6/4/06 "The most daring film of the year… hands down. Forget Munich, forget Paradise Now." The Muslim Forum of Utah screened the movie V for Vendetta and found it to be worth seeing and of interest to Muslims and Non-Muslims alike, especially because it features a couple of scenarios that feature Muslims and Islamic themes. The film's story takes place roughly twenty years from now. Britain has transformed from monarchy to a 1984-styled Christian totalitarian regime led by Adam Sutler (John Hurt resembling Hitler). Society is ruled with an iron fist of fear. Art and self-expression are censored. Homosexuals, minorities, and Muslims are shipped off to internment camps. Nightly curfews are enforced by corrupt secret police. You could be executed for owning a Holy Qur'an. Even real butter is saved for the rich and elite. Visit the official Warner Bros. "V for Vendetta" homepage for more information: V for Vendetta

Sharif Omar: Alleged May Be Wrongly Accused of Financing Terrorism 6/1/06 "I walked into Wells Fargo Bank on 33rd South and State Street to deposit a check. While at the counter with the Teller, I was shocked to see Sharif Omar walk into the Bank. I did not want to bother the brother but decided to give the greetings anyway. He was happy that I recognized him and was relieved that I gave him the greetings. We have decided to post the MFU Press Release that was written at the request of our local Salt Lake City Weekly Newspaper." -Abdul Malik Muhammad Please download the MFU Press Release. Related to this case is the FBI Press Release that may give a better understanding of what Sharif Omar is being accused of. Also, related news featured in The Deseret News by our friend Ben Winslow may also be noteworthy. Some say If these charges are proven false and Sharif Omar was wrongly accused, it could lead to a lawsuit or even a class action lawsuit in which Sharif Omar may sue and be given compensation for damage done to the mental health and livelihood of his family, himself and those around him. In addition the damage done to his reputation and that of Muslims living in Salt Lake City, Utah. Some also say that organizations such as CAIR may step in and provide legal help and advice if necessary.

Alrasool Islamic Center Feast 6/1/06 Birthday of Syeda Zainab (as) will be observed at Alrasool Islamic Center on Thursday, June 1st after Maghrib Prayers. Please contact Br. Ghulam or call The Alrasool Islamic Center for more information: 470 Stanley Avenue (3180 South) Salt Lake City, UT 84115 - 801-467-3978

Utah Muslim Civil Servant 6/1/06 On behalf of the citizens of the State of Utah and the Muslim Forum of Utah, we would like to congratulate Abdul Malik Muhammad (MFU PR Dir.) on his recent appointment to Governor Huntsman's Black Advisory Council. Abdul Malik understands that he is a temporary custodian of the position of responsibility. With this service will come a strong sense of duty, obligation and integrity. Abdul Malik will be completing his 1st year appointment by County Mayor Peter Caroon to the Commission on Youth Board (COY) on June 30, 2006.(COY)

Alnoor & Khadeeja Mosque's Sunday School Students Graduation 5/27/06 Assalamu Alaikum...Students of the Sunday school's of both Noor and Khadeeja Masjids will be graduating next month and everyone is invited to take part! *Noor Masjid Graduation: When? *June 4th at 11:00am **Khadeeja Masjid Graduation:
When? **June 11th at 11:00am (During the Sunday school hours) Invitation is open to all community members and there's also going to be a BBQ at each graduation!

Alnoor Mosque Children’s’ Summer Camp 5/26/06 A seven week program full of Islamic learning & fun for kids Insha’Allah! (Quran, Fiqh, Tawheed, Seerah … plus … field trips to Hole Zoo, Children’s Museum, BBQs at the Canyons, University of Utah tour, community service activities and much more!) Download The Flyer>>>

Reinventing The Wheel 5/26/06 Something that has come to our attention is the popular emails we have recieved and the talks that people have had about the state of our community and the lack of infrastructure being built to educate Utah's Non-Muslim population about Islam and Muslims and help them get a better understanding of Islam from a truly American Muslim perspective. Of course by teaching Non-Muslims it is implied that it is also teaching Muslims themselves who are not aware of the wide spectrum of the Muslim community, which includes traditional Sunnis, Shias, and Sufis. For example, many Utah Muslims themselves don't know that Sunni Malekis and Shia Jafaris pray in a similar manner with their arms down at their sides instead of folded. Of course this lack of knowledge has to do with the fact that the majority of knowledge in the community has been taught by a few Salafi and Deobandi Muslims in the community that have a literalist interpretation of Islam, which is limited to one or two schools of thought out of the five major schools accepted by The Sunni Zaytuna Institute in Hayward, California, USA; The Sunni Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt; and The Shia Hawzah Ilmiyah in Qum, Iran. These five schools include of course the Hanafi, Maleki, Shafi'i, Hanbali, and Jafari schools of thought. The first four being Sunni, while the last is Shia. Unlike the rest of the Muslim organizations in Utah, The Muslim Forum of Utah is not exclusive, it is in fact all inclusive of the various Muslim community groups. Members of the MFU are of various schools of thought and ethnicities ranging from Sunni, Shia to Sufi Muslims. This of course is the greatest strength of the MFU. The MFU has been engaged in Education, Civil Rights, Social Work and Interfaith activities since March of 2003. There has been a newsletter (The Forum Monthly) published from March of 2003 until May of 2004, however due to the lack of community support it stopped in May of 2004. This lack of support that has been encouraged by specific sectors of the community has only made The Muslim Forum of Utah stronger with many more disenfranchised Muslim and Non-Muslim supporters and sponsors alhamdolillah. Our online weblog has taken the place of our printed newsletter, because it is available internationally. With our homepage getting over a few thousand hits a month, we have recieved emails and support from all over Utah, the nation and the world! If you would like to voice your muted opinion and join our team of Muslim Professionals, Academics & Community/Business Leaders; please email us at info@muslim-forum.org.

Islamic Society of Greater Salt Lake Re-Launches Al-Maghrib Newsletter 5/12/06 The ISGSL finally re-launched it's old Al-Maghrib Newsletter that featured information about the ISGSL. During the absence of the Al-Magrib Newsletter there were two other Muslim Community Newsletters launched, however due to the lack of community support and discouragement by certain individuals in the community, both newsletters stopped publishing. The two newsletters included The Muslim Forum of Utah's "Forum Monthly", who's editor was former MFU President Nadeem Tusneem and The Salt Lake American Muslim's "SLAM Newsletter", who's editor was SLAM Director Ghulam Hasnain (Founder of the annual SLAM Festival that is held on August 26th & 27th at the Salt Lake County Building). The MFU's "Forum Monthly" archives are available in our "Newsletter" page.

Kenyan Muslim Film Maker "Salim Amin" In Utah 5/10/06 The Muslim Forum of Utah attended Kenyan Muslim Film maker Salim Amin’s documentary screening followed by a discussion, hosted by The SLC Film Center. The SLC Film Center is proud to host Salim Amin, son of the legendary journalist, Mohammed Amin, and narrator of award winning Mo and Me. Salim will deliver remarks and hold an open discussion after the screening. Mo and Me is about Mohamed "Mo" Amin, the photojournalist whose TV footage first brought Ethiopia's 1984 famine to the world, launched Live Aid and We Are The World. It has been feted at film festivals in Los Angeles and Paris, and will premiere at the New York Film Festival on May 9th. Long acknowledged as Africa's greatest photographer-cameraman, Mohamed Amin photographed and filmed the major events of Africa, Asia and the Middle East from the 1950's until his untimely death. He was driven by a dream that Africans should tell their own stories. He wanted to portray not just Africa's pain, but its beauty and successes as well. His courage and drive in the face of extreme adversity are shown as he survives incarceration, torture and, later, amputation in his unrelenting quest to give voice to the voiceless. In 1996 he was aboard an Ethiopian aircraft that was hijacked by Muslim extremists, Mo died on his feet as he attempted to negotiate and reason with the terrorists. In 1997, the renowned international news bureau, Reuters, set up the Mohammed Amin Award in honor of Mo, to recognize outstanding contributions to TV news made by unsung heroes of journalism. This award has become one of the most prestigious in the industry. FREE ADMISSION - Westminster College - 7pm, Wed. May 10, 2006. Watch Video>>>

The Muslim Forum of Utah Radio Podcast 4/29/06 You can now listen to The Muslim Forum of Utah's Podcast by subscribing here: MFU RADIO RSS PODCAST FEED. Speeches, news and commentary of The Muslim Forum of Utah and other community members should be available in the coming months inshallah. Please stay tuned for more proactive American Muslim related education, civil rights, social work and interfaith related news and activities.

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday Brings Utah's Sunni, Shia, and Sufi Muslim Community Together 4/23/06 A packed theater of Utah's Sunni, Shia, and Sufi Muslims gathered at The University of Utah Post Theater on Sunday, April 16th to celebrate the Prophet Muhammad's (pbuh) Birthday by discussing his life and achievements as well as singing Nasheeds & Naats (Islamic Music) in his honor. "Naats and Nasheeds have been a part of the tradition of the Prophet (pbuh) since the beginning of Islam" said one of the speakers at the celebration. Please check out the highlights here as they are uploaded: Video 1 | Video 2 | Video 3 | Video 4 | Video 5 | Video 6 | Video 7 | Video 8

Khadeeja Islamic Center Sirah Program (Prophet Muhammad's Biography) 4/10/06 Some Muslims (who follow the Deobandi and/or Salafi interpretations of Islam) do not celebrate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and instead choose to review his biography as an alternative. The traditional Sunni, Shia, and Sufi community does tend to celebrate the Prophet's Birthday, which is called "Milad Un-Nabi". You can look at pictures and listen to mp3 audios from this note worthy event. Audio & Picture Gallery>>>

A Round Table Discussion With 16 Foreign Journalists, Participants of The U.S. Department of State Edward R. Murrow Program for Journalists 4/20/06 'How are America and Americans perceived abroad? What is the role that journalists can play in expanding mutual awareness and understanding between nations? How do the media shape public opinion at home and abroad? ". On Tuesday, April 18th at The University of Utah, The Muslim Forum of Utah heard first hand from 16 leading journalists from the Near East and Europe about their views regarding the United States, our people and our media. Learning about their perspectives on how are perceptions or misperceptions shaped about the region and the people from the Middle East and the Muslim World. Observing first hand what role journalists can play in expanding mutual awareness and understanding between the nations. Distinguished panelists that were invited: Mr. Geoff Fattah, journalist Deseret Morning News. Ms. Keri Wilcox, Executive Producer KSL TV. Mr. Larry Smith General Manager KUED 7 TV. Mr. John Greene, General Manager KUER Radio. Stay tuned for video footage!

Leading To Read 4/17/06 (SLC,UT) The Muslim Forum of Utah is inviting any members of the community to participate in this year's "Leading To Read" program. The Office of Ethnic Affairs, Rose Park Elementary & University of Utah David Eccles School of Business are excited to offer the “Leading to Read” program. The program includes a FREE mini-literacy backpack to children who qualify, emergent literacy training for parents, and story time, & one scholastic book Date: Wednesday, April 26, 2006 Time: 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Reading sessions begin every 30 min.) Download Flyer>>>

Leena Omar Ahmed Saif Passes Away In Car Accident 4/16/06 (SLC,UT) It is with great sorrow that we learned today that Sr. Leena, who is the sister of Sr. Dana has died early this morning in a severe car accident. Words are insufficient to express the MSA members' sorrow about this loss. "Those who met Leena know how kind and religious she was, may Allah grant her paradise. May Allah give her family, relatives, and friends patience to overcome this crisis.