Bushra Benazeer-Schierenberg, Secretary Tabligh, Lajna Imaillah London South, Ontario, Canada
On 20 September 2023, Lajna Imaillah London South, in Ontario, Canada, celebrated the International Day of Peace by bringing women from diverse backgrounds together to promote harmony and understanding. The event, held at the Jalna Library meeting room drew over 35 visitors, including representatives from the police department and city councillors.
One of the highlights of the event was the Quran exhibition, where the Holy Quran was displayed with translations in over 30 languages. This exhibition showcased the universal message of the Holy Quran, emphasising that its teachings are accessible to people from all walks of life and backgrounds. Several attendees expressed their astonishment and appreciation for seeing the Holy Quran translated into such a diverse range of languages. Some even requested copies of the Holy Quran in their native languages, highlighting the importance of making religious texts accessible to all.
In addition to the Quran exhibition, the event featured Pathway to Peace banners, conveying the message that Islam is firmly against war and terrorism. These banners served as a reminder of the peaceful teachings of Islam and aimed to dispel misconceptions about the faith.
Guests also had the opportunity to explore an Arabic calligraphy booth, where they could try their hand at this beautiful art form, further promoting cultural understanding and appreciation.
The event featured peace merchandise, including pens and badges with the iconic “Love for All, Hatred for None” logo, symbolising the Community’s commitment to love, tolerance, and peace.
One visitor commended the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community for holding a peace exhibition on a day when other parts of the city were experiencing protests. This decision to promote peace and understanding during challenging times was particularly appreciated. The event was not only well-received by attendees but also resulted in an invitation for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community to attend an interfaith symposium, demonstrating the positive impact of their efforts to foster dialogue and cooperation among different religious groups.