ILLINOIS – Muslims in Libertyville, Illinois, will open the doors of their local to welcome neighbors of all faiths and groups, in an effort to connect with the community and dispel myths about their faith.

“People have questions. We see that as a good opportunity for neighbors to come and find out what we’re about,” Dr. Amin Nadeem, chairman of the Islamic Foundation North’s civic engagement committee, told Daily Herald on Friday, September 23.

“Keep in mind, we are a minority in this country. Most people don’t know much about the Muslim faith.”

Operating in Lake County since 2004, the foundation hosts an open house from 3 to 5 pm as one of its programs designed to connect with the community.

Preparing for the event, about 3,500 postcards have been sent to residents within several miles of the location to generate interest in the second annual event.

According to Dr. Nadeem, about 50 neighbors attended last year’s event.

The event is not the only effort led by the area Muslims to reach out to the community.

On a regional level, Open Mosque Day on Oct. 16 will include several participating institutions in Chicago and suburbs, according to Walid Muhammad Sankari, programs coordinator for the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago.

It will be the second year for the outreach initiative, he added.

“Mostly this entails touring the mosque itself, observing Muslims at worship, breaking bread with members of the congregation, and ask questions about Islam,” Sankari said.

“We encourage people to come and build relationships. Most people have more questions than answers,” he added.

The event is expected to dispel the community’s myths on Shari`ah law and women in Islam.

Visitors can tour the mosque, observe prayers and engage in a question-and-answer session. Literature, books and ethnic food will be provided.

Nadeem said events related to extremists, such as the recent bombings in the New York area, are troubling to most Muslims.

“We also are in conflict with them with the rest of Americans,” he said.

“We’re lucky to be part of this great country,” Nadeem added. “You won’t find anyone in the foundation who thinks otherwise.”

The foundation, which is comprised of about 2,500 Muslims, long has had various outreach programs with other faiths and organizations.

“This foundation has a large population of really educated people,” Nadeem said.

“Maybe it will help change opinion or steer the dialogue.”