An example being: there are both Christian and Muslim groups in Sydney that have put up billboards around prominent areas for each faith. Here are the two that I've seen around:
And then this one from the Muslim group, mypeace:
To be honest, I think they're really innovative - I do think it promotes dialogue and discussion, and some people will NOT take something in unless it's right up there in their face (or rather, windscreen?)
The group mypeace have now made a beautiful commercial for TV:
And a Muslim wrote a piece about that recently in a major news site, which basically went more in depth as to the reasons why they decided to take this route to increase awareness about Islam and its true values. However, all through the comments section, you see person after person saying that Aussie Muslims are not doing enough and of course you have this horrible image of us because we don't do anything to discourage bad perceptions and extremism in our communities.
Honestly - paying thousands for huge billboards and TV commercials in primetime slots is not enough? Initiating hundreds of programs of dialogue and discussion for youth and those deemed "at risk" for extremist beliefs is not enough? I think in this case, it is what it is. Islam in Australia is present and does make an impact on society, and to say that the efforts made is not enough... to me that just screams of a person that wouldn't be willing to accept anyone different, let alone a Muslim. So I guess that's just something that I think about sometimes, that unfortunately there are going to be people that will not accept you or your actions, no matter what you do. But that in itself shows the wisdom of Allah subhana wa ta'ala, given that He does say in our Qur'an, there are people whose hearts are sealed.
1 comments:
Assalamu alaikum sister.
This is one of your best posts i ever read.
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