(Philadelphia, 6/19/07) – The Council on American-Islamic Relations-Pennsylvania (CAIR-PA) will collaborate on a new mural presented by the Philadelphia Mural Arts Program. This Saturday, June 23, twenty Muslim students from the Philadelphia area will help paint the new mural that recognizes diversity in faith including but not limited to Christianity, Judaism and Islam. The Mural Art program requested the recommendation and guidance of various religious organizations including CAIR to help develop the mural design and to recruit volunteers.
The group along with residents in the community will paint the west side of the Sunshine Food Market, 4261 Lancaster Avenue, 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. Muralist Delia King will work with volunteers on the mural, which uses symbolism to explore interfaith issues and cultural heritage in a post-9-11 society. Supplies, music and refreshments will be provided to ensure an enjoyable experience by all.
“CAIR is very excited about the new mural and working with the Mural Art Program. It’s a great opportunity for both Muslim and non-Muslim youth, to express themselves artistically and get involved in their communities,” says Aliya Z. Khabir, CAIR PA Board member and representative on the project. “It’s a great way to focus on just how much we all have in common instead of emphasizing our religious differences. It opens the door to mutual understanding.”
For more information please call Emily Squires at 215-685-0752.
The Philadelphia Mural Arts Program (MAP) started in 1984 as a component of the Anti-Graffiti Network (PAGN), a city-wide initiative to eradicate destructive graffiti and address neighborhood blight. The Mural Arts Program has produced over 2,700 murals throughout Philadelphia — more murals than any other city in the world. MAP’s community murals department works with more than 100 communities each year to create murals that reflect the culture of Philadelphia’s neighborhoods.
CAIR, America’s largest Islamic civil liberties group, has 32 offices and chapters nationwide and in Canada. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.
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