The Prince George Islamic Centre recently hosted an open house to welcome the community and dispel misconceptions about Islam.
“It’s important because there’s a lot of perceptions of Islam that are out in the community that aren’t represented by who we really are,” said Nadia Mansour, a longtime member who has practiced her faith at the Centre since its opening in 2011, CKPG Today reported.
“When we open up our doors to the community and we have people come in, we get to invite people to our faith and show them what we’re really about.”
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Since its establishment 13 years ago, the Islamic Centre has played a significant role in attracting Muslims to Prince George. The presence of a mosque has become a key factor for many considering relocation.
“We are seeing a substantial increase in the number of [Muslim] people coming to this city, and whenever they find a job, the first question they ask the employer is, is there any mosque there because they need that,” said Siraj Ul Islam, the Centre’s secretary.
Beyond providing a place of worship, the Centre serves as a hub for the Muslim community, fostering a sense of belonging and connection. For many, it offers a feeling of home in a new city.
“As soon as I got to know there’s an Islamic Centre, I was quite happy, and when I came here, it was instant,” shared Umair Haroon, a member since last year.
“The first day I was able to meet with a lot of friends who could relate. Since then, there’s a feeling of home, and I have friends that I feel like I’ve known for years because of this Islamic Centre.”
Building Bridges
The open house aimed to build bridges with the wider community, offering a chance to learn about Islam in an open and welcoming environment. The event provided an opportunity for dialogue, with attendees able to observe Islamic practices and ask questions to better understand the faith. It was a step towards fostering mutual respect and breaking down stereotypes.
The Centre continues to be a vital resource for Muslims in Prince George, supporting both spiritual and social needs. It not only helps newcomers integrate into the community but also ensures that long-term residents maintain a strong connection to their faith. As the local Muslim population grows, the Centre’s role as a cultural and religious cornerstone becomes increasingly important.
By opening its doors to the public, the Prince George Islamic Centre hopes to promote understanding and demonstrate the true essence of Islam—a faith centered on peace, compassion, and community.