On April 13, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, in partnership with the Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati (ICGC), will host From Fear to Freedom: Confronting Islamophobia – a community conversation exploring the fear and prejudice against the religion of Islam and how communities can work collaboratively to shape a more inclusive society. The public conversation will begin at 7 p.m.

Confronting Islamophobia will be moderated by Dr. James Buchanan with the Edward B. Brueggeman Center for Dialogue at Xavier University and feature a diverse group of scholars and thought leaders who will define and expound upon the issues we currently face when discussing Islam in the community and as it’s presented in the media. Panelists include Dr. Amina Darwish of University of Cincinnati, Dr. Anas B. Malik of Xaiver University, Dr. Saba Chughtai with Muslim Mothers Against Violence, Dr. Baher Foad with the Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati and Iman Ilyas Nashid with the Cincinnati Islamic Center.

Islamophobia is defined as the exaggerated fear, hatred and hostility toward Islam and Muslims that is perpetuated by negative stereotypes resulting in bias, discrimination and the marginalization and exclusion of Muslims from social, political and civic life.

“From Fear to Freedom: Confronting Islamophobia is a timely conversation for our community at large,” says Dr. Michael Battle, executive vice president and provost of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. “The topic of inclusivity and religion, especially in regard to Islam, is an ongoing point of discourse in the current election cycle, both local and national. It is vital to understand how our communities can come together to stand up against prejudice and fear mongering.”

“There is a need more than ever in this volatile and political climate to define and address the issue of Islamophobia,” says Shabana Shakir-Ahmed, ICGC Tours & Talks Chair. “We welcome the community to learn about the prejudice and discrimination against Islam and Muslims here in America and the underlying challenges that Muslims face.”

From Fear to Freedom: Confronting Islamophobia begins April 13 at 7 p.m. at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and is free and open to the public. For information and to RSVP, visit freedomcenter.org.

Thank you to our community partners: Cincinnati Human Relations Commission, YWCA Greater Cincinnati and Xavier University.