‘We are more similar than we are different:’ Norwich mosque opens its doors for exhibition

Mr Islam hopes the open day will foster a conversation between people of different faiths. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Archant)

The mosque, officially known as the East Anglian Bangladeshi Islamic Centre, is hoping to bring members of the community together from different backgrounds to have an open dialogue about Islam. The event will feature exhibitions, Q and As, guided tours of the mosque, literature stalls and refreshments.

'We want to build a relationship with other communities. We need to integrate and close the gap with other faiths but still be able to keep our identity,' Sirajul Islam, general secretary at the mosque, said.

'My family and I spend most of our time with English people and it is always good when they are curious or ask questions. We're not that much different than other religions, like Christianity; we are more similar than we are different,' he said.

Mr Islam also hopes the open day will dispel some negative misconceptions about his faith.

'Humanity is the main point of our religion. In the Quran it says killing one person is equal to killing humanity, so using this religion for other things is twisting the tongue.

'But you have to accept reality - you can't blame people for what they think. Most people are very accepting in this country.

'How can you blame some of them for not understanding? They don't have any knowledge about the religion. The messenger came to let people know who he was, so if we don't open our doors, how will they know?' he said.

The event will be from 11am to 3pm. No booking is required.