ISD 279 - Osseo Area Schools Community Education

Explore the similarities and differences between Islam and Christianity, including basic beliefs and practices in the context of both belief systems. Discuss how Muslims view God, Mary, and Jesus as well as verses from the Quran that are equivalent to the Ten Commandments. The focus is on the similarities of both faiths and opportunities in pursuing joint Muslim/Christian projects. Attendance at the introductory class What You Always Wanted to Know about Islam and Muslims is a good background, but not required.

Historical records show a Muslim presence in MN that goes as far back as 1880. Current estimates put the Muslim population in MN at about 140,000. This class is based on the exhibit Tracks in the Snow: The Minnesota Muslim Experience since 1880 which Islamic Resource Group put together with support from the Minnesota Historical Society in 2014. You'll get an exclusive insight into the lives and experiences of MN Muslims from different cultural backgrounds and their pioneering work.

This powerful presentation describes the earliest Muslims in this country, namely enslaved West Africans. It features stories and experiences of individual enslaved Muslims, including “Prince”, who is featured in a PBS documentary called “Prince Among Slaves” which was aired in 2007. It also chronicles the development of conversion movements in the African American community, and the impact of West African Muslim culture on the U.S. The presentation also traces the presence of Arab and other immigrant Muslims from pre-Columbus times.

Do you want to discover more about Islam and Muslims? Develop a better understanding of what Islam teaches and what Muslims practice. Learn basic terminology, demographics and differences between religion and culture as well as the beliefs, practices and religious celebrations of Muslims. You’ll also have the opportunity to get your questions answered first-hand.

Uncover the different roles of Muslim women in society, including cultural differences. Learn about common misconceptions regarding Muslim women as well as gender equity in the spiritual, social, and economic aspects of life. Muslim women and cultural diversity will also be discussed. Class concludes with examples of Muslim women and their role in history and today.