About 700 people gathered at the Civic Center to hear business and civic leaders attempt to overturn stereotypes and fears about Muslims and the Islamic faith Monday night.
The event "Peace for Peoria" was created to bring people of diverse faiths together to unravel some of the questions surrounding Islam. The local star-studded cast of speakers included Caterpillar CEO Doug Oberhelman, Bradley University President Gary Roberts, and presidents of the two major hospital systems.
A five member discussion panel included Imam Kamil Mufti. Rabbi Daniel Bogard followed up on a question about violent acts depicted in the Qur’an, noting similar themes in the Torah and the Bible.
“There’s violence done by Jews in the name of Judaism," Bogard said. "There’s violence done by Christians in the name of Christianity and yet for some reason we’re painting all Muslims with the brush of the extremists.”
Reverend Stephen McKinney-Whitaker closed the event talking about the importance of sharing and listening:
“We can make Peoria an even better city by continuing to listen and have these kind of conversations," McKinney-Whitaker said. "So keep asking the tough questions. Just ask in a respectful loving way and invite that dialogue.”
Questions for the event were submitted online at the Peace for Peoria website.
The Peace for Peoria event ended with refreshments and conversation encouraged between those who attended.