Muslims plan Islam discussion in Grayslake

What's billed as the oldest Muslim-American organization in the United States plans to host a discussion Saturday in an effort to answer questions and provide information about Islam.

Set for 2 p.m. at the Grayslake Public Library, the gathering will be a continuation of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community of Lake County's local tour. The campaign is called “Muslims for Peace.”

Group members will be at the library, located at 100 Library Lane, with the hope of answering questions to dispel what event organizers say is the perception that violent acts are an inherent part of the Islamic faith. Refreshments will be served at the free program.

“It's basically just a community conversation that we'll frame it as,” said Junayad Latif, community outreach coordinator for Ahmadiyya Muslim Community of Lake County, a branch of the nationwide group.

In November, the organization launched the tour in Waukegan by placing signs on a passenger van with the motto: “Love for all. Hatred for none.” More than 500 fliers with the slogan were distributed at public places in the city.

Grayslake Public Library Director Roberta Thomas said the meeting room is rented to nonprofit, cultural or civic organizations. She said it's not common for religious groups to rent library space, and it'll be the Muslim's group's first time there.

Thomas said while library officials cannot restrict the content of events in the taxpayer-supported meeting room, political gatherings for candidates or issues are not allowed.

Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is considered a growing worldwide movement within Islam, and has been in the United States since 1920. Roughly 200 members are reported in the Lake County chapter, headquartered in Zion.

Plans are for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community to visit other Lake County libraries. Latif said libraries are desirable because there are low or no rental fees for space, and are neutral venues likely to attract visitors seeking education.

“Actually, what we're trying to do is fight terrorism,” Latif said.