22 January 2008

Mormons & Muslims unite at UCLA


A recent public dialogue was held on the campus of the University of
California Los Angeles (UCLA). The November 29, 2007, dialogue was organized by local
Muslim & LDS students and scholars.  
The event was entitled "Mormons, Muslims, and the Media." Many Muslims and Mormons came from across Los Angeles County to attend the discussion.  It was a remarkable event that intensified the friendship between the Islamic and Mormon groups in Southern California.
At the event, we enjoyed a stimulating discussion of Mormonism, Islam and the media's role y in informing public udnerstanding of these two dynamic faith groups.  

The panelists included:
  • Dr. Claudia Bushman, Columbia University (visiting scholar at the Huntington Library in Pasadena, California), Author of Contemporary Mormonism
  • Mr. David Haldant, The Los Angeles Times, reporter on Mormon & Muslim communities in Southern California
  • Dr. Amir Hussain, Loyala Marymount Univ., Author of Oil & Water: Two Faiths, One God
  • Moderator: Dr. Karen Torjesen, Dean of the School of Religion at Claremont Graduate University
This event was a great opportunity for all to interact, learn, reach out, and understand each other's religion, culture, and (mis)representations in the media.  Thanks to all who organized the event.

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