World Bulletin / News Desk

The IGMG - a grassroots community organisation with branches are the world are currently holiding its second annual "Hello, I am a Muslim." campaign. For the second year in a row on March 12, 2016, thousands of Muslims in Europe and Australia have aimed to break down barries with the public by holding meetings points for people to come and discuss Islam. The event is being attend by thousands in Europe and Australia in an effort to breakdown the prejudice and stereotypes of Muslims.

"Studies have shown that where there is no personal contact with Muslims takes place, the fear of Islam is the greatest and Muslims in those areas are under the threat," says Kadir Arslan, General Secretary for IGMG.

"As IGMG we want to counteract this negative development and a positive contribution to society, "said Arslan. "In Austria we have street meeting points in Gmunden, Wels, Linz, Steyr, Perg and of course in Vöcklabruck on the town square, we want to make the most natural way to promote a postive encounter between Muslims and non-Muslims. The aim is to for citizens to approach any street metting point with their questions about Islam and Muslims to answer and to remove any possible prejudice. In return, we thank those who visit with a rose and a traditional Turkish sesame bagel.

For us its important to counter the effects of Islamophobia through discussion. Last year we had more than 100 meetings points in various locations in Europe with more than a 1000 Muslim volunteers resulting in a face to face meeting of more than 61,000 people. This year, we have more than 150 locations in 8 different locations".

Follow the campaign at #HelloIamaMuslim