Arabic professor gives students introduction to Islam

Sebastian Maisel kicked off the first Islamic Awareness Week with a presentation, "Islam 101," on February 15 in the Kirkhof Center. The event, which was hosted by the Muslim Student Association, was the first of a week-long series of events to raise awareness of Muslim culture on the Allendale Campus. 

Maisel, assistant professor of Modern Languages and Literatures, and an Arabic language and culture professor in the College of Interdisciplinary Studies, discussed the different aspects of Islam such as religion, politics and culture. 

"Muslims come from many different locations, have many different opinions, and are many different ethnicities," said Maisel. "However, Muslims are unified by one common profession of faith: love one God and love your neighbor."

Maisel's discussion sparked several controversial questions from students and faculty about the recent news events occurring in the Middle East. 

"The general tone in the media tries to demonize Islam and gives us a very negative view of the culture. We very rarely hear about the majority of positive aspects of Islam," said Maisel. "It is hard to find other voices in this context that focus on dialogue between cultures."

Other events during the week included a performance from a comedy troupe and a student panel.