Media Release

Friday, 6 September 2002

Christian-Muslim Reconciliation in Australia
6pm Friday, September 6
Union Hall
University of Adelaide, North Terrace Campus

With the first anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks rapidly approaching, the University of Adelaide's Islamic Students' Society has organised an open public forum.

As well as fostering open public discussion, the event will also feature four key speakers:

Dr Arthur Saniotis Reconciliation among Muslims and Christians in Australia, some practical steps
Dr Abul Farouque The history of Muslims in Australia
Imran Lum What Muslims say about Christians
Anisa Buckley Women in Islam and in Christianity

"The forum is being held in order to help educate people about Islam and Muslims, and to reduce misconceptions in the community," says University of Adelaide anthropologist Dr Arthur Saniotis.

"The events of September 11, 2001 have once again brought home the need for Muslim/Christian reconciliation and promoting mutual understanding and social peace. This is crucial for both communities," he says.

"While the aims and objectives of the forum are to promote mutual understanding between Australian Muslims and Christians, we invite all members of the public to attend the event, as the themes of the forum relate to issues that are important for Australians from all religious and ideological persuasions."

Among those attending the event are Human Rights Commissioner Linda Matthews, South Australian Attorney-General Michael Atkinson, and the Deputy Lord Mayor of Adelaide, Bruno Ventura.