An adult community education course called “Know Your Muslim Neighbor” in the Anoka-Hennepin School District is drawing questions from one resident who says the district is promoting one religion while ignoring others.
“I see you are offering a class called ‘Know your Muslim neighbor,’” one resident wrote in an email to district staff, which was shared with Alpha News. “I am wondering if you can have equal representation and offer a class to ‘Know your Christian neighbor, know your Buddhist neighbor, know your Jewish neighbor’?”
The resident did not take issue with the class itself, but instead was concerned by the lack of comparable offerings for other religious traditions.
“There are many stereotypes and misconceptions regarding Christians, Buddhists, and Jewish [people] as well,” the email continued. “Only offering one option to learn about a religion is biased.”
The class is slated for October 23 and is hosted by Building Blocks of Islam, a nonprofit whose mission is to help Muslims “practically apply Islamic principles” and build bridges with other communities.
Described as a “lively discussion” where attendees can learn about the articles of faith, rituals, and daily practices of Islam, the class bills itself as a “safe space” where attendees can ask questions.
“We look forward to seeing you in our journey to break through any stereotypes and misconceptions about each other and build a stronger community together,” reads a description of the class.
Alpha News reached out to Anoka-Hennepin Community Education for this story.
A district spokesperson responded, saying: “School districts are responsive to the communities they serve and the courses offered through community education are provided in response to community interest and demand. Adult community education is primarily supported by user fees and not taxpayers.”
“Should a resident have questions or have a desire to add programming they are encouraged to contact Anoka-Hennepin Community Education directly,” added the spokesperson.
Anoka-Hennepin Community Education has offered similar “Know Your Muslim Neighbor” courses in the past.
Jenna Gloeb
Jenna Gloeb is an Edward R. Murrow Award-winning journalist, media producer, public speaker, and screenwriter. Most recently, she worked as a reporter and on-air host for CCX Media. Jenna is a Minnesota native and resides in the Twin Cities with her husband, son, daughter, and two dogs.
