The Muslim Community in Queens held an interfaith event in Jamaica Estates, to talk about how to end religious extremism. NY1's Natalie Duddridge reports.
Religious and community leaders from a range of faiths gathered at the Ahmadiyya Mosque Bait Uz Zafar in Jamaica Estates, to try to change the narrative about Islam and erase extremism.
Certain people who are carrying out terrorist activities in the name of Islam, it disturbs because Islam is for Peace, says Imam, Daud Hanif at Bait Uz Zafar.
To set the record straight, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA, the nations’ largest Muslim organization, launched a campaign called "True Islam, and the Extremists." In the past month, the campaign has garnered support from over 2500 Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
"We have rabbis, we have ministers we have Imams,” said councilman Barry Grodenchik.
The community says in the wake of recent devastating terrorist attacks, they heard President Obama’s call to work together to spot radicalization early, and change the headlines.
"Many terrorists have been distorting what is Islam stands for, and most Muslims are peaceful loving individuals,” said Assemblyman, David Weprin.
The campaign also has a rapidly growing social media presence to take the battle against extremists online, and to engage kids and young adults.
"If the foundation is strong then when they're in their 20s and they're teenagers they will not go off the cliff in that sense,” said secretary at the Mosque, Asas Bhawa.
The campaign also focuses on teaching what religious leaders say are the 11 fundamental principles of True Islam. Members from other faiths say it's also up to them to open their minds.
"It's important to involve yourself in interfaith activities so that you go from being strangers to neighbors."
Religious leaders say they also started a Youth Group, and that this meeting is the first of "many more" conversations to come.