Chicago Muslims to Build Minaret Display
Chicago Muslims plan to mark the current holy month of Ramadan by building a minaret display at Daley Plaza in early December, joining Christians and Jews as they decorate the public square for their holidays.
The Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago has preliminary approval to build a 30-foot reproduction of the tower used to call Muslims to prayer and an illuminated crescent moon affixed to a dome. The display will stand alongside a Hanukkah menorah and Christmas manger scene.
“There was a need to give equal representation to the three Abrahamic religions,” said Kareem Irfan, the council chairman.
The council, an umbrella group for 40 mosques, schools and community centers, approached the city with the idea about a year ago. Since the Sept. 11 attacks, Muslims feel especially compelled to send a message of inclusion in America, said Sabri Samirah, director of the United Muslim Americans Assn.
Samirah said the only major U.S. cities with such an Islamic display are New York and Washington.
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