Last week I reflected upon a presentation that failed the promise it pretended. This presentation was expected to add information that balanced the fearful angry ignorance I so often hear expressed about Islam and it’s adherents, yet it achieved not much at all.

I decided then that this opportunity must be readdressed. Without a deeper understanding of Islam we risk remaining in a parochial paddock, at best appearing foolish and at worst inviting unhealthy conflict.

To this end I have organised a new presentation that will respond to the following questions.

• What does the Islamic religion stand for?
• How does Islam connect harmoniously with both Christianity and our secular democracy?

To achieve this positive outcome I am proud and excited to offer three outstanding and inspirational Australians to share their vision and experience, and to engage directly with the audience.

One is a Woman called Silma Ihram. Ms Ihram was raised in the Northern Beaches and was a committed Christian until she converted to Islam. Throughout her life she has acted tenaciously according to her principles, achieving much as a teacher, author and community leader. In 2002 she was recognised with a centenary medal, in 2005 she was named Muslim Woman of the year. She continues to hold executive roles in a range of significant Islamic Organisations.

Another presenter is the Reverend David Millikan, until recently a Uniting Church minister in Dee Why. Rev. Millikan is an author, documentary filmmaker and TV producer with a heart and humour as big as a bus. He is also a University lecturer on subjects associated with religiosity.

The final speaker is Kuranda Seyit. Mr Seyit was at one time a NSW police officer. Now he is a journalist, documentary maker and poet. He is also the founder of the Forum on Australia’s Islamic Relations, and in 2002 was selected by the bulletin magazine for their SMART 100 special edition. In 2006 he founded the Academy of Islamic Sciences. His stated goal is to create more peace in the world.

I invite each of you to attend and enjoy this free forum. If you think you know about Islam I challenge you to come along and find out more!

Date: Saturday 12^th July 2008

Time: 7.30PM til 9.30 PM

Venue: Manly Community Centre, 12 Wentworth St Manly

Martin Hunter Jones is an honorary life member of the Australian Counselling Association. He has a Counselling and Hypnotherapy practice on the Northern Beaches. For appointments call 9973 4997.