MuslimFest is a joint initiative of tree organizations – Dawa Net, Sound Vision Canada and Young Muslims Canada. In 2004, they brought together a team of professionals, leaders, entrepreneurs, activists, and volunteers to create Canada’s first festival designed to celebrate the best in Muslim art, culture and entertainment.
The team that produces MuslimFest includes specialists in various fields such as media, marketing, television, radio, writing, web development, event planning, project management, sales, visual arts, theater, academic research, law, medicine, engineering, etc. They work together to create an event that would break through cultural barriers and provide Muslim youth with opportunities to showcase their culture and traditions.
One of the main goals of MuslimFest is to restore the positive image of the Muslim community damaged by the 9/11 attacks and other Islamist terrorist attacks. Its organizers strive to demonstrate that not all Muslims are extremists, most of them just want to live a peaceful life in the country that they consider their home. What they need is their culture and traditions be respected in the same way as they respect the culture and traditions of the country they live in. The team of MuslimFest believes that education through art helps to break down the barriers between different cultures and achieve mutual understanding and respect.
MuslimFest is held at the Mississauga Celebration Square. It showcases Muslim artists, musicians and comedians. The festival program includes Muslim musicians, spoken word artists, nasheed artists, stand-up comedy, art exhibitions, fashion shows, film screenings, puppet shows, variety shows, educational workshops, special events for women and children, a food festival, and an international bazaar. The festival hosts more than 30 established and up-and-coming Muslim artists every year.
Photo: muslimfest.com
