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The Art of Integration: Muslims in Britain

06 October 2010

The important contribution that Muslims have made to Britain’s rich cultural diversity is to be celebrated in an event at Cardiff University.

On Saturday 9 October 2010, the University’s Centre for the Study of Islam in the UK in association with the Muslim Council of Wales will host a photo-lecture by the award-winning photographer Peter Sanders on the theme ‘The Art of Integration: Islam in our Green and Pleasant Land’.

Exhibited in more than 30 countries around the world, Peter’s photographic essay poetically documents Muslim life in the United Kingdom, capturing a snapshot of the ways that Muslims have enriched the country’s intellectual and cultural landscape.

Alongside the exhibition, Dr Sophie Gilliat-Ray of the Centre, a leading authority in Religious and Theological Studies, will launch her new book Muslims in Britain: an Introduction, recently published by Cambridge University Press.

Tracing the major points of encounter between Muslims and the British, Muslims in Britain sheds fresh light on contemporary issues such as the nature of religious authority and representation.

Speaking about the event, Dr Gilliat-Ray said: "This event represents a wonderful opportunity for people to see the positive and enduring contribution Muslims living in Britain have made and continue to make to our society as a whole. Guests will also have a chance to see some of the groundbreaking research which is leading to a clearer understanding of the lives of Muslims in Britain."

The event will be introduced by Saleem Kidwi OBE General Secretary of the Muslim Council of Wales and the guest speaker will be Dr Abdalla Yassin Mohamed OBE, Director of the Islamic Social Support Association Wales.

Signed copies of Dr Gilliat-Ray’s book, as well as Peter’s book The Art of Integration will be available to buy and there will also be an exhibition of recent and current research projects at the Islam-UK Centre, along with stalls by local Muslim organisations.

The event is free and open to members of the public – anyone wanting to attend should register by emailing events-islamcentre@cardiff.ac.uk .

-ENDS-

Notes to editors

1. Cardiff University
Cardiff University is recognised in independent government assessments as one of Britain’s leading teaching and research universities and is a member of the Russell Group of the UK’s most research intensive universities. Among its academic staff are two Nobel Laureates, including the winner of the 2007 Nobel Prize for Medicine, Professor Sir Martin Evans.

Founded by Royal Charter in 1883, today the University combines impressive modern facilities and a dynamic approach to teaching and research. The University’s breadth of expertise in research and research-led teaching encompasses: the humanities; the natural, physical, health, life and social sciences; engineering and technology; preparation for a wide range of professions; and a longstanding commitment to lifelong learning.

Visit the University website at: www.cardiff.ac.uk

2. For further information
Victoria Dando
Public Relations
Cardiff University
Tel: 02920 879074
Email: DandoV2@cardiff.ac.uk