By Erica Solvig
The Cincinnati Enquirer

WEST CHESTER TWP. - Cincinnati's Muslim community is hoping a new documentary filmed here will dispel myths and misconceptions about Islam.

The 40-minute film - A Visit to a Mosque in America: Understanding Islam and the American Muslim Community - debuted Sunday afternoon to a nearly 300-person audience, including U.S. Rep. Rob Portman, at the Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati.

Washington, D.C.-based Astrolabe Pictures shot the production, as well as a 15-minute feature titled The Art of a Mosque, at the center last summer

"It's not just about the center in Cincinnati, but about Muslims across the country," said Danya Karram, who is on the center's board. "It has a universal message. It talks about the commonalities of all people."

BUY THE VIDEO

To purchase a copy of the video, contact the Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati at 755-3280 or Astrolabe at 1-800-392-7876.

The film includes testimonials from members, who discuss topics ranging from the importance of prayer to post- Sept. 11 fears to how women are viewed. The video also gives audiences a tour of the center's mosque, academy and community center.

"I think Islam is one of the least understood religions in the United States," said Derek vanAmerongen of Evendale.

The Catholic father of three has Muslim neighbors and was featured in the video.

"There's lots and lots for people to learn about," Mr. vanAmerongen said. "I hope it reaches the people it needs to."

Many of the center's 200 families purchased the video as part of the outreach sponsor program. The copies they buy will be distributed to churches, synagogues, public libraries, schools and other agencies in an effort to educate the public.

Jamal and Iman Rashed of Anderson Township, who are among the estimated 10,000 to 15,000 Greater Cincinnati Muslims, brought their children - 11-year-old Sarah and 14-year-old Zaid - to see the film. The family hoped schools across the country would use the film as an educational tool.

"This will help bridge the gap (between religions)," the 45-year-old father said. "I think it will help change the misconceptions. ... We're all neighbors"

E-mail esolvig@enquirer.com