PII Talks: Muslim Heritage Month with Dr. Vincent Parrillo “Muslims in America” – CJCC

On January 25, 2025, Peace Islands Institute hosted an inspiring PII Talks event titled “Muslims in America.” The evening began with a light dinner, fostering a welcoming environment for attendees to connect. The keynote speaker, Professor Dr. Vincent Parrillo, a renowned sociologist, delivered an impactful presentation shedding light on the experiences and history of the Muslim community in the United States.

Dr. Parrillo explored the stories of the first Muslims brought to the U.S., shared the staggering statistic that over half of Americans have never encountered a Muslim in person, and emphasized the importance of interfaith and intercultural interactions to break down biases. He also delved into ethnogenesis, explaining how American society evolves while preserving cultural roots and values, and highlighted the U.S. as a diverse melting pot where various cultures, faiths, and ethnicities come together.

The session concluded with an engaging Q&A segment, where attendees had the opportunity to ask insightful questions. The night ended on a high note with a Kahoot trivia game, testing participants’ newfound knowledge in a fun and interactive way.

PII Talks is a signature platform of Peace Islands Institute, designed to spark thought-provoking discussions, share diverse perspectives, and foster a culture of dialogue, friendship, and societal harmony. These events bring together inspiring speakers and engaged audiences to explore meaningful topics that promote understanding and mutual respect. Join us as we continue to build bridges and nurture connections through dialogue!