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Philadelphia Muslim Community Gears Up For The Democratic National Convention

 

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Philadelphia's Muslim American Host Committee is gearing up to welcome hundreds of Muslim delegates during the Democratic National Convention.

US is home to more than 3 million Muslim, with a quarter of a million living right here in Philadelphia. Salima Suswell is Chair of the Muslim American Host Committee and said engagement is important.

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Salima Suswell at KYW Newsradio studios. Photo credit: KYW's Cherri Gregg

"We wanted to provide a reference into how we are becoming more engaged in the political process."

Suswell said they negotiated accommodations for Muslim delegates during the DNC, including prayer space at both the Wells Fargo and Pennsylvania Convention Center.

"It's such a huge thing for us American Muslims."

The Committee is hosting events, including a Jummah or Prayer Service at Independence Park, an Islamic Heritage Festival Saturday at Penn's Landing, and a Muslim American Delegates Welcome Luncheon on Monday, where the late Muhammad Ali will be honored. Councilman Curits Jones.

"Diversity is welcome in our city and we hope to showcase that to the rest of the world."

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