Islamic centre exhibit shows interfaith unity

AN EXHIBITION highlighting the efforts of Albanian Muslims who defied the Nazis to help rescue and protect Jews will be staged on Sunday at the Centre for Islamic Understanding in Golders Green.

Being held in collaboration with the Faiths Forum for London and Barnet Multi Faith Forum, the Yad Vashem exhibition is part of the centre’s efforts to connect with its neighbours and heal the divides caused by the objections of some residents to its opening.

The title of the display, Besa, is the Albanian code of honour and means literally “to keep the promise”.

A person acting according to Besa can be trusted with the life of another.

Rabbi Natan Levy, head of operations at Faith Forums for London, said “this wonderful exhibition shows the real value of interfaith solidarity.

“It is a powerful reminder that the Muslim community in Albania was one of the few which did not stand idly by when the Nazis attempted to eradicate their Jewish neighbours. It’s also incredibly important to remember that Jewish and Muslim communities have always historically supported each other.

“By spending more time together and seeking to understand our commonalities and appreciate our differences, we can provide a united front against hatred.”