Islam is one of the world's major religions with approximately one billion followers worldwide, of which nearly a million reside in the UK. A follower of Islam is called a Muslim, an Arabic word meaning `one who submits himself'. It is appropriate as Islam is not just a belief but a way of life.
Students from all over the world arrive every year to study at the University of Bristol from diverse backgrounds. Islam is a way of life thereby everyday services such as supermarkets can prove difficult to navigate when arriving from country that explicitly labels foods suitable for Muslims and foods which are not. As this kind of labelling does not exist in the UK iSoc can provide advice on shopping for food. This is an example of the type of service iSoc provides as well as arranging Friday prayer facilities, access to literature etc.
To represent Muslim interests at a local and national levels.
iSoc recognises that Muslims interest have weak representation in the UK and intends to amend this by encouraging and increasing participation both locally and nationally on matters affecting Muslim.
To combat ignorance, misinformation and prejudice against Muslims and Islam.
As a case of example, iSoc recognises that on September 11th Islam was hijacked by those who carried out atrocities in its name. As a result there has been a back-lash on Muslims as increasing numbers have been victims of verbal and physical abuse. To combat this iSoc intends to tackle the root problem by increasing awareness amongst Muslims and non- Muslims of Islam's values, by raising concerns when Islam is misrepresented in the media and by campaigning to remove prejudice against Muslims.
To inform, promote and increase awareness of Islam to Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
University is about meeting new people, discovering different cultures and backgrounds and discovering things about you. They are about having fun. iSoc is no different, we like low cost (or even free!) food, entertainment and fun. These are the avenues we intend to exploit to introduce people to Islam, in a friendly, caring and open environment. Our purpose is to encourage people to ask questions on what they don't understand so we may answer them!