“Salàm aleikum” the common Arabic greeting echoes in my mind. It means “peace be upon you” a fundamental precept of Islam. We stand before the Centro Culturale Islamico di Monza e Brianza a vibrant hub of faith and community.
For almost 20 years this center has served the growing Muslim community in Monza. It’s not far from the central station easily accessible to everyone. The center isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a lively cultural center.
Fouad Selim the center’s director an Algerian who has lived in Italy for over three decades speaks of remarkable integration. He’s proud of the peaceful coexistence of the Muslim community with Monza’s residents. Around 5000 Muslims live in Monza. Many hail from Egypt Bangladesh Morocco Albania and Senegal. They’ve found a home here.
The center offers a rich tapestry of activities. Arabic and Italian language classes flourish. There are bicycle classes and tutoring for children new to Italy. Young people meet for religious and cultural discussions. Schools often visit the center promoting interfaith dialogue. They even participate in the local food bank assisting families in need. Interfaith gatherings with the Catholic community are frequent. They exchange greetings for holidays strengthening mutual respect and understanding.
The center’s imam Bouchemal Hocine reinforces the harmony. He emphasizes the shared values between Islam and Christianity. He observes that children born in Italy often identify as Italian a testament to successful integration.
Ibrahim Diop a Senegalese regular at the center speaks of brotherhood and mutual respect. He sees racism as a small minority issue. He is a mechanic and a martial artist. He feels warmly accepted in Monza.
The Centro Culturale Islamico di Monza e Brianza is more than a building. It’s a testament to peaceful coexistence cultural exchange and community engagement. It’s a vital part of the fabric of Monza’s life a place where different faiths and cultures come together in harmony.