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Examining differences allows people to grow

Jill Olsen

Jun. 9, 2014 6:10 pm

Regarding Linn County Attorney Jerry Vander Sanden questioning having Linn County employees attend a seminar at the Mother Mosque of America: For the past 10 or so years, I have arranged for Imam Taha Tawil to work with my Graceland University graduate classes (all practicing teachers).

We were welcomed to the Mother Mosque for an informational evening about the history of Muslims in Iowa, the needs of Muslim students in their classes and a broader understanding of one of the religions from the 'Sons of Abraham.”

As a taxpayer in Linn County, I consider this seminar a prudent and wise expenditure. In learning about differences, we grow in the understanding of others and in our convictions.

Jill Olsen

Mount Vernon

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