Muslim Americans for Compassion and Interfaith Paths to Peace were very proud to host the 14th Annual Interfaith Iftar Dinner on the evening of Tuesday, March 19, 2024.
As usual, the Second Presbyterian Church on Old Brownsboro Road provided a wonderful location for hundreds of people, of all walks of life and faith backgrounds, to gather and break their fast together. Each year during the holy month of Ramada, the Interfaith Iftar Dinner provides a unique spiritual communion.
This year’s speakers included MAC President Muhammad Babar, Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg, Maryanne Elliott of the UofL School of Education, Ace Project Executive Director Rose Smith, and Whitney/Strong Executive Director and Cofounder Whitney Austin.
The focus of this year’s event was gun violence. What trends are we seeing, how Louisville leaders are fighting this epidemic, and what we can do for the victims.
In 2023, gun violence shattered a peaceful day in downtown Louisville when a disgruntled employee walked into Old National Bank headquarters and killed several people. One of those who lost their lives was Tommy Elliott, beloved family man and friend. His wife, Maryanne, spoke at Iftar, sharing her story, her strength and the road she’s taken over the last 12 months.
Then, Whitney Austin of Whitney/Strong shared her story. This amazing woman was shot 12 times during an incident in Cincinnati and lived to tell the tale. She has dedicated her life to changing communities for the better and working to end the affliction of gun violence.
Closer to home, Christopher 2x works with Louisville youth to build community and educate on the dangers of gun violence. His organization, 2x Game Changers, has been a longtime advocate for peace in underserved communities.
This year’s Iftar dinner was a congregation of ideas by people who are fed up with violence in their community. We’re proud to use the conversations made here to move toward a brighter future.
