The UI will present "Intolerance and the First Amendment: Islamophobia," a discussion of Islamophobia, human rights, and religious freedom, at 7 p.m. today in the Main Library’s Shambaugh Auditorium. Admission is free.

The discussion will include conversations on stereotypes, misunderstandings, and fears that contribute to the rise of Islamophobia and intolerance toward the Islamic community. Panelists will present their views on policy decisions and bans concerning Islam and specific forms of religious expression.

Panelists will include Iman Taha Atta Tawil of the Mother Mosque in Cedar Raids; UI law Professor Adrien Wing; Miriam Amer, the executive director of the Iowa chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations; and Connie Ryan Terrell, the executive director of the Iowa Interfaith Alliance.

The event is sponsored by the UI Center for Human Rights, the UI Muslim Student Association, and UI International Programs.

— by Jennifer Downing