Each year, Berea’s International Center helps to further educate the campus and community about a particular region of the world. This year’s focus is Africa and the African Diaspora. The College is hosting Dr. Adesina as a part of the 2005-06 African Focus. FOCUS on AFRICA programs with Dr. Adesina are free and open to the public and include:

Oct. 13
“Iftar”
Alumni Building, Baird Lounge, 6 p.m.
This event will be Iftar – Muslim students and faculty who are fasting will break their fast together (others who have fasted for the day also are invited to break their fast with the Iftar). Food will be provided by a Middle Eastern Restaurant. Following the Iftar, Dr. Adesina will speak about the Muslim observance of Ramadan, as well as special traditions of West African Muslims during Ramadan.

Oct. 27
“Islamic Law,”
Alumni Building, Baird Lounge, 6 p.m.
Dr. Adesina’s talk will focus on the sources and traditions of interpretation (Madhaheb) of Islamic Law and the generally moderate nature of Islamic Law and specifics regarding the use of violence and force.

Nov. 9
“ What is ‘female circumcision’?”
Women’s Studies Center, Phelps Stokes 2nd floor, noon – 1 p.m.
Dr. Abdur-Razaq Adesina will lead a discussion
Does Islam encourage or condone it? What is practiced in several predominately Muslim countries?
Co-sponsored by Women’s Studies and is a part of the Peanut Butter and Gender Series. Lunch is provided.

Nov. 15
Alumni Building, Baird Lounge, 6-8 p.m.
Forum on Religion in Africa
Three scholars from different traditions – Christianity, Islam and traditional religions – will speak. Dr. Adesina will speak about Islam, new religious movements in Africa and Muslim-Christian relations.
Co-sponsored by the Department of Philosophy and Religion