Members of a Muslim group are hosting an information session to educate people about the Islamic religion.

The Essence of Islam event, an Introduction to Islam, will be held on Saturday from 4 p.m. at the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce in Hamilton. It is intended to break down myths and misconceptions about the religion, and welcomes people from all faiths and walks of life.

Organiser Nadia Mahmood, a member of Ahmadiyya Movement, said the event served two purposes, adding: "One is to help people understand about Islam and two to learn about other faiths in general.

"Bermuda has become a lot more multicultural and diverse in a very short span of time so with that you get a lot of different accents, faiths and beliefs. If we can do our part in teaching people a little more about Islam that's good. We want to dispel misconceptions about Islam."

"We are not here to convert or to scare people. We are here to remove those fears and misconceptions and promote knowledge, understanding and harmony as well as tolerance, tolerance is very important."

Mrs. Mahmood, a Canadian living on the Island for the past five years, said she had encountered discrimination for her religious beliefs throughout her life, even during her time in Bermuda, and believes open discourse about religion is important.

According to Mrs. Mahmood, Western media often portray Muslims in a negative light, but when people take the time to research they see there are many similarities with other religions.

"We are not the big, bad terrorists that people see on television," she said. "We are everyday people. We go to work with you and go to school with you and we are your neighbour. There are people that believe what they see on television or read on the Internet because they don't know any people in the Muslim faith, but Islam isn't what you see on TV. The fundamental teachings do stem from Christianity and Judaism."

The Essence of Islam event will feature a short presentation on the history of Islam in Bermuda, and will also tackle misconceptions about jihad and the position of women in Islam.

Jihad, meaning religious war, is often portrayed as an act of terrorism, explained Mrs. Mahmood, however it actually means "to strive to reform yourself".

"It is an inner struggle to be the best, most humane person you can be," she said.

Ahmadiyya Movement hosted two interfaith events by invitation-only earlier this year, however this is their first public event.

In addition to various seminars, there will be an exhibition of Islamic texts and light refreshments.