US Muslims open mosque to community to counter islamophobia

The Downtown Denver Islamic Centre in Denver, United States, has opened its doors to community members as part of efforts to educate the public on the peaceful teachings of Islam. According to a report by CBS News, the centre uses Fridays—through its website and direct community engagement—to welcome anyone interested in visiting the mosque and […]

The Downtown Denver Islamic Centre in Denver, United States, has opened its doors to community members as part of efforts to educate the public on the peaceful teachings of Islam.

According to a report by CBS News, the centre uses Fridays—through its website and direct community engagement—to welcome anyone interested in visiting the mosque and learning how Islam promotes peace and coexistence among people of all faiths.

“Like any house of worship in America, we welcome people and try to give them a sense of peace, belonging, and grounding,” said Mohammad Kolila, Imam of the Downtown Denver Islamic Centre.

While the mosque has not recently faced direct hostility, incidents of anti-Islamic sentiment have been rising nationwide, according to the Council on American-Islamic Relations’ (CAIR) 2025 Civil Rights Report.

In Dearborn, Michigan, anti-Islam protests have taken place. In Texas and Florida, state governors have designated the Muslim Brotherhood and CAIR as foreign terrorist organisations—moves widely criticised by Muslim advocacy groups.

Kolila said misconceptions about mosques persist. “I just think it’s hilarious that people stereotype a mosque as a hidden place that nobody knows anything about,” he said.

The imam explained that his goal is to serve as a bridge between Colorado’s Muslim community and the wider public.

Despite the mosque’s strict security measures—put in place to protect worshippers and visitors—Kolila said the centre remains committed to openness.

“There’s nothing to worry about. We’re here in downtown and we welcome everybody. We’re here for everyone,” he said. “We have kids here. We have men and women who come. We have elders and people with disabilities who need accessibility support. It’s a place that welcomes everyone, and it’s safe to be here.” (CBS News)