Author-religious scholar to discuss Middle East in GRCC lecture

Grand Rapids Community College’s Diversity Lecture Series will look at upheaval in the Middle East — and the role that young people played in it — with a presentation by author and religious scholar Reza Aslan on Feb. 12.

In “Youth Revolt: The Future of the Middle East,” Aslan will talk about a new generation of Muslims — socially conscious, politically active and technologically savvy. Aslan, president and CEO of Aslan Media Inc., is author of No god but God: The Origins, Evolution, and Future of Islam.

“This lecture should be particularly interesting to our students,” said Christina Arnold, director of GRCC’s Woodrick Diversity Learning Center. “Three-quarters of the population of the Middle East is under 35 years old, and this new generation has a vision of the future that is different from the one before. The world will be affected by today’s youth no matter where they are living, and Reza Aslan has the education and background to help us understand this often misunderstood part of the world.”

Aslan’s free lecture begins at 7 p.m. at Fountain Street Church, 24 Fountain St. NE, and will include American Sign Language interpretation. GRCC encourages the entire community to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate a need for an accommodation, or have questions about accessibility, please call Woodrick Diversity Learning Center at (616) 234-3390 in advance of your visit or program participation.

On-campus parking is available for $3 (with a discount pass). For more information about other speakers in the series, please call (616) 234-3390 or click here.