ISLAMIC HISTORY MONTH KINGSTON 2026

For the 20th year in a row, Kingston’s City Council has proclaimed October as Islamic History Month. Inaugurated in 2007, Islamic History Month is a nationwide celebration that seeks to share the history, heritage, and culture of Muslims with fellow Canadians, and Kingston has participated since its inception. The theme for Islamic History Month 2026 is: Islamic Calligraphy: A Living Legacy of Faith, Art, and Expression.

Local events, both associated with this year’s theme but also with connections to Islamic History in general, are being organized throughout various spheres of the community, among which are the following events:

 September 25: Join host Dr. Qanita Lilla (Associate Creator, Arts of Africa, Agnes Etherington Art Centre) on "With Opened Mouths: The Podcast" in conversation with Jamelie Hassan about her creative practice with calligraphy, her identity as a Muslim in Canada, and her life-long commitment to a free Palestine. The podcast will be available on CFRC Podcast Network starting at 5 am. Details at: https://podcast.cfrc.ca/podcasts/with-opened-mouths-the-podcast/

 October 3: Illumination of City Hall in Green to commemorate Islamic History Month, starting at dusk until dawn the next day.

 October 25: Open House at the Islamic Centre of Kingston, from 2-4 pm. Come and see displays of calligraphy and art including exhibits from some of our local artisans.

 November 5: Make it Happen Workshop on Islamic Calligraphy with Jamal Saeed. Hosted by Kingston Frontenac Public Library — Central Branch (130 Johnson Street) at 6 pm. For additional information, please go to the IHM Kingston Facebook page (@IHMKingston)

Events are being added as they are finalized.

For more information on this national initiative please see the Islamic History Month Canada  Website (https://www.islamichistorymonth.ca) or  Facebook Page (@IslamicHistoryMonthCanada).