Eighteenth International Conference on New Directions in the Humanities

Abstract

There is a growing number of Somali refugees in Central Pennsylvania, USA. In an epoch where there is a plethora of negative anti-Islamic and refugee sentiments, it is refreshing to be an active member of a planning community that fosters education and healthy relationships between the Somali population and members of a predominately homogeneous, non-Islamic community. Utilizing the resettlement theoretical approach, this study considers how a local University, along with inter-denominational clergy, and other community stake holders have hosted annual community education events in an attempt dispel myths and foster humanistic relationships.