Hassan Al-Qazwini, the spiritual leader of the Islamic Center of America in Detroit and author of the recently published book “The American Crescent,” will visit NMU on Oct. 22-23.

Al-Qazwini will speak in the Reynolds Recital Hall in the Hedgcock building on Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. The following day he will speak at noon at St. Paul Episcopal Church.

The event is being sponsored by the NMU President’s Office, the NMU ECDC Committee, Marquette Universalist Congregation, St. Mark’s, Marquette Interfaith Forum, and the Temple Beth Shalom.

Jason Morgan, president of the Progressive Student’s Roundtable, said that his group has co-sponsored Al-Qazwini’s visit. Al-Qazwini offers students at NMU a chance to learn about a religion they might not often encounter in the Upper Peninsula.

“We have signed on as a co-sponsor because this is an incredible opportunity for NMU to have someone who is respected around the world for his work in developing positive interfaith relationships,” Morgan said. “Too often, we focus on individuals who are known for outlandish and shocking behavior. This is an opportunity for our community to hear from a man who is educational and inspirational.”

Al-Qazwini’s speeches focus on dispelling common misconceptions about the Islamic faith, and the ability of the Islamic faith to coexist with other faiths. In his work, Al-Qazwini has met with former president Bill Clinton, President George W. Bush and Sen. Barack Obama.