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Gloucester's Muslim History Unveiled in New Film
28 Oct
Summary
- Documentary chronicles Gloucester's Muslim population history and experiences.
- Early Muslims prayed in rented spaces before the first mosque in 1983.
- Eid celebrations have evolved from home gatherings to park events.
A filmmaker has created a documentary detailing the history and experiences of Gloucester's Muslim population. The film, titled 'Eid in Gloucester,' captures the evolution of the community since the 1970s, showcasing stories from first-generation Muslims to the present day.
In earlier decades, Muslims in Gloucester prayed in rented properties as there were no mosques. Eid celebrations were quiet, home-based affairs. The first Islamic prayer room was established in the 1960s by a community leader who converted his home's cellar.
The community's growth led to the fundraising and construction of the first purpose-built mosque in 1983. Eid congregations, initially held in Gloucester Park in the 1960s, continue to take place there, drawing people from across the region.