Dr. Faroque Khan - Doctor Unites Jews and Muslims

It can take a lot to bring people together, especially those from different cultures, races and religions.  It's a challenge Faroque Khan has made his life's work. 

Khan, born in Kashmir, is a professor of medicine at the State University of New York at Stony Brook and a Master.  He has served as president, chair and was one of the founding members of the Mosque and Islamic Center of Long Island in Westbury.

"Dr. Khan is committed to creating more understanding between Jews and Muslims", says Jerome Davidson, senior rabbi at Temple Beth-El in Great Neck.  Davidson and Khan teamed up 12 years ago to bring together members of the mosque and synagoge.  " We started with 15 members from each community, meeting in member's homes and just getting to know one another," says Davidson.

"The American Muslims and Jews in Dialogue program has gone a long way in creating understanding, in breaking down the wall of ignorance," says Ghazi Khankan, director of interfaith affairs and communications for the Islamic Center.  Khan has also participated in educational programs of the Multi-Faith Forum held at schools, civic associations and other groups.

"Faroque brings people together because he has an open mind, a big heart and is sensitive," says Khankan.

Khan, who lives in Jericho with his wife and is the father of two grown children, has also started an apprenticeship program for minority high school students to learn about the medical profession.  " He wanted to show them that they could penetrate that world," says Khankan.

"Being from Kashmir, Faroque understands how destructive inter-religious conflict can be.  He wants Americans to understand Muslims and Muslims to understand Americans," says Goodhue.