A “Safe Space” is a place where anyone can relax and be able to fully express themselves, without fear of being made to feel uncomfortable, unwelcome, or unsafe on account of biological s*x, race/ethnicity, s*xual orientation, gender identity or expression, cultural background, religious affiliation, age, or physical or mental ability (OUTSASKATOON, 2016). Open Horizons (formerly: Breathing Room)
initiative strives to provide a safe space for new, returning, and 'unmosqued' Muslims, and friends, to explore issues pertaining to everyday life, faith and overall emotional well-being in a manner which is appropriate, comfortable, and non-judgmental. We seek to present the Islamic tradition, where and IF needed, as it is: primarily spiritual, culturally relevant, and practical. The Open Horizons program will embody the following principles:
1. Come as you are: everyone is welcome to attend in the state that they are in. Everyone has a space here.
2. “Judgement Free Zone”: Everyone has their struggles, issues, and traumas.
3. Respectful and confidential: Show compassion to everyone and above all, maintain confidentiality. Open Horizons (formerly: Breathing Room) is a program of The Muslim Food Bank and Community Services' Society (MFBCS). Initiated in 2016 as one of the arms of HOPE for Youth Support, we are constantly striving to meet our organizational mandate of "serving humanity".
