President Barack Obama spoke to several thousand Muslims yesterday at Cairo University in Egypt. His speech was cause for much excitement among Muslims here in Wichita Falls. Today, our You Ask, We Investigate answers questions about Muslims and Islam in Wichita Falls.

Muslims in Wichita Falls and the Texoma found room for optimism after President Obama's speech at Cairo University in Egypt. During his speech, he cited verses from the Koran.

Local Muslims say the president showed respect to the Muslim world and showed America is not the enemy.

 "...So his trip and the gesture were with welcomed change. We are pleased that before he even opened his mouth and he said a lot of positive things that we are encouraged about." says Ahmed Mattar.

Speaking to KAUZ news at this mosque in Wichita Falls says a lot for how diverse our own community has become. Dr. Ahmed Mattar  says the president's speech halfway around the world is a welcomed change.

 "...And I see that as a window of opportunity for us as muslims now to rush forth and show people the duty and reality of Islam." he continues.

Brother Abdullah Shamsid-Deen agrees. And he also hopes the president's speech will open doors for christians, muslims and jews to take the cue to try and understand each other better.

"...If I know your religion and understand it, I can better appreciate you. And I believe the same. If you understand Islam and what we're really about and Muslim people in general then you would know -- hey we're like everyone else. In that we go to school, we get an education, we get married, we work, we provide for our families." says Abdullah Shamsid.

Brother Abdullah says the doors to the mosque are open as like any other religious facility. Most of all he says, everyone is welcomed to come and attend so they can see that Muslims are just trying to get closer to God.

Services are held every Friday starting at 1:00pm. If you have a question for you ask we investigate, call 687-UASK...687-8275