HONOLULU — Hawaii is celebrating its inaugural “Islam Day,” which was created by state lawmakers over the objections of those who said the religion shouldn’t be honored.

The festivities Thursday included a canned food collection for the Hawaii Food Bank, hand painting, a comedy skit and a panel discussion on "Coexistence in a Pluralistic Society."
The event was held at Ala Moana Beach Park. There was no government funding or involvement beyond the legislative resolution designating Sept. 24, 2009, as Islam Day.
The Muslim Association of Hawaii says the event will provide an opportunity for various religions to share their faiths with each other.
Two Republican senators opposed Islam Day, saying they didn’t want to endorse a religion associated with the 9/11 terrorist attacks.