Usama Dakdok will return to Grand Forks for the third time this year.
The controversial speaker who travels the country preaching about the “dangers of Islam” will make another appearance in town on Nov. 3 at the Empire Arts Center to speak at an event celebrating freedom. The event will be sponsored by Q FM radio.
During a presentation at Monday night’s City Council meeting, council member Terry Bjerke, who does not accept the full council member salary of $14,100, donated $3,500 of his salary to Shine the Light, Inc., a non-profit business and ministry partner of the Christian radio station.
Phil Ehlke, the general manager for Your Q FM radio who accepted the donation at the meeting, said next month’s event will “celebrate freedom.” At this time, Ehlke said two speakers are planned for the event — Bjerke and Dakdok.
“We’re in a debate on liberty in this town,” Bjerke said. “Clearly, I have different opinions than some others, but I believe it is not only my privilege and not only my right, but my duty as an American citizen to defend liberty at all costs.”
Dakdok’s previous trips to Grand Forks have sparked debate about hate speech. His first appearance in March drew more than 150 protesters outside the Empire. Following that, a “Meet Your Muslim Neighbor” night was held.
Last month, Dakdok returned to rebut the “Meet Your Muslim Neighbor” event. On the same night, Grand Forks leaders, headed by council member Bret Weber, partnering with UND and the local advocacy group North Dakotans for Diversity and Compassion hosted a meeting to promote diversity and compassion.