The Association Culturelle Islamique (ACI) was founded in 1994 in Strasbourg with the fundamental goal of promoting Islamic culture, fostering understanding, and supporting the spiritual and cultural needs of the community. Over the past three decades, ACI has become a recognized and respected institution dedicated to cultural enrichment, education, and intercultural dialogue.
Our Origins and Foundation
ACI was established at a time when the need for cultural bridges between different communities in Strasbourg was increasingly apparent. From the beginning, our founders envisioned an association that would not only serve as a place for Islamic cultural preservation but also as a center for dialogue and mutual respect among all residents, regardless of background or belief.
The association took root in the heart of Strasbourg at 56 Place Petrarque, a location chosen for its accessibility and welcoming environment. Since then, ACI has grown steadily in membership and in the scope of its activities, evolving to meet the changing needs of the community while staying true to its founding principles.
Our Core Identity
At ACI, we believe that culture is both a reflection of identity and a bridge toward understanding. Our identity as an Islamic cultural association is grounded in the rich heritage of Islamic civilization, including its values, traditions, arts, and intellectual contributions to society.
Our work centers on sharing this heritage with the community in a way that promotes respect, tolerance, and coexistence. We are committed to showcasing the diversity within Islamic culture—recognizing the many traditions, languages, and histories that form its mosaic.
A Community Hub
ACI is more than an association; it is a community hub where people come together to learn, celebrate, and engage. We serve individuals and families of all ages, backgrounds, and levels of familiarity with Islam. Whether you are a lifelong member of the Islamic faith or someone curious to learn more, ACI offers a space for discovery and connection.
Our association hosts a variety of cultural events, educational workshops, lectures, and exhibitions designed to engage the public and foster dialogue. These events offer opportunities to explore Islamic art, literature, history, and contemporary issues in a respectful and open setting.
Educational Commitment
Education lies at the heart of ACI’s mission. We believe that knowledge is the foundation of understanding, and understanding is essential for peaceful coexistence. To that end, we provide a range of educational programs aimed at all ages.
Our workshops and lectures cover a wide array of topics—from Quranic studies and Islamic philosophy to the history of Islamic civilization and contemporary cultural debates. We work closely with educators, scholars, and community leaders to ensure that our educational offerings are both authentic and relevant.
In addition to formal programs, ACI promotes informal learning through community discussions and cultural exchanges. We encourage dialogue not only within the Islamic community but also between different cultural and religious groups in Strasbourg.
Promoting Intercultural Dialogue
One of the most important aspects of our identity is our commitment to intercultural dialogue. Strasbourg is a city of remarkable cultural diversity and a European center of diplomacy and cooperation. ACI actively contributes to this environment by building bridges between communities.
Through partnerships with local organizations, schools, and cultural institutions, we create spaces for dialogue that foster mutual respect and break down stereotypes. Our aim is to promote an inclusive society where cultural differences are celebrated rather than feared.
We firmly believe that dialogue and cultural exchange are essential tools in combating prejudice and misunderstanding. By facilitating conversations and shared experiences, ACI contributes to social cohesion and peacebuilding at the local level.
Our Values
Our association is guided by a set of core values that shape our activities and relationships:
- Respect: We honor the dignity of every individual and respect diverse beliefs and perspectives.
- Tolerance: We promote acceptance and understanding among people of different cultural and religious backgrounds.
- Education: We are committed to lifelong learning and the dissemination of knowledge.
- Community: We foster a sense of belonging and support for all members of our community.
- Cultural Preservation: We work to preserve and promote the rich heritage of Islamic culture in all its forms.
These values are not only central to our work but also reflect the ethical teachings of Islam, which emphasize compassion, justice, and social responsibility.
Who We Serve
ACI serves a wide and diverse audience. Our members include Muslims from various cultural backgrounds residing in Strasbourg and the surrounding region. We also welcome non-Muslim individuals interested in learning about Islamic culture and building intercultural connections.
Families, youth, students, researchers, artists, and educators find in ACI a place to meet, exchange, and grow. We pay special attention to the needs of young people by offering programs that help them navigate their cultural identity while engaging with the broader society.
Our activities are designed to be inclusive and accessible, ensuring that everyone who wishes to participate can do so with dignity and respect.
Our Achievements
Over the years, ACI has been proud to contribute to Strasbourg’s cultural landscape in various meaningful ways:
- Organizing annual cultural festivals showcasing Islamic art, music, and cuisine
- Hosting lectures and seminars featuring scholars and experts from around the world
- Creating educational programs in partnership with schools and universities
- Facilitating intercultural dialogue forums with representatives from diverse communities
- Supporting youth engagement through workshops, mentorship, and cultural activities
These initiatives have not only strengthened the local Islamic community but have also enriched Strasbourg’s overall cultural diversity.
Looking Ahead
While we are proud of our history and achievements, ACI remains forward-looking. We understand that the challenges and opportunities facing cultural associations continue to evolve. We are committed to adapting, innovating, and expanding our reach to better serve the community.
Future plans include increasing our digital presence to reach a broader audience, developing more youth-centered initiatives, and expanding partnerships with cultural and educational institutions.
Join Us
ACI invites you to become part of this journey. Whether as a member, volunteer, or participant in our programs, your involvement strengthens our community and helps promote a culture of peace, respect, and understanding.
Together, we can continue to build a Strasbourg where cultural diversity is celebrated and where the values of Islamic culture contribute to a richer, more inclusive society.