men and women

Assalamu AlaikumIs separation of men and women in our homes, Mosques, or Community Centers are a cu ltural issue or a religious issue. We have an Islamic Community Center/ Mosque in North America, where we do not observe a complete separation between the sexes. There is no partition between the two groups during social events, although both groups have their own designated areas. During prayer times the women sits in the back of the carpeted area, without any curtain or separation. There is a discussion among the members saying that separation is a cultural issue rather a religious issue. Please clarify with reference from the Quran and Aahadiths of The Prophet Mohammad may Peace Be Upon Him, so we may increase our knowledge and implement the right choices in our community center.

Dear dignified scholars, I would like to know what does Islam say about mixing between men and women as many say that it is haram (unlawful) while others give a loose rein to themselves in this regard.