ILLUME

Artist Hand-makes Painted Islamic and Middle-Eastern Inspired Jewelry

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 11:12:48 -0700

]]> Imagine walking into a dazzling home resembling a “livable folk art” and Islamic art museum: wood panels from the Swat Valley, Palestinian bedouin textiles, and sand blasted tiles from Morocco and Afghanistan. That would be 27-year-old artist and jewelry designer, Taslim van Hattum and family’s mosaic studio home in New Orleans, LA.

Indigenous Muslim Support Network Rising in Australia

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 10:58:53 -0700

]]> In Australia, the network of support for the indigenous (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Muslim community is set to expand and diversify, according to its founder, Chinese and Aboriginal woman, Eugenia Flynn.

America, A Mosque and Me

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 10:18:44 -0700

]]> When the planes flew into the World Trade Center in New York on September 11, 2001, I was living in Seattle, on the other side of America. My brother and his wife were visiting me. We did not leave the house for two days because we were worried that Americans angry at Muslims would attack my sister-in-law, who wore a hijab.

Austrian Political Party, Neo-Nazis Promote Mosque-and-Muslim Shooting Game

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 18:23:15 -0700

]]> An anti-Muslim online shooting game creates controversy in Austria, involving an established political party, Neo-Nazis, and a Turkish extremist group.

Muslim Community at a Crossroads with a Leadership Vacuum

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 12:54:02 -0700

]]> Muslims are a very diverse people. Although they share timeless universals that weave them together into a common fabric, it would be dishonest to paint them with a broad brush.

Halal Sex Shop for Muslim Couples

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 12:36:37 -0700

]]> CNN's Atika Shubert meets the man behind what's billed as the world's first online sex shop catering to Muslim couples.

African-American Muslims: Left Out of the National Conversation on Islam

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 12:03:56 -0700

]]> “We have to be able to decode what’s happening and realize that this is religious intolerance on one hand, and it’s [also] good ol’ red-blooded American racial and ethnic bias on the other hand,” said Imam Al-Hajj Talib Abdur-Rashid, sitting in his office at the Mosque of Islamic Brotherhood Inc. in Harlem.

Jewish Paramilitary Group Brings West Bank Tactics to US

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 19:22:30 -0700

]]> Using West Bank settlements’ paramilitary organizations as a model, a group of Israeli Defence Force (IDF) veterans have formed a "paramilitary emergency armed response team."

Hidaya Foundation Ramps Up Aid in Pakistan

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 19:17:02 -0700

]]> During these long Summer Ramadan fasts many of us are fortunate enough to spend our weekends off in the comfort of our air-conditioned homes. Not so for the staff and volunteers of the Hidaya Foundation, who are spending these hot weekends lifting boxes and loading shipping containers with relief supplies to be sent to the flooded areas of Pakistan.

Minorities Attacked During Pakistani Floods

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 13:12:53 -0700

]]> In addition to the country-wide chaos, affliction, and death due to the catastrophic Pakistani floods, religious minorities in the country are suffering increased levels of persecution and the denial of aid and resources in many cities around the nation.

Burmese Muslim Refugees Seeking Shelter and Survival

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 13:00:33 -0700

]]> “We know you help Shan people Burma. Please help we. We Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh.” This was an email I received nearly two years ago. It was accompanied by heart-wrenching photos of people on the brink of starvation. Children with distended bellies, covered in parasites.

Feds Sue Retailer

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:44:50 -0700

]]> The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission sued popular youth clothing company Abercrombie and Fitch yesterday over a case in which a young 18 year-old woman’s job application was turned down because she wore the hijab.

Muslim-Americans: A Call to Action

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:35:52 -0700

]]> In response to the heightened bigotry against Muslim-Americans in recent weeks, a number of prominent Muslim organizations are calling their communities to action.

Five Years of Struggles, a Future of Hope

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 09:35:27 -0700

]]> The five year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina marks more than just the five years since the initial Category 3 storm that hit on August 29, 2005.

Exibit Celebrates Muslim Contributions

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 15:42:11 -0700

]]> Reporter Matthew Brunwasser toured a new exhibition in Istanbul, Turkey examining the technological innovations of Muslim civilization.

US Mission in Iraq "Draws to a Close"

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:33:01 -0700

]]> What began as mission to purge the world of terrorism and remove weapons of mass destruction from Iraq, is finally drawing to a close today.

My Faith My Voice

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:38:04 -0700

]]> My Faith My Voice is a grassroots effort by American Muslims from across the country looking to present their voice on issues affecting Muslims and Islam in America.

Distributing Meals to the Homeless

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:35:49 -0700

]]> Nearly two dozen events later, more than 100 different volunteers have participated in Project FEED and over 9,000 meals have been distributed.

Wrapping For Literacy, Senegalese Mix

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:02:51 -0700

]]> Twelve pages of diversified head-covered women in the 2011 wall calendar, Beautifully Wrapped, will contribute to the literacy of 10,000 girls from Senegal.

New York Cab Driver Facing Trauma

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 14:03:14 -0700

]]> Ahmed Sharif, the New York Muslim cab driver who was attacked for allegedly practicing Islam, is facing extensive trauma and monetary difficulties as a result of last week’s stabbing.

Samira Atash: Fashion-Easta

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 09:57:27 -0700

]]> The fashion world is full of labels named after their designers: Calvin Klein, Donna Karan, Ralph Lauren, to name a few. But it’s still rare to see a Muslim name on a popular brand of clothing in the west.

Exploring the Voices of Female Clerics

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 06:33:49 -0700

]]> American University professor goes to Lebanon, Syria and Egypt to shed light on female Islamic scholarship.

Gates Applauds Khan Academy's Ingenuity

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 06:27:20 -0700

]]> Weeks ago at the Aspen Ideas Festival, Bill Gates applauded the educational efforts of Salman Khan in front of a 2,000-man audience.

Striking A Blow For Women's Rights

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 06:19:57 -0700

]]> In 1999, a woman was executed in front of 30,000 spectators in Kabul’s Ghazi Sport stadium by the Taliban for fighting back against her abusive husband.

Eid on 9/11 Anniversary?

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 11:19:23 -0700

]]> This is the way the Muslim calendar works: because it’s lunar, it slips back about 11 days each Gregorian year. Lunar months are 29 or 30 days (years are 354 or 355 days). So every 33-odd Gregorian years, the Muslim calendar makes a full pilgrimage through the seasons.

Game Time: Great Muslim Athletes

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 00:30:08 -0700

]]> What makes an athlete great? Is it their natural born ability? Their determination? Their heart and drive to be the greatest? Their love of the game? How about all of the above plus one extra “it” factor.

Cab Driver Allegedly Stabbed for Being Muslim

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 13:46:14 -0700

]]> New York taxi driver Ahmed Sharif was allegedly stabbed Tuesday night for being Muslim. The 43-year old victim is now in stable condition.

Nation's First Muslim College Opens Its Doors

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 13:40:47 -0700

]]> What promises to be America’s first Muslim full-time institution, Zaytuna College, has opened its doors to students this week.

iMuslim: There's an App for That!

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 12:52:09 -0700

]]> In the midst of the Silicon Valley, Muslims are making use of advanced technology to keep in practice with their religion.

Afghan National Army's First Female Faces

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 06:32:42 -0700

]]> Afghan National Army is training its first female officer recruits.

The Gold Dinar is Gaining Ground

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 06:20:32 -0700

]]> Harsh criticisms of Islam and Muslims are becoming increasingly common in Western media, but one area they continue to command respect is in the financial sector, especially among Austrian economists.

Civil Rights Groups and News Outlet File Lawsuit Against the FBI

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 06:10:15 -0700

]]> The American Civil Liberties Union, the Asian Law Caucus and the San Francisco Bay Guardian filed suit today against the FBI after the federal agency's failure to release documents from a Freedom of Information Act request promised in March.

Crocheter Knits Hope for Flood Victims

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:05:45 -0700

]]> 30-year-old freelance artist, Savera Iftikhar, discovered her talent of crocheting accidentally - literally.

She will be donating fifty percent of the proceeds from her hand. made. stuff this week to the flood victims in Pakistan.

Miss USA Fasts Ramadan, Strips Away Stereotypes

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 08:24:11 -0700

]]> Miss USA Rima Fakih says she is fasting from sunrise to sundown in accordance with her religious beliefs. The 24-year-old beauty queen is in Las Vegas preparing for today's Miss Universe beauty pageant, but says observing the Islamic month of Ramadan is important to her.

American Muslim Leaders Visit Nazi Concentration Camps

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 05:12:16 -0700

]]> A group of Muslims praying outside a concentration camp; such a sight stopped passer-byers in their tracks. Earlier this month, a delegation of prominent US Muslims and Jews visited camps in Dachauin, Germany and Auschwitz, Poland.

More Girls Jumping into Youth Olympics

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 15:36:20 -0700

]]> At this weekend’s opening ceremony of the Youth Olympics, Jihan El Midany will lead the Egyptian delegation and mark a remarkable moment for her country.

Barack Obama, 'Muslim' President

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 12:03:17 -0700

]]> One wonders why only 20% of Americans believe President Obama is a Muslim, considering the overwhelming evidence conclusively proving his slavish allegiance to Islam and utter disregard for Christianity.

The Many Flavors of American Islam

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 08:05:34 -0700

]]> Two comedians visit a different mosque on each of Ramadan's 30 days.

Woman Alleges Hijab Is Not Welcomed at the Happiest Place on Earth

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 15:08:06 -0700

]]> Around the world, the personal decision to wear the hijab remains controversial for many governments, companies, and people. In France, religious symbols, with the hijab included, are banned in public schools and government buildings.

The Power of Storytelling: Creating a New Future for American Muslims

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 14:02:25 -0700

]]> In 7th-century Arabia, the storyteller was valued more than the swordsman. The audience sat on the floor surrounding the gifted orator as he captivated the eager listeners with beautiful poetry narrating their history. In the 21st century, the art form may have evolved to include motion pictures, TV shows, theater productions, novels, and standup comedy, but they all serve the same function: storytelling.

Balancing Spirituality with Sports: Training While Fasting

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 09:24:58 -0700

]]> For the National Football League (NFL), late summer translates into intense workouts and opportunities for players to build up their endurance. This Ramadan, Husain Abdullah, safety for the Minnesota Vikings, will be practicing for his team while fasting.

Issues Affecting Muslim Youth

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 09:11:39 -0700

]]> Tayyibah Taylor, editor of Azizah Magazine, and Shaykh Jihad Brown of Tabah Foundation talk about the role of Islam.

World’s Largest Museum of Islamic Art Re-opens

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 05:37:36 -0700

]]> After a $10-million restoration project that lasted 8 years, President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt officially reopened the world’s largest Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo on Saturday, August 14, 2010

Bhangra Empire: Remixing the Classics

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 14:46:06 -0700

]]> When Omer Mirza, the coach and choreographer of Bhangra Empire, received an email asking him to call a number in Washington, D.C. he wasn't sure what to do. It was a strange enough request that he was intrigued enough to call.

One of the Worst Humanitarian Disasters Ever Seen

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 18:10:54 -0700

]]> Described as one of the worst humanitarian disasters ever seen, the devastating floods in Pakistan have destroyed the lives of many and brought catastrophe to the nation.

Photographer Celebrates Muslim Women in iCOVER

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 10:47:43 -0700

]]> A professional boxer, a cross-country truck driver and mechanic, an American soldier, a surfer and tri-athlete, and a court judge were a few of the plethora of hijabie’s featured in Sadaf Syed’s photo documentary book: iCOVER: A Day in the Life of a Muslim American covered girl.

China's Female Imams

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 10:21:36 -0700

]]> China distinguishes itself in the Muslim world with a long tradition of female imams.

Ramadan Road Trip

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 18:26:35 -0700

]]> In the midst of the national commotion around the proposed mosque near Ground Zero and the President’s recent defense of the plan at the Annual White House Ramadan Iftar, two Muslim-Americans have announced their intention to visit 30 mosques in 30 different states during the holy month of Ramadan.

Singing Lessons for Muezzins

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 15:45:11 -0700

]]> With thousands of mosques broadcasting the call to prayer five times a day, it only takes one muezzin singing with a froggy voice to make life miserable for neighbors.

Muslims Get Grant For Liquor Stores To Become Grocery Stores

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 08:49:56 -0700

]]> The gold plated “Allah” sign hangs in Saeed Azimzadeh’s store right next to his license to sell liquor in the San Francisco Bay Area. Born and raised in Yemen, Azimzadeh earned a degree in Civil Engineering.

Unveiling the Haute Hijab

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 16:00:38 -0700

]]> Melanie Elturk has always dreamt of becoming a fashion designer. At the age of 25, she is not only a fashion designer and an attorney, but is preparing to launch her online store, Haute Hijab, this fall.

Obama the Menteng Kid Premieres in Jakarta

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 06:00:17 -0700

]]> Obama the Menteng Kid (Obama Anak Menteng in Indonesian), a film depicting US President Barack Obama's early childhood in Indonesia, premiered in Jakarta on June 30 to an audience of Indonesian celebrities, politicians and US Ambassador Cameron Hume.

Neighbors Stand in Opposition of Mosque Minaret Plans

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 16:35:23 -0700

]]> In the midst of high-profile national opposition to the building of a mosque near "Ground Zero" and a heightened sense of resistance to mosque projects across the country, the Muslim Community Association of Santa Clara, Calif. has announced its hopes to build a symbolic 63-foot minaret to add to the existing facility.

Feeding the Needy

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 11:30:30 -0700

]]> Every Saturday from 8:30 - 10:00 volunteers from Lighthouse and other Oakland Mosques join to feed the needy at the Rainbow Recreation Center. The event, organized by Alice, is located at: 5800 International Blvd in Oakland. All are welcome!

Honoring Women

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 10:27:18 -0700

]]> Time magazine’s August 9 edition features a photo of an Afghani girl with her nose cut off, purportedly at the order of a local Taliban commander as a punishment for running away from her abusive in-laws.

Striving Towards a Green Ramadan

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 09:40:28 -0700

]]> Ramadan is a time to nurture the spirit of sacrifice, God-consciousness and self-awareness. It is an opportunity to learn the twin lessons of moderation and conservation as we forgo food and drink and embrace the ideal of less is better. It is a month long training camp to imbibe these habits that should then be applied to the rest of the year.

Ramadan Blues

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 09:34:47 -0700

]]> “I promise.” The young boy – ashamed, dishonored, and fearing the wrath of a vengeful, omnipotent Allah – promised his Pakistani immigrant father with conviction and resolve. “I promise not to eat during my fast. I will only eat at maghrib, after the sun sets, with every other fasting Muslim.”

Mecca Hopes With Time It Will be the Center of the World

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 17:51:40 -0700

]]> As the holy month of Ramadan begins, Saudi Arabia has announced plans to complete a four-faced clock on what will be the second tallest building in the world, towering over the Grand Mosque and the Kaaba.

MOOZ-lum: The Movie

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 12:21:37 -0700

]]> Sunday, August 8 saw the release of the official trailer for the long-awaited feature film MOOZ-lum: The Movie. Written and directed by Qasim "Q" Basir, starring Danny Glover, Nia Long and Evan Ross, it promises to be a ground-breaking film about the American Muslim experience.

In the Shadow of the "Ground Zero Mosque" Controvery

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 06:25:58 -0700

]]> Over the years, since the first Persian Gulf War and up until 9/11, questions about Islam have been slowly evolving from the very basic relating to beliefs and practices, to the more complex and practical as Muslims found themselves confronted for the first time with questions about where Islam stands on issues such as democracy, human rights and pluralism.

Journey Into America: The Challenge of Islam

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 19:53:04 -0700

]]> Akbar Ahmed and his team of American assistants visited Muslim communities in 75 towns and cities in the U.S. to find out the views of people there on various topics including religion, terrorism, and American politics.

Master of Calligraphy Shares His Craft

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 15:35:41 -0700

]]> Every other Wednesday, on a leafy cul-de-sac in Arlington, Virginia, students trickle in and out of the home studio of Mohamed Zakariya, who teaches Islamic calligraphy. Reporter Bruce Wallace went to a recent lesson at Zakariya’s home to see and hear the master at work.

Muslim Holidays in Public Schools

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 15:27:23 -0700

]]> In U.S. cities where Muslim populations are growing fast, families are pushing to make their holidays part the calendar in schools. Some cities have adopted the idea – but in the nation’s largest school system – New York City – the debate continues. Lily Jamali reports from New York.

Fareed Zakaria Returns Anti-Defamation League Award

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:40:03 -0700

]]> Indian-American journalist Fareed Zakaria returned an award he received from the Anti-Defamation League due to the group's opposition to the proposed "Ground Zero Mosque."

Clowns Who Care

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 09:12:35 -0700

]]> Liccione, a native of Rochester in New York, comes from a professional and educational background in dance, clowning and theater arts. She came to Dubai as part of the Arts Festival during the Dubai Summer Surprises.

Muslim Leader Speaks Out Against "Ground Zero Mosque"

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 08:53:55 -0700

]]> A controversial plan to build a 13-story cultural center housing a mosque in lower Manhattan has incited an anti-Islamic backlash across the country. Park51, formerly known as the Cordoba House, was favored by the New York City community board in a 29-1 vote.

Obama Helps Fundraise for Illinois Senate Candidate Alexi Giannoulias

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 19:14:30 -0700

]]> President Barack Obama aided U.S. Senate candidate Alexi Giannoulias on Thursday, raising much-needed campaign funds and reassuring voters that the Democrat is a trusted ally who can be counted on to help advance a progressive agenda.

Clinton Praises Kenyan Road to Democracy

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 12:38:15 -0700

]]> Secretary of State Hilary Clinton praises peaceful voting procedures in Kenya.

Denial: A Memoir of Terror

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 12:33:41 -0700

]]> Jessica Stern is perhaps best known for her work interviewing terrorists about their motivations, research that culminated in the acclaimed book Terror in the Name of God: Why Religious Militants Kill.

Home Is Where the School Is

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 12:12:49 -0700

]]> Ask Omar Alwazzani to name all the countries in Western Europe and he’ll do it at the speed of light. Can he name all the presidents of the United States? Yup. Does he know where Morocco is on the map? Of course. How about Italy? No sweat.

Eco-Islam in Africa

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 11:27:30 -0700

]]> Green is the color commonly associated with Islam and some scholars say the Qur'an also commands Muslims to be green in the modern environmental sense. In East Africa, a development project using Islamic ethics has taught locals the Qur'anic imperatives of conserving natural resources. Some say eco-Islam has taken root. From Pemba Island in Tanzania, Matthew Brunwasser reports.

US Plans to Impose New Sanctions on North Korea

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 01:20:51 -0700

]]> Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has expressed her disapproval over warnings made by North Korea regarding US naval drills set in South Korea. The Secretary of State said it is "distressing" that North Korea keeps issuing threats.

"Leaving Islam" Bus Ad Parodies "Why Islam" Campaign

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 23:41:04 -0700

]]> Fatwa on your head? Is your family threatening you? Leaving Islam? Got Questions? Get Answers!

President Obama Celebrates 49th Birthday

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 18:48:31 -0700

]]> President Barack Obama celebrates his 49th birthday today with old friends in Chicago as First Lady Michelle Obama and their younger daughter Sasha vacate in Spain while their oldest daughter is spending a month at an undisclosed camp.

Clinton Promises Pakistan Support For Natural Disasters

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 13:31:46 -0700

]]> Secretary of State Hilary Clinton promises aid to Pakistan after the recent floodings and condemns latest suicide bombings

Hijabi Bassist Rocks Cairo

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:10:50 -0700

]]> Before getting up on stage, Shams Ahmed makes sure her hijab and pin are properly in place and adjusts the guitar straps so they don’t get stuck in her hijab.

Obama Praises Plan to Withdraw Troops from Iraq as a Promise Kept

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 23:27:09 -0700

]]> President Barack Obama says this month’s plan of withdrawing troops from Iraq comes “as promised and on schedule,” during a speech to the national convention of the Disabled American Veterans on Monday.

Rahm Emanuel's Fundraiser Declared a Success

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 16:22:23 -0700

]]> White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel’s fundraiser dinner hosted for Florida Democratic Senatorial candidate Kendrick Meek was a success in garnering Democratic support for the four-term House representative.

The End of the Iraq War Is Near: Obama

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 12:58:03 -0700

In a speech delivered Monday, President Barack Obama promises to remove 90,000 troops from Iraq by September of this year.

Food Justice for the Urban City

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 12:22:19 -0700

]]> Bay Area youth were drawn to Oakland this weekend, for an interfaith service day focused on food justice.

City Refuses to Landmark "Ground Zero Mosque"

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 11:53:38 -0700

]]> The Landmarks Preservation Commission in New York City decided Tuesday to reject the landmark status for 45-47 Park Place in lower Manhattan.

The Battle of the Veils

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 15:15:59 -0700

]]> In its first installment of the USATvs video series, USA TODAY contributing writer Souheila Al-Jadda, a Muslim American, and Muslim-American feminist Mona Eltahawy discuss whether the recent ban on veils in Europe should come to the U.S.

Everyone Loves a Free Lunch

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 11:30:38 -0700

]]> In his 2009 speech in Cairo, President Barack Obama promised to ensure that American Muslims would be able to give their Zakat, a religious obligation to give to those in need, despite a recent crackdown on Islamic charities.

Clinton Pledges $10 Million to Help Pakistan Flood Victims

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 08:11:22 -0700

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton promised $10 million in emergency funds to Pakistan to aid in the relief efforts after the catastrophic floods in the country’s northwest region.

Uzbek Government Accused of Forcibly Sterilizing Women

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 08:00:54 -0700

]]> Hundreds of Uzbek women say they were surgically sterilized without their consent.

Cat Poo Coffee Gets Halal Green Light

Sun, 01 Aug 2010 13:43:23 -0700

]]> Indonesia's top religious body has declared a premium coffee made from civet cat droppings fit for Muslims to drink.

Leap of Faith: Marrying Outside Your Religion

Sun, 01 Aug 2010 08:46:08 -0700

]]> Chelsea Clinton, raised Methodist, and Marc Mezvinsky, Jewish, was wed this weekend.

Jummah Tea Party Protest Against Temecula Mosque

Sun, 01 Aug 2010 06:25:57 -0700

]]> Heightened tension between Muslims and self-proclaimed American patriots are on the rise. With the Park51 protests inciting nation-wide Islamophobia, paired with accusations of Tea Party racism, it’s no wonder that one of the biggest battle grounds that brings these two heavyweight issues face to face is in our own backyard – Temecula, California.

Rahm Emanuel Promises $1.5 Billion for Struggling Farmers

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 17:27:47 -0700

Though President Barack Obama’s small business initiative was blocked by Senate Republicans this week, its addendum to support struggling farmers remains on the executive fiscal agenda.

Oil Industry Reform Bill Passes in House

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 10:49:52 -0700

]]> On Friday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill to impose new safety regulations on the offshore oil-drilling industry in light the recent oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico caused by the explosion of a drilling rig.

Iran Makes an Offer to the President: We Will Help Clean Up the Gulf

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 22:41:13 -0700

]]> Iran has offered to assist President Barack Obama in dealing with the massive Gulf of Mexico oil spill, the response to which many Americans say has not been swift and adequate enough on part of the Obama Administration.

Clinton to Discuss Cooperation With Indonesian Foreign Minister

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:05:07 -0700

]]> Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Indonesian Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa are scheduled for a series of diplomatic meetings in the coming months.

Texas Muslim Women's Group Helps All Domestic Abuse Vicitms

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 08:28:14 -0700

]]> The Texas Muslim Women's Foundation provides social services to people of all faiths while clearing misconceptions of Muslim women.

The Power of Knowing Your Rights

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 08:08:49 -0700

]]> In 2006 Ahmadullah Niazi, a 34-year-old regular at the Islamic Center of Irvine (ICOI), befriended Craig Morteilh, who presented himself as a recent immigrant who was interested in converting to Islam.

Clinton Welcomes New Sanctions Against Iran

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 22:56:28 -0700

]]> Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Secretary of Treasury Timothy Geithner approve of the new sanctions against Iran.

Clinton Provokes Chinese-U.S. Tensions

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 12:48:35 -0700

]]> Chinese officials respond to comments made by Secretary of State Hilary Clinton last Friday in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Rahm Emanuel Plans to Host Fundraiser for Florida Democrat

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 21:32:13 -0700

]]> White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel plans to hold a fundraiser for Democratic Representative Kendrick Meek (D-Fla.), who is competing for the Democratic nomination in Florida’s Senate race.

Obama Urges Congress to Support Small Business

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 13:30:05 -0700

]]> President Barack Obama spoke in a New Jersey Sandwich Shop on Wednesday, calling on Congress to put forth legislation that would provide financial incentives, and said he anticipates legislation to be passed by mid-August.

The Cost And Courage Of Wearing A Scarf: Hani Khan’s Story

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 12:52:16 -0700

]]> Hani Khan woke up on February 15 and got ready for her day. She laid out her clothes, put on some lip-gloss, and wrapped the hijab around her head, the religious head covering she has been wearing since kindergarten.

Emirati and Indian Culture to Meld in Mini-feature Mallal

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:05:28 -0700

]]> This summer, award-winning director Nayla Al Khaja, chief executive officer and producer of D-7 Motion Pictures, and a plethora of foreign collaborators from eight different countries will shoot the first ever Emirati Indian cross-cultural film Mallal, meaning bored in Arabic.

Groups Accuse the FBI of Ethnic Profiling

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 22:30:16 -0700

]]> Civil rights organizations are accusing the FBI of ethnic profiling and using mapping techniques to target the Muslim community.

Access to HIV/AIDS Prevention Should be Universal

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 17:45:22 -0700

]]> Secretary of State Hillary Clinton spoke at the 18th annual International AIDS Conference today in Vienna, Austria, saying that the United States is the largest financial supporter of global AIDS programs.

"Flowers of the Heart" Celebrates Spirit and Skill

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 11:21:25 -0700

]]> A few years ago Ustad Ghulam Farid Nizami was honored to be able to perform traditional Pakistani classical music during one of President George W. Bush's visits to Pakistan.

Obama: Leaked Documents Expose Nothing New

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 11:06:58 -0700

]]> In his first public comment regarding the leak of over 90,000 secret documents about the Afghanistan war, President Barak Obama says the information released is nothing new and has already been a part of the war debate.

Rahm Emanuel to Host Fundraiser for Kendrick Meek

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 08:08:02 -0700

]]> White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel is scheduled to host a fundraiser for Senate candidate Kendrick Meek (D-Fla.) on Aug. 2. The four-term House representative hopes to be the first black candidate elected to the Senate since President Barack Obama’s seat from Illinois.

Obama Asks Senate to Pass Campaign Funding Discloure Act

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:37:59 -0700

]]> President Barack Obama advised the U.S. Senate to pass a law that mandates groups to reveal the funding sources for their political ads, in a speech given at the White House today.

Obama and Clinton Pledge to Support Global AIDs and HIV Relief Efforts

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:36:43 -0700

]]> This Friday at the culmination of the 2010 International AIDs Conference, President Barack Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton promised US assistance in the international fight against HIV and AIDs.

Emanuel Takes on Big Business Critics

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 11:38:21 -0700

]]> Emanuel spoke on behalf of he Obama administration last Friday in response to a number of complaints from the business community.

Clean-up Resumes After Tropical Storm Bonnie Downgraded

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 10:35:12 -0700

]]> Cleanup resumed at the site of the blown-out BP well Saturday after threats of a tropical storm system delayed crews for three days.

Afghan War Docs Revealed

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:42:20 -0700

]]> Ninety-two thousand pieces of classified military documents were leaked online Sunday, detailing the United States' war in Afghanistan.

Obama Urges Iraqi Leaders to Form Government

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 20:30:07 -0700

]]> On Thursday, President Barack Obama urged Iraqi leaders to form a government at their earliest discretion as he announced that the military was ahead of schedule in its plan draw down troops. The Iraqi government to-be has been in a deadlock since the elections on March 7th which produced no decisive winner.

Egyptians Protest Torture in Alexandria

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 06:12:04 -0700

]]> On July 23, 2,500 Egyptians silently protested police brutality along Alexandria’s boardwalk.

Emanuel Set to Testify on Blagojevich’s Defense

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 01:17:59 -0700

]]> US Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel will be called to testify for the defense in former IL. Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s corruption trial, according to Attorney Sam Adam Jr.

UK Muslim Women Pay Tribute to Soldiers

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:06:49 -0700

]]> A group of Muslim women honored soldiers who died fighting for the UK by placing a wreath at the National Memorial Arboretum in England, according to the BBC.

Clinton: US-Vietnam Ties Are of Strategic Importance

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 01:47:44 -0700

]]> Continuing her trip through Southeast Asia, U.S. Secretary of State Hilary Clinton arrived in Hanoi, Vietnam on Thursday to meet with Vietnam’s Foreign Minister Pham Gia Khiem and other government officials to discuss the relationship between the two countries.

Clinton Advocates for Kosovo’s Recognition

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 19:41:25 -0700

]]> Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is calling upon all nations, including Serbia to recognize Kosovo’s independence from Serbia, which was supported by the International Court of Justice in the Hague.

Obama too ‘Unclear and Ambiguous’ for Palestine-Israeli Peace

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 09:26:02 -0700

]]> Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas criticized U.S. President Barack Obama on Wednesday at a closed meeting with members of the Fatah Revolutionary Council in Ramallah for not providing clarity in response to a number of questions surrounding the future of peace talks with Israel.

It was a Gun that Took Away Asama's Life

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 08:42:19 -0700

]]> On June 28, the Supreme Court upheld the right of Americans to own a gun for self-defense anywhere in this country, scoring a victory for the all-powerful gun lobby.

Emanuel May Stay in the White House Through 2011

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 22:05:53 -0700

]]> President Barack Obama’s Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel may be staying in the White House well through 2011, according to Washington insiders.

Obama Praises Yemen’s ‘Determination’ to Combat Extremists

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 14:49:18 -0700

]]> President Barack Obama praises Yemen’s efforts to fight terrorism on Thursday during a phone call with Yemeni President Ali Abdulla Saleh.

Clinton Announces New Nuclear Weapons Sanctions on North Korea

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 09:23:21 -0700

]]> Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Defense Secretary Robert Gates, in a highly publicized visit to Seoul, South Korea, announced new US sanctions upon North Korea in an effort to curb its nuclear weapons program.

Couple Revive Old-School Hip Hop

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 08:23:25 -0700

]]> You wouldn't know it if you looked at her. Christie Z-Pabon, a 41-year-old hijab-and-robe wearing Muslim American woman, is the curator of hip hop past.

Barack Obama Shows Support for Paycheck Fairness Act

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 16:24:44 -0700

]]> President Barack Obama released a statement Wednesday detailing his support for the elimination of wage discrimination.

Emanuel Pushes Senate Democrats to Break Bipartisan Stalemate

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 13:15:03 -0700

]]> Senate Democrats are expected to push a bill allotting $34 billion in unemployment benefits Tuesday, aimed at U.S. citizens who have remained unemployed for six months or longer.

Clinton unveils $500 million aid package for Pakistan

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:59:24 -0700

]]> Monday, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton unveiled a $500 million aid project for Pakistan.

Testimonies Reveal Emanuel’s Possible Involvement in Blagojevich Conspiracy Case

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:31:43 -0700

]]> It is reported that former Ill.Gov. Rod Blagojevich attempted to get White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel to host a fundraiser.

EXCLUSIVE: 'No Mosque at Ground Zero' SIOA Rally

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:19:41 -0700

]]> On June 6, "Stop Islamization of America (SIOA)" hosted a rally in lower Manhattan to protest the planned construction of a mosque near Ground Zero. Several hundred protesters had gathered in Zuccotti Park to voice their opposition to the selected location of a proposed community and prayer center.

Obama Corrects NASA Director on Muslim Outreach

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:17:47 -0700

]]> On July 6, NASA director Charles Bolden said in an interview with Al-Jazeera Network that reaching out to the Muslim world in joint space exploration projects was a primary goal of renewed NASA efforts. Two weeks of conservative pundit mockery and one "Daily Show" segment later, White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs corrected Bolden in his explanation of Obama’s vision for NASA.

Clinton Works to Change Perception of America

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:02:28 -0700

]]> U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton initiated talks with Pakistan in the capital city Islamabad on Sunday urging the Muslim state to play a stronger role in the ongoing conflict with Afghanistan.

Farewell From Yankees Stadium

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 02:30:34 -0700

]]> George Steinbrenner, who passed away July 13, was quoted during his introductory press conference as owner of Major League Baseball’s New York Yankees as saying “We plan absentee ownership as far as running the Yankees is concerned.”

Egypt College Senior Sells Personalized Crafts, Spreads Love

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 14:48:02 -0700

]]> Mona Mohamed is spreading the love in Cairo, Egypt -- one clay figure at a time. “It started as a hobby. I used to make cute little things for my friends for their birthdays and then it increased,” 20-year-old Mohamed said. “I gained more experience as time went by.”

Funny in Farsi Put On Hold

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 13:50:37 -0700

]]> Middle Eastern-Americans need to be on television, and not in the kind of 24 way playing Terrorist #1 and Terrorist #2.

Army Suicides on the Rise

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 13:47:59 -0700

]]> On June 23, a U.S. Army sergeant shot and killed himself outside an Alameda, Calif. recruitment office. On July 14, the Army released suicide data for the month of June.

Gulf Coast Oil Contained; Next Steps, Undecided

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 13:00:29 -0700

]]> 85 days after the explosion of BP's contracted drilling rig in the Gulf Coast, the leaking oil well has stopped spewing oil into the sea. BP and federal officials have not reached an agreement on what next steps will be, however.

Israeli Millionaire Builds Mosque

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 13:05:30 -0700

]]> A Jewish businessman has decided to fund the construction of a large Muslim house of worship in France. Robert Harush grew up in Ashkelon, Israel but has spent the last 10 years dividing his time between his homes in Europe and the Middle East.

Rahm Emanuel Overjoyed at Passing of Wall Street Overhaul Bill

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 12:17:18 -0700

]]> Rahm Emanuel was overjoyed as Congress passed the financial-overhaul bill, which places stiff restrictions on banks and Wall Street, limiting lending practices and increasing consumer protections.

Obama Needs to Re-modify Exit Strategy for Afghan War

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 23:03:01 -0700

]]> US politicians expressed their concern about Obama’s lack of an exit strategy to Afghanistan during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing that took place on Wednesday.

Clinton Condemns 'Horrific' Mosque Attacks in Iran

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 11:27:01 -0700

]]> U.S Secretary of State Hillary issued a statement Thursday condemning the “horrific twin suicide bombings carried out in the Sistan-Balochistan province of Iran. Clinton says those claiming responsibility should be held accountable for the actions.

Saudi Arabian Airlines Killed The Last Caliph

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 11:22:55 -0700

]]> Back when Muslims and Arabs had a major part to play in the Indian Ocean economy, a huge market crisscrossed by commerce they sustained and often extended. Today these monarchies enjoy more stability and success than neighboring republics (perhaps excepting Turkey); they suggest that non-modern forms of loyalty can outdo the Arab political modern.

On 'Draw Muhammad Day'

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 10:26:09 -0700

]]> When Seattle cartoonist Molly Norris was put on an Al Qaeda hit list for her "Draw Muhammad Day" project, my inbox started filling up.

MWA: Muslims With Attitude

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 09:58:44 -0700

]]> Most people when they think of rap music, they think of the Three B’s: bitches, blunts and Bentleys.

Hillary Clinton Advocates for Women's Rights in Afghanistan

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 23:53:49 -0700

]]> Secretary of State Hillary Clinton recently met with President, Hamid Karzai, to advocate for women’s rights in Afghanistan.

Emanuel and Jarret: No More Lax Business Regulation

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 19:07:26 -0700

]]> On Tuesday, White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel and senior adviser Valerie Jarrett sent a letter to the US Chamber of Commerce responding to concerns voiced by the chamber about excessive economic regulation under the current administration.

Pakistani Bombings Highlight Theological Tensions

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 13:53:24 -0700

]]> In a series of deadly attacks around Pakistan, a suicide bombing in Northwest Pakistan on last week killed at least 105 people, and injured at least 115 - the deadliest attack in the country this year. Two suicide bombers struck two areas seconds apart in the village of Yakaghund - a northwest tribal region called Mohmand- near a government office.

Terrorist Groups 'Do Not Regard African Life'

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 03:28:34 -0700

]]> President Barak Obama told the South African Broadcasting Corporation Tuesday that terrorist groups devalue the lives of Africans.

Iranian Woman Spared from Stoning

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 18:51:00 -0700

]]> Iranian officials decided not to sentence a widow to death by stoning but she may still face execution.

Clinton and Davutoğlu Discuss Turkey's Role in the Middle East

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 15:46:35 -0700

]]> In a phone conversation with Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu Monday, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton discussed the role of Turkey in the Middle East.

Obama's New Policy on Islam and Terrorism Hits a Roadblock

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 15:45:49 -0700

]]> As a part of his effort to bridge the gap between America and the Muslim world, President Barack Obama has laid out a White House policy of detaching any reference to Islam when talking about terrorists, be it Al-Qaeda, the Taliban or any other group.

Emanuel Says Removal of Russian 'Illegals' Sends a Message

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 15:42:34 -0700

]]> White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel said that the arrest of the 10 spies, and the guilty pleas this past week "sends a clear signal to, not only Russia, but other countries that will attempt this, that we are on to them."

Kicking Down Gracie Barra's Door

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 14:48:36 -0700

]]> When looking at the history of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in America, the Gracie Barra School plays such a crucial role. This amazing grappling art looks somewhere between judo and wrestling.

Data Darbar - Shrine of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 09:00:00 -0700

]]> On the evening of July 1, 2010 Data Darbar was attacked by suicide bombers, killing dozens of people and injuring many more. The attack reminded me of my visit to the shrine during my trip to Lahore in 2009.

Emanuel: Obama Takes Responsibility for Country's Economic Struggles

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 22:31:12 -0700

]]> Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel suggests President Barack Obama takes responsibly for the economy, despite placing the ultimate blame on President George W. Bush.

Tyson's Spiritual Journey

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 15:19:51 -0700

]]> Mike Tyson's life is a highlight reel of personal tragedy. Rising from petty criminal to heavyweight champion over a span of five years, it was assumed he would go on to become one of the greatest boxers of all time; however, his personal demons continued to haunt him leading him back into prison and the demise of his boxing career.

Obama Suspends Deepwater Oil Drilling Until November

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 12:15:36 -0700

]]> President Barack Obama sent a clear statement this Monday that he is committed to continue deepwater drilling after the administration fully investigates and enforces safety standards to avoid future hazards.

Clinton Condemns World Cup Terror

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 12:03:06 -0700

]]> In a statement released Monday morning, Secretary of State Hilary Clinton condemned attacks that had taken place in Kampala, Uganda. Thus far 74 deaths have been reported, 60 of which are native Ugandans, and the rest composed of foreigners.

Iran Cuts Down the Mullet

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 10:47:36 -0700

]]> Iran has established a national fashion faux pas and mullets top the list. Known for being short and maintained in the front while remaining long and loose in the back, the country’s strict Islamic regime banned the coiffure at this month’s Hijab and Chastity Festival.

Obama's New 'Silent Raids' Sneak Out of the Shadows

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 07:34:20 -0700

]]> Many illegal immigrants might be happy to hear that there won't be any more federal immigration raids at factories and farms.

That is, until they learn the Obama administration is replacing those raids by sending federal agents to search companies' records for illegal immigrant workers.

White House Chief of Staff Conveys President's Thanks

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:42:46 -0700

]]> White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel says the decision to conduct a spy swap between Russia and the United States was not made by President Barack Obama.

Clinton Builds Bridges With Muslim Community

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:36:25 -0700

]]> In an attempt to strengthen ties with the international Muslim community, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, alongside President Barack Obama, is making an effort to engage Muslims.

Obama Tells NASA Not to Alienate Muslim World

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:23:15 -0700

]]> NASA Administrator Charles Bolden expressed plans to utilize NASA programs for foreign diplomacy. The remarks made in an Al-Jazeera interview aired on June 30 resulted in a national debate as to the proper uses of NASA.

Radio for Palestinian women

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 12:12:38 -0700

]]> The World’s Matthew Bell reports on a unique radio station in Ramallah dedicated to Palestinian women.

Cricket a Mirror of Global Politics?

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 11:52:06 -0700

]]> Cricket, though not very popular in America is the world’s second most popular sport after soccer. In the past two years the developments in the cricketing world have pointed to some fascinating shifts in global realities.

Funds for 'Burqa Ban' Penalties

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:32:23 -0700

]]> French lawmakers passed a law Tuesday banning the full veil in public spaces. The veil, also known as a burqa, covers a woman's entire body, revealing just the eyes. The bill was well-received in Parliament and passed with a 336 to one vote.

Former BART Police Officer Apologizes

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 00:43:20 -0700

]]> Johannes Mehserle apologized publicly for the first time for killing 22-year old Oscar Grant on a BART station platform New Year's Day 2009.

Hundreds Protest in Oakland After Mehserle Verdict

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 20:08:45 -0700

]]> A Los Angeles jury convicted former BART police officer Johannes Mehserle of involuntary manslaughter Thursday. Hundreds of people convened in downtown Oakland to protest the verdict and remember Oscar Grant. the 22-year old was shot and killed by Mehserle New Year's Day 2009 at the Fruitvale BART station.

Call to Justice Answered? Mehserle Verdict: Guilty

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 16:20:46 -0700

]]> After over a year of protests and trial delays, a jury found a former transit officer guilty in the death of 22-year-old Oscar Grant. Officer Johannes Mehserle was found guilty today in a Los Angeles court of involuntary manslaughter, which carries a sentences of two to four years.

Bridging Wickets Through Cricket

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 12:35:50 -0700

]]> Cricket is wildly popular among South Asians, a passion that survives the journey of immigrants to the United States. Now cricket is gaining fans among some New York City police officers as a way to connect to New York’s growing South Asian communities. Correspondent Lily Jamali reports.

CNN Editor Canned Over Hezbollah Tweet

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 08:34:36 -0700

]]> Octavia Nasr was fired Wednesday over a controversial tweet she posted last week.

Questions and Tension in Aftermath of Kyrgyzstan Riots

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 08:12:38 -0700

]]> Officials want to know what sparked deadly inter-ethnic clashes in south Kyrgyzstan, which drove thousands from their homes. Investigators are exhuming bodies of those killed in the bloodshed against the Uzbek minority.

A Conversation with Willow Wilson

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 09:04:26 -0700

]]>

Join us on Saturday July 10, 2010 at 6 pm for an on-stage conversation with American author G. Willow Wilson about her latest books "The Butterfly Mosque" and graphic novel "Cairo". Tickets $7 general public and $5 for students.

Where the Homeless Live

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 23:10:22 -0700

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The homeless in America are invisible to most people even when they are within sight. These invisible individuals each have their own unique stories of struggle and survival.

Obama and Netanyahu Try to Rekindle the Flame

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 08:00:36 -0700

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President Barack Obama is expected to talk with Binyamin Netanyahu this Tuesday after their last meeting was cancelled in the wake of Israel’s deadly raid on an aid flotilla delivering goods to Gaza.

Emanuel Takes a Pay Cut But Still Makes Six Figures

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 08:05:02 -0700

]]> Congress released a full list of its White House employees and their salaries last Thursday.

Like most of President Barack Obama's senior aides, Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel makes $172,000 a year -- a sharp contrast from the $16 million he used to rake in as an investment banker.

Clinton Warns Against the 'Crushing of Civil Society'

Sat, 03 Jul 2010 07:52:32 -0700

]]>

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton warned against intolerant governments around the world this weekend while in Poland.

At a commemoration event celebrating the Council for a Community of Democracies’ tenth anniversary, Clinton said, “We must be wary of the steel vise in which governments around the world are slowly crushing civil society and the human spirit."

Relations Warm Up With Former Cold War Enemy

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 10:32:18 -0700

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A recent visit from Russian president Dmitry Medvedev to the U.S. has resulted in what President Barack Obama called reset relations, an improvement from what had dropped to a dangerous low in recent years.

Time to Recruit Lebron for the Next World Cup

Sat, 26 Jun 2010 08:29:06 -0700

]]> The ousting of the United States national soccer team by Ghana from the 2010 FIFA World Cup in the round of 16 was extremely disappointing.

Nobody picked the US to win the World Cup but they did have one of the easiest roads in this year’s tournament -- winning a group consisting of a 25th ranked Slovenian team, the 30th rank Algerians and a dreadfully underperforming English squad.

Ex-Muslim's True Past Emerges

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 22:47:56 -0700

]]>

Ergun Caner, President of Liberty University's Baptist Theological Seminary in Virginia, was recently let go from his post as seminary dean from the university for the story that previously propelled him within the conservative Christian circles - that he is a reformed Muslim, having turned his back on Islam and extremism after discovering Jesus in a church in Ohio.

Nikki Haley Wins Runoff; Favored to Win in November

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 17:08:35 -0700

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Nikki Haley won the Republican nomination for governor of South Carolina on Tuesday, easily defeating her opponent, Rep. Greshem Barrett, in the state's run-off election.

Shooting Kabul

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 14:15:22 -0700

]]>

"Shooting Kabul." The title would have you thinking it's a war story, a story about terrorism and heartbreak. And while it is all of those things, it's also a children's book, a story about starting fresh with a hole in your heart, and in your family. Above all, "Shooting Kabul" is a story about a kid with a camera and a taste for peanut butter.

King Khan Looks to Climb to the Top

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 14:05:17 -0700

]]>

What does one get when they cross boxing hall of fame trainer Freddie Roach, the Oscar De La Hoya-led Golden Boy Promotions and a quick-handed young boxer? If trends continue, a superstar.

Catholic Archbishop Condemns Anti-Mosque Phobia

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 23:30:30 -0700

]]>

In response to a controversies over the construction of a mosque near Ground Zero and on Staten Island, Archbishop Timothy Dolan, on his official blog condemned Islamophobic prejudice. Archbishop Dolan is the head of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York, which includes Manhattan, the Bronx and Staten Island.

School Cuts Raise Tuition

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 11:42:53 -0700

]]>

California State University trustees voted Friday to raise tuition at the nation's second-largest public university system. The proposal increased fees by 5 percent for undergraduate, graduate and teacher credential students as well as 10 percent for education doctorate students. It also lifted the cap on nonresident tuition.

Panic and Prejudice Over New Mosque in Tennessee

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 04:46:14 -0700

]]>

A proposal for a mosque re-location and expansion on the outskirts of Murfreesboro, Tennessee has ignited a firestorm of controversy, with many residents expressing fear of Muslims and hostility to Islam during a two hour public meeting at the Rutherford County Commission.

Clinton to Arizona: See You in Court

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 09:38:35 -0700

]]>

Although President Obama and Attorney General Eric Holder have said the Justice Department is still in the process of deciding whether to file suit over SB 1070, Arizona's controversial immigration law, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton stated in a recent television interview that the suit will be filed

UCLA Coach John Wooden

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 10:37:37 -0700

]]> I wept on Friday evening when I heard the news of the death of Coach John Wooden. I had seen him the day before at UCLA looking frail and tired after 99 good years—as long and rewarding a life as one could hope. Coach Wooden was ready for a good death, surrounded by family and friends, knowing that he would soon meet his beloved Nellie again, who had passed on some 25 years earlier.

Sufi Leader, Peacemaker Buried in Jerusalem

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 09:45:59 -0700

]]> Jews, Christians and Muslims prayed together as regional Sufi leader, Sheikh Abdul Aziz Bukhari was laid to rest in his home in Old City Jerusalem. On June 1 he passed away at the age of 61, after a long struggle with heart disease.

Allah and the Los Angeles Lakers

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 07:35:09 -0700

]]> On June 17, 2008, I turned 28. I also got to watch the Lakers get spanked in Game 6 of the NBA Finals, a 39-point shaming by the Boston Celtics. Nothing can more deeply wound a Lakers fan than to see his (my) team lose to the Celtics, let alone for the ninth time in the NBA finals, never mind by nearly 40 points in Boston.

Call for Kurdistan to Ban Female Genital Mutilation

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 01:17:45 -0700

]]>

Human Rights Watch report reveals the reality of female genital mutilation in Iraqi Kurdistan, and calls for action.

Bay Area Resident Shot and Killed in East Oakland

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 23:28:49 -0700

]]> On Friday, June 11, at 7:57 p.m. in the 8600 block of International Boulevard in East Oakland, 22 year old Samier Ayesh, a Hayward resident, was shot and killed outside the store his family owned.

Nikki Haley Faces Questions about Conversion from Sikhism to Christianity

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 10:39:36 -0700

]]> Nikki Haley, front-runner for the Republican nomination in South Carolina governor's race and a convert to Christianity, faces questions and doubts from some evangelical Christians about her religion.

Halal Meals on Wheels: Soup Kitchen Goes Mobile

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 09:43:55 -0700

]]> Lots of food trucks pepper city streets around the Bay Area, but there's only one bringing fresh, hot meals to the hungry.

Oklahoma Considers 'Shariah Ban'

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 22:26:36 -0700

]]> Oklahoma voters may be voting on a "shariah ban" in November. SQ 755 would amend the Oklahoma state constitution by forbidding state courts from considering shariah or other forms of international law in their rulings. The measure specifically refers to shariah.

College Group Faces Suspension

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 09:31:07 -0700

]]> School officials may suspend UC Irvine's Muslim Student Union for one year. The group is accused of repeatedly disrupting Israeli Ambassador Michael Oren last February.

Jerusalem Gets First Beach, Volleyball Tournament

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 17:31:31 -0700

]]> Mayor Nir Birkat of Jerusalem is officially inaugurating the opening of Jerusalem's first beach.

Japan Accused of Using Prostitutes, Bribes on Whaling Vote

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 13:27:38 -0700

]]> The Sunday Times (London, UK) claims that its undercover investigation shows Japan bribed officials from six small governments with cash and prostitutes to influence their votes on the International Whaling Commission (IWC).

Reform or Renounce? Ayaan Hirsi Ali and Muslim Women

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:57:24 -0700

]]>

Ayaan Hirsi Ali, the Somali-born former Dutch parliamentarian and fellow at the American Enterprise Institute is clear about one thing: There is no hope for Muslim women who do not renounce their faith.

Sending ‘Anchor Babies’ – and Parents – Home

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:37:43 -0700

]]> The latest in Arizona’s crackdown on illegal immigrants focuses on what some refer to as ‘anchor babies’ – a label that describes children born in the U.S. to illegal immigrants.

Hate Crimes on the Rise

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:28:36 -0700

]]> A Sunnyvale, Calif. man was beaten after allegedly being called a "terrorist."

Self-definition as Freedom

Sun, 13 Jun 2010 07:11:03 -0700

]]> Critical Self-Definition is the most significant challenge facing American Muslim communities today. This challenge is the product of an all too popular conversation on "Muslim pathologies" i.e. a "culture of terrorism" created by institutions and individuals who benefit materially from demonizing Muslims. Unfortunately, under the pressure of this pervasive discourse many American Muslims have let this external narrative determine how they see themselves and what their communities' priorities should be.

Radio Station Hopes to Reach Muslims With Latest Technology

Sun, 13 Jun 2010 07:06:57 -0700

]]> One Legacy Radio, a radio station created by young Muslim-American professionals, utilizes the latest technology in a bid to be more accessible to Muslims, distinguishing itself from many other stations.

Will Condoms Protect Against World Cup Fever?

Sat, 12 Jun 2010 16:33:21 -0700

]]> Soccer fans surged into South Africa this week, waving national flags and bearing face paint. The month-long World Cup 2010 kicked off with a celebration concert featuring Shakira and The Black Eyed Peas but the first round of games ended in a draw.

Saudi Man Kisses and the Cameras Tell

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 07:50:36 -0700

]]> 4 months of jail time and 90 lashes is the sentence given to a saudi man for kissing a woman in a public space.

Pro-Gay Rights Muslim Wins Primary

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 15:54:07 -0700

]]> Ako Abdul-Samad, a Muslim incumbent in the Iowa state legislature (and one of nine Muslim state legislators in the entire United States) easily defeated his challenger Clair Rudison Jr, a Christian minister, in Iowa’s Democratic primary on June 8. In the battle to represent House District 66 in Des Moines, Abdul-Samad got 74% of the vote to Rudison's 25%.

Defining 'We'

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 09:20:44 -0700

]]> We are all familiar with the great challenges our nation faces; high unemployment, health care reform, reductions in essential public resources and a long litany of other issues. American Muslims are no different from their neighbors in feeling the effects of the economic downturn and the impact of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Obama Looking for 'Ass to Kick'

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 08:50:37 -0700

]]> In response to criticism over the federal response to the Gulf Oil Spill, President Obama said he is consulting with experts so he can learn “whose ass to kick.”

It's the Occupation, Stupid

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 05:40:55 -0700

]]> With its deadly commando raid on a Gaza-bound humanitarian flotilla that left nine civilians dead and dozens injured, Israel once again resembles a self-destructive Goliath to much of the world.

Taking Back Our Religion

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 05:35:05 -0700

]]> In January, Dr. John Esposito of the Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding at Georgetown University, and one of America's foremost authorities and interpreters of Islam, spoke with fellows from the American Muslim Civic Leadership Institute about his new book, The Future of Islam. He spoke about Islam's rich tradition of renewal and reform as fundamental to the Islamic worldview.

Malcolm X Killer Released After 44 Years

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 17:49:22 -0700

]]> Forty four years after the brutal assassination of Malcolm X, the only suspect who admitted to his role in the murder was freed from prison.

Red Cross Trains Taliban in First Aid

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 12:32:50 -0700

]]> The International Committee of the Red Cross is in Afghanistan teaching the Taliban basic first aid and giving them medical equipment. The ICRC's situation report revealed that its workers assisted "over 100 Afghan security personnel, over 70 members of the armed opposition, taxi drivers involved in the transport of wounded people, first-aiders and its own staff" in April.

Arab-Americans Reflect on Obama

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 11:45:19 -0700

]]> Reporter Lily Jamali speaks with Arab-Americans in New York about whether President Obama’s speech in Cairo one year ago has made a difference to them.

Obama's Muslim Strategy 2.0

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 10:31:52 -0700

]]> One year ago in Cairo, Barack Obama promised “a new beginning” for America and Islam.

Mom Denied Foster Kids Because She Won't Serve Pork

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 10:09:06 -0700

]]> A potential foster parent in Maryland is being denied the chance to provide a stable, caring environment for foster children in need of nurturing all because she does not eat pork.

Moral Failure of Dubai

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 10:44:04 -0700

]]> “Dubai may have the world’s tallest building and the world’s largest shopping mall, but it also has the world’s tiniest soul.”

Flotilla Raid Floats International Call to Ending Gaza Blockade

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 09:27:07 -0700

]]> Israeli soldiers attacked a flotilla of aid-carrying ships early Monday in international waters off the coast of the Gaza Strip. Ten people were reportedly killed on board and twenty others wounded,when troops from the Israeli Defense Force raided the six-ship convoy. Dubbed the Freedom Flotilla, the convoy carried 700 passengers from thirty countries bringing 10,000 tons of humanitarian aid to the impoverished Palestinian city of Gaza.

Thousands Protest Arizona Immigration Law in San Francisco

Mon, 31 May 2010 10:48:22 -0700

]]> Thousands of Bay Area residents joined forces Saturday in San Francisco to protest the passage of Arizona’s controversial immigration bill, SB 1070.

Prayerful Protest in Phoenix

Sun, 30 May 2010 16:35:33 -0700

]]> Tens of thousands took to the streets of Phoenix to protest the new immigration policies of Arizona on Saturday. Protesters were diverse, hailing from as far as east coast states and representing various faith traditions and ethnicities.

Arab TV Station Spotlights Women Others Ignore

Sat, 29 May 2010 16:24:06 -0700

]]> If you are a single mother, or a victim of rape or domestic violence, chances are you will not show up on Arab television. Those topics are taboo even for channels like Al-Jazeera Arabic, except for occasional segments.

Por Que No Burqa?

Sat, 29 May 2010 15:53:00 -0700

]]> Two months after 9/11, I was at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York for the World Economic Forum summit that was moved there from Davos and I was talking with Rabbi Meir Lau, the Chief Rabbi of Israel, when a vaguely familiar diminutive woman walked over and held her hand out to the Rabbi.

Swimsuits Bare Little on Turkish Catwalks

Sat, 29 May 2010 00:20:08 -0700

]]> This is not your typical fashion show. The show is highlighting Islamic women's clothing -- even though very few of the models working here are Muslim.

Driving the Bus Out of Islam

Fri, 28 May 2010 16:17:38 -0700

]]> Soon, a bus trip in a city nearby may leave you questioning your faith.

Pamela Geller, the conservative bikini blogger behind the site Atlas Shrugs, has sponsored a month-long ad campaign to run on at least 30 city buses in New York. The ads direct passengers to a website Geller created called RefugeFromIslam.com that aims to assist Muslims in leaving the religion.

New Yorkers Come Out to Level Proposed Ground Zero Mosque

Thu, 27 May 2010 18:07:07 -0700

]]> A New York City community board voted Tuesday to support a Muslim-led plan to build a mosque near ground zero. 150 people packed the Manhattan Community Board 1 meeting and four hours of heated debate ultimately culminated in a 29-to-1 vote of residential approval.

EXCLUSIVE: New Yorkers Protest Proposed Ground Zero Mosque

Thu, 27 May 2010 18:00:05 -0700

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On May 25, 2010 Community Board Hearing was held to review proposal plans for Mosque and Islamic Cultural Center, known as Cordoba House. A controversial vote was cast in favor of building 15-story high Islamic Community and Prayer Center by Ground Zero, New York City.

Gulf Oil Spill: Biggest in US History

Thu, 27 May 2010 13:33:33 -0700

]]> Having surpassed the Exxon Valdez oil spill of 1989 in Alaska, the Gulf of Mexico oil spill is the biggest oil disaster in United States history, according to federal scientists.

A Troubling Cultural Gap

Wed, 26 May 2010 12:26:53 -0700

]]> A symbol of hope for Muslim American reformers can be found in the heart of Manhattan's West Village, the home base of a man who epitomizes the kind of spiritual leadership that so many young American Muslims yearn for.

'Sex and the City 2's' stunning Muslim clichés

Wed, 26 May 2010 12:07:24 -0700

]]> I'm a heterosexual, Muslim dude who until recently thought pleated khakis and loafers were "hip" and mistook Bergdorf Goodman for an expensive Swiss chocolate. So it is not surprising that 40 minutes into "Sex and the City 2," a 150-minute cotton candy fantasy accessorized with materialism and fashion porn, I was comatose with boredom.

Towards a Younger, Hipper Islam

Wed, 26 May 2010 09:30:01 -0700

]]> When talking to those of my generation and younger from the Muslim American community, an oft-mentioned challenge is a disconnect from the Islam one knows and believes in and the messaging received in places of worship.

The Creolization of Islam

Wed, 26 May 2010 08:43:47 -0700

]]> There has been a lot of research and reporting on Muslim populations living in the United States and Europe. That work often centers around issues of identity and integration. And these issues are often portrayed as being unique to the “West.”

TV Soap Dramatizes Islam's Cultural Clashes

Wed, 26 May 2010 08:26:12 -0700

]]> Most weeknights since March 8, 21-year-old college senior Alia Dahhan has rushed home to tune in to "El Clon" to watch her favorite character Jade on the Spanish-speaking network Telemundo. "As a Muslim woman, I feel it is almost a duty to watch the show, not only for entertainment purposes but to be able to discuss my opinions with other non-Muslim and non-Arab viewers of the show," said Dahhan, who attends Pace University's Lubin School of Business in New York and is president of the Muslim Student Association at the university.

The Butterfly Mosque

Tue, 25 May 2010 18:08:11 -0700

]]> Meet G. Willow Wilson. She's an American. She lived in Egypt for a while. She converted to Islam. She fell in love with a local. She wrote a book about all of this called The Butterfly Mosque. You should read it.

Gil Scott Heron's Revolution Is Being Televised in Tel Aviv

Tue, 25 May 2010 14:42:48 -0700

]]> Gil Scott Heron made sure his revolution was not televised in Tel Aviv but some prominent people are broadcasting his message anyway.

The Blue Interview With Ahmad James, Affectionately Known as Baraka Blue

Mon, 24 May 2010 13:01:47 -0700

]]> Late one evening I was fixated on my laptop screen with several windows open: editing material, dodging Facebook junkies, replying to correspondence and sifting through my inbox. Typical late night multitasking. I came upon one particular email with an audio file attached.

A Hero Hidden by Media Bias

Fri, 21 May 2010 16:07:30 -0700

]]> Arab and Muslim media coverage of the failed car-bombing in New York’s Times Square aimed to fill holes in U.S. mainstream media reporting and expose its biases.

Confronting Tyrants

Fri, 21 May 2010 06:55:41 -0700

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Listening to men and women women testify at the Oslo Freedom Forum in April, I thought how apropos it was that the night before I flew to Oslo I had attended a performance in London of “Macbeth,” Shakespeare’s depiction of a “bloody-sceptered” tyrant, which could have applied to any number of the dictators we heard of.

Politics From the Ground Up

Thu, 20 May 2010 14:42:46 -0700

]]> Getting involved in local politics is important. It impacts your daily life, from local philanthropy to building and zoning. With local elections coming up, the impetus is on minority groups and local philanthropic organizations to get to know their local candidates. Local politics affects you, from the zoning and construction in your neighborhood to the taxation of your property. Research your local candidates and find out what they stand for-- because their values could affect your daily life.

FUND THIS STORY: Making it Count: U.S. Census Workers Face Obstacles with Arab Americans

Thu, 20 May 2010 08:20:00 -0700

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Arab-Americans have a sense of mistrust towards the federal government, especially since 9/11 and the introduction of the Patriot Act, which has impacted many minority communities. Yet community activists are working to convince the Arab-Americans of important benefits of an accurate census count. Not to mention, it’s the law.

Middle East Gets Countrified

Thu, 20 May 2010 07:40:38 -0700

]]> Egyptian-American country singer Kareem Salama embarked last month on a US-sponsored multi-million dollar tour across the Middle East. The Oklahoma born and bred Muslim will perform in Egypt, Morocco, Kuwait, Bahrain, Syria, Jerusalem, and Jordan as part of a public diplomacy outreach effort by President Obama's administration.

How Miss USA Will Push the Secret Muslim Agenda

Wed, 19 May 2010 19:11:00 -0700

]]> This is a transcription and translation of a meeting recently held in Arizona, U.S.A, the global headquarters for Evil Muslims Worldwide, Inc.™ Several evil dignitaries were present either in person or via Skype. Their identities have been protected.

South Park Gets Facebook's Pakistani Visa Revoked

Wed, 19 May 2010 12:47:48 -0700

]]> A call to use social-networking as a tool to promote free speech has one Muslim country blocking access to the king of all social media sites: Facebook.

Rearrange Your Head

Wed, 19 May 2010 08:05:19 -0700

]]> When she came to speak at New York University, she packed the room. It might have been the weirdest crowd I’d ever seen at an Islamic Center at NYU event. (Okay, “weird” is likely too strong—how about odd?) One half of the room were comic book fans who had probably never attended an event hosted by a Muslim institution, and the other half were Muslims awkwardly admitting to themselves and the world that they loved comic books.

The Interfaith Approach to Eradicating Malaria

Wed, 19 May 2010 07:58:35 -0700

]]> This year, 30 young faith leaders combined efforts to eradicate deaths due to malaria worldwide. Hafsa Arain, a Muslim and Tim Brauhn, a Roman Catholic, teamed up in the San Francisco Bay Area for this purpose. They are one of 15 faith pairs who took action in 12 major cities throughout the United States, Canada and UK. We spoke with Arain to learn how she became involved with this multi-faith action program.

The Politics Behind the Miss America Pageant

Tue, 18 May 2010 09:32:53 -0700

]]> Every American girl's dream was won Sunday nightby a Lebanese immigrant when 24-year-old Rima Fakihof Dearborn, MI was crowned Miss USA 2010.

Noam Chomsky Denied Entry Into West Bank

Mon, 17 May 2010 19:47:59 -0700

]]> Professor Noam Chomsky, famed linguist and American intellectual, was denied entry into the West Bank this past Sunday. Chomsky was scheduled to speak at the Birzeit University in Ramallah but was turned away at the Allenby Bridge, which connects Jordan to the West Bank, by orders of the Israeli Interior Ministry.

Arizona Unwittingly Puts Divestment on the Front Page

Mon, 17 May 2010 11:42:10 -0700

]]> In response to Arizona legislation that critics say targets Latinos in the state, cities across the nation are cutting business ties with the Grand Canyon State. But will divestment force Arizona to change its stance?

Takin' It to the Street Was Never So Cool

Mon, 17 May 2010 10:40:10 -0700

]]> This summer's calendar of events once again includes the Inner-City Muslim Action Network's bi-annual one-day summer festival called "Takin' It To The Streets."

The New Miss USA: Progress or Bigger Problems for Muslims?

Mon, 17 May 2010 06:00:52 -0700

]]> Long before the now-infamous scantily clad pictures of the newly crowned Miss USA gyrating against a pole surfaced, the debate surrounding Rima Fakih's triumph was already well under way in certain households.

New York’s Pakistani Community

Tue, 11 May 2010 17:34:33 -0700

]]> Lily Jamali reports on how the New York City Police Department is reaching out to the Pakistani community there in the wake of the failed Times Square bombing. The man facing charges for the plot is a Pakistani American, and the Pakistani community fears a backlash.

Last Chance for Middle East Peace?

Mon, 10 May 2010 12:13:22 -0700

]]> It’s amazing that David Gardner and Christopher Caldwell both write for The Financial Times. Caldwell’s Reflections on the Revolution in Europe: Immigration, Islam, and the West makes the reader feel more like his wearied psychologist than anything else.

Illume Blazes New Frontiers in Digital Journalism

Fri, 07 May 2010 05:15:40 -0700

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Illume Magazine's first ever event on digital journalism is more than a first for Illume -- it's a first of its kind in a push to counter extremism and educate people on eliminating bias in the media.

Looking Like Them

Thu, 06 May 2010 16:19:34 -0700

]]> “You’re beginning to look like them,” an Egyptian policeman told me one day at Cairo airport during the year I lived in Israel. As had become routine upon my arrival to or departure from Cairo, I had to clear security.

White Intifida: The Non-Violent Resistance

Wed, 05 May 2010 10:18:36 -0700

]]> There was the Orange revolution in the Ukraine. And last last year, the Green Revolution in Iran. Now, there's the White Intifada in the Palestinian Territories. Hasting Law Professor, George Bisharat says, "The White Intifada is a growing movement that is gaining support worldwide."

Against Terror, Our Liberty is Our Best Defence

Wed, 05 May 2010 07:47:38 -0700

]]> The arrest of Faisal Shahzad, a 30-year-old US citizen of Pakistani descent, as the alleged driver of the vehicle used in the failed Times Square bombing represents an opportunity to respond effectively to a potential act of terrorism – instead of reacting with fear and hysteria that will inevitably be manipulated by extremist elements.

Birthers: "Illegitimate Obama Is Illegal Alien No. 1"

Tue, 04 May 2010 07:37:00 -0700

]]> The Nativist sentiment in America is rooted in the earliest history of the United States – whether it was the Italians, Jews or Germans, the Chinese, Japanese, or African Americans, it’s been a messy ordeal. Much like the current immigration bill in Arizona, a contentious law aimed at addressing border security that was approved by state governor Jan Brewer.

Why One Saudi Woman Decided to Leave Saudi Arabia?

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 08:13:01 -0700

]]> On April 5th, Hassna’a Mokhtar celebrated her first birthday in Montreal, she moved here from Saudi Arabia just last month. It was a busy day for her, as she was buying furniture and cleaning up her new apartment, but her in-laws threw a surprise party that turned it into a memorable day. She turned 33.

Border Security Leads to Citizen Insecurity

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 20:31:35 -0700

]]> Much to the dismay of immigration rights activists everywhere, the Arizona state senate bill that calls for increased border security was approved by governor Jan Brewer. The bill aims to secure the state’s southern border by unveiling a “strong, responsible, and detailed plan of action” to address immigration issues.

Parked

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 20:24:53 -0700

]]> As a fan of South Park going all the way back to its debut in '97, I just have to sort of shake my head at the dust-up that's been working its way through the news cycle since last Wednesday. When the banner 200th episode of Comedy Central's signature series poked at the notion (erroneous, in my opinion) that any depiction of Islam's Prophet Muhammad is disallowed in the media for fear of backlash by extremist-types, it inevitably led to a backlash by some extremist-types. Ah, sweet irony.

Pakistan's Rock 'N' Roll Jihad

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 04:40:44 -0700

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With over 30 million records sold, Salman Ahmad and his band Junoon have become the largest selling South Asian rock group, of all time. He has worked with the likes of Melissa Etheridge, Mick Jagger and Led Zeplin. Now he is using his music against conservative and extremist elements - groups that are trying to impose their ideology on the society and culture of Pakistan.

San Francisco Hate Crimes On The Rise

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 00:42:40 -0700

]]> We usually hear about hate crimes when Muslims are the victims. When a girl's hijab is pulled off on the school bus or obscenities are spray painted along the wall of a masjid, the community rallies and cries foul. But what happens when it's Muslims who are the perpetrators of a hate crime? Apparently, six months in jail.

Being Out and Being Muslim

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 14:09:00 -0700

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Often, individuals who identify as non-heterosexual are found in the fringes of not only societies, but communities and families as well. They are often over-looked and cast aside as individuals that have a place only in the margins of society, safe in the outer-realms of our comfort zone.

Voices From The Muslim World

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 07:21:55 -0700

]]> This week on New America Now - Voices From the Muslim World: Stephen Franklin talks about the dangers faced by Arab bloggers in the Middle East, author Reza Aslan the "clash of civilizations" mentality in No god But God, Sumbul Ali-Karamali explains how Muslim women are participating in society and changing the world in The Muslim Next Door, and filmmaker Parvez Sharma on his award winning documentary Jihad for Love which shows the pressure of being a gay Muslim.

Spicing Up a Humdrum Marriage: Is Swapping the New Thing?

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 01:25:45 -0700

]]> A bizarre sexual revolution is gaining momentum in Asia: spouse-swapping. Hordes are swarming the Web for couples of a like mind using the new buzzword. Pakistan, India, the Middle East and China all seem to be shadowing the hub of this queer phenomenon, Italy.

Feds Point Finger at Goldman's Sachs of Gold

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 10:06:26 -0700

]]> A recent civil lawsuit filed by the United States Securities and Exchange commission alleges that Goldman Sachs “misled investors who bought a mortgage-related instrument known as Abacus 2007-AC1 by not disclosing that the security was devised to fail,” reported the New York Times.

America's Muslim Roots: A Conversation With Jonathan Curiel

Sat, 17 Apr 2010 10:46:33 -0700

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On Saturday, April 24, Islam and Authors will have an on-stage conversation with Jonathan Curiel about his book Al 'America: Travels Through America's Arab and Islamic Roots.

A Stranger to the Arabs

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 07:45:21 -0700

]]> He seems to overfill the social categories of religion, language, ethnicity, national origin, and nationality. Not to mention the music to which he’s dedicated his life’s labor to. No one can be certain he’d ever be able to answer the oversimplified, but purportedly voluntary, questions about race and ethnicity we’ve all had to fret over at some point in our lives.

Divesting From Injustice

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 23:39:48 -0700

]]> It was with great joy that I learned of the recent 16-4 vote at UC Berkeley in support of divesting the university's money from companies that enable and profit from the injustice of the Israeli occupation of Palestinian land and violation of Palestinian human rights.

Justice Stevens' Gavel Leaves a Mark on History

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 15:39:11 -0700

]]> Justice doesn't need to be blind. Impartial justice can be an asset to Americans and those living within our borders. But the impartiality of justice, at the national level, relies largely on the availability of Supreme Court Justices that lean in both directions: left and right.

Obama's International Nuclear Problem

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 12:31:18 -0700

]]> Perhaps the greater battle standing between the president and his agenda is a perception around the world that nuclear arms falling into the wrong hands is not as great a threat as Mr. Obama believes it to be.

Hutaree: Another Man's Freedom Fighter

Sun, 11 Apr 2010 02:03:06 -0700

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Last month, Federal Bureau of Investigation authorities launched several raids against a Christian militia group known as the “Hutaree.” According to the authorities, members of the group had allegedly planned to kill a police officer and then kill more officers by bombing his funeral.

Security at the Cost of Freedom

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 21:42:19 -0700

]]> The No Fly List controversy takes off once again with a lawsuit filed by Rahinah Ibrahim who was arrested upon her arrival in San Francisco at a United Airlines ticket counter five years ago. It turned out to be a case of false positive but Ms. Ibrahim who was a Stanford doctoral student, decided to sue.

San Francisco's Top Cop Stumbles to an Apology

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 08:31:11 -0700

]]> San Francisco is an eclectic city, home to all walks of life and known for its international flavor and open-minded residents. While its mayor is known to stand up for egalitarian causes and laud civil rights efforts, the city's outspoken police chief seems to be a different story.

Website Leaks Video of Civilian Killings in Iraq

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 20:57:47 -0700

]]> On Monday, April 5, the nonprofit independent media site WikiLeaks.org released a video online of an U.S. Apache helicopter attack on Iraqi civilians from July 12, 2007.

SF Police Chief: Muslims a Possible Threat

Sat, 03 Apr 2010 09:12:47 -0700

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When one of the nation's top cops in one of the nation's top cities says members of its Muslim community are potential terror suspects, it puts the Muslim community on edge, and at risk.

What Drives Chechen Terrorism

Fri, 02 Apr 2010 22:47:03 -0700

]]> Doku Umarov’s message to Russia through a video released shortly after the subway blasts in Moscow that killed 39 commuters during rush hour earlier this week, is fomenting fear of an extensive bombing campaign launched by insurgents in Russia’s heartland.

Marriage: A Beginner's Guide

Fri, 02 Apr 2010 11:44:50 -0700

]]> Everyone has sketched an image of an ideal spouse, which is usually no less perfect than the Platonic Forms. Though there is nothing wrong in desiring a beautiful wife or a financially well-off bloke, you probably want to go beyond the superficial before you commit yourself to that person.

In The Name of Honor

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 10:17:06 -0700

]]> The recent murder of a 16-year-old Muslim girl reportedly buried alive by family members in southeastern Turkey puts the hot button issue of honor killings in the Islamic World back on the front burner.

Footnotes in Gaza

Sun, 28 Mar 2010 20:15:27 -0700

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Footnotes in Gaza provides a look into events that are almost entirely unknown except to those who were alive in Khan Younis and Rafah in 1956.

Is France Right to Ban Wearing The Burka in Public?

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 07:34:37 -0700

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As a Muslim woman and as a feminist I support banning the face veil, everywhere and not just in France where they are to vote on a resolution and possibly a ban on wearing the garment in public places [hospitals, schools and public transport, but not in the streets] after regional elections end.

Pictures of Pakistan Series – Wazir Khan Mosque

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 07:25:31 -0700

]]> Upon entering Wazir Khan Mosque, you are immediately taken aback by its beauty, especially during sunset. The din of the adjacent street vanishes, providing a quite place to pray and reflect.

Rachel Corrie's Voice

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 09:06:51 -0700

]]> Rachel Corrie was a 23-year-old peace activist killed by a bulldozer driven by an Israeli army soldier. The time, day and place of her death are known, but, the question of whether she was murdered or whether her death was an accident continues to be as controversial today as it was when it happened March 16, 2003.

A Response to Anwar Al Awlaki

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 12:43:47 -0700

]]> According to a report by CNN, U.S. born "cleric" Anwar Al-Awlaki urges "jihad" against the United States. In an audio message, Awlaki purportedly has said, "With the American invasion of Iraq and continued U.S. aggression against Muslims, I could not reconcile between living in the U.S. and being a Muslim, and I eventually came to the conclusion that jihad against America is binding upon myself just as it is binding on every other Muslim."

Digital Journalism in the Age of Multi-Media Story Telling

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 08:07:31 -0700

]]> The Bay Area is the world's innovation hub with technology that is profoundlychanging the way news is being consumed and reported on. Learn cutting edge skills from award-winning media professinals on what it takes to produce effective and engaging content in today's digital age of multi-media story telling.

Banned Muslim Scholar Slated to Speak in U.S.

Sun, 21 Mar 2010 21:24:20 -0700

]]> Muslim scholar and author Tariq Ramadan who had been previously banned from the United States, is now allowed entry in this country and is already scheduled to make his first appearance.

Knowing Palestine Through Edward Said

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 22:14:26 -0700

]]> Najla Said's one-woman show is a gripping narrative of a father and daughter relationship, identity in the West, and the feeling of being "out of place" for both the father and the daughter.

My Memory of Abdul Sattar Rydhan

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 13:55:10 -0700

]]> I was just a college freshman then, as I sat face to face with Abdul Sattar Rydhan at his home in San Jose. Tape recorder, notebook and pencil in hand, I was ready to begin my first interview for an assignment I had taken on in Dr. Hatem Bazian’s course on the development of Islam in America.

A Teacher's Financial Struggle

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 09:02:21 -0700

]]> Phil Black meets a teacher in Kabul struggling to provide for her family on her government wage.

Maureen Dowd Meets Islam

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 23:55:10 -0700

]]> Maureen Dowd tells us, at the end of her most recent column [“Pilgrim Non Grata in Mecca”], that she was “surprised” to learn that Abraham, father of the Jews, built the Ka’ba, Islam’s holiest shrine.

Islam Online Goes Offline

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 11:08:59 -0700

]]> This week, on the 15th of March, I recalled the Shakespearean play "Julius Caesar" and posted on my Facebook wall, "Beware the Ides of March." Little did I know it would foreshadow what would be happening to me in the U.S. and numerous other courageous and intelligent journalists in Cairo, Egypt.

Manuscripts

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 23:56:04 -0700

]]> Chinguetti, a medieval trading center founded in the 13th century is now home for some libraries full of ancient manuscripts. Here the library of the Fondation Ahmed al Mahmoud in Chinguetti, Mauritania. Photo by RoadWarrior

Women Judges Under Threat in Egypt

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 23:23:54 -0700

]]> Over the past 8 years, Egypt made great strides in women’s rights when it started appointing women as judges. That move met with great resistance and now, there’s a move to ban women judges altogether. Ursula Lindsey reports from Cairo.

Spiritual Sounds for Haiti

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 08:50:30 -0700

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Energize your soul AND help earthquake victims!

Sharia Arbitration in Britain

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 22:05:50 -0700

]]> Two years ago Britain’s Archbishop of Canterbury provoked a storm of criticism by suggesting it might be necessary for the British legal system to incorporate certain aspects of sharia for its Muslim citizens.

Event Explores Social Networking and Islam

Sun, 14 Mar 2010 20:15:07 -0700

]]> This past week signified the continuation of the Islam Today: Youth, and New Media series put on by the Centers of Middle Eastern Studies, South Asia Studies, and Southeast Asia Studies of UC Berkeley.

Remembering Aminah Assilmi

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:25:48 -0800

]]> I did not meet her personally, but I attended a debate she was having with journalist Deborah Scroggins at the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee.

Jihad Jane and the Muhammad Cartoons

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 10:32:19 -0800

]]> The recent arrest of American Colleen LaRose (who reportedly called herself Jihad Jane online) and seven individuals for allegedly plotting the murder of Swedish Cartoonist Lar Vilks, could be a teachable moment.

Influential Cleric Issues Fatwa Against Terrorism

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 13:51:43 -0800

]]> An influential Pakistani cleric issued a 600-page fatwa on March 2, described as an "absolute" condemnation of terrorism without "any excuses or pretexts."

Old Delhi

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 11:41:43 -0800

]]> Boys in a mosque at Delhi. Photo by deesign.

Writing on the Wall

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 10:33:58 -0800

]]> Muhammad Ali (Aerosol Arabic) takes graffiti-art and weaves it together with live spoken-word poetry in a theater space.

Amreeka

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 09:38:51 -0800

]]> Award-winning filmmaker Cherian Dabis makes her directorial debut with "Amreeka," (2009) a semi-biographical account of a mother and son trading in war-torn West Bank for small town Illinois.

Zaytuna's Quest to be the West's First Muslim College

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 12:43:58 -0800

]]> As interested students race to beat the fast approaching enrolment deadline, Muslims are turning their sights to the Zaytuna College in California to see if America's first ever Muslim college will live up to the high expectations.

Anwar Ibrahim Discusses Trial, Muslim Issues

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 23:01:36 -0800

]]> Malaysia's opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim, who is on trial in Kuala Lumpur on sodomy charges for a second time, speaks to Wajahat Ali about the controversy and discusses the country's ethnic and religious conflicts as well as issues facing the Muslim world.

Being a Black Muslim in Contemporary America

Sun, 28 Feb 2010 23:59:29 -0800

]]> Fahad Farruqi caught up with Preacher Moss of the group 'Allah Made Me Funny', to talk about what being a Black Muslim in contemporary America means.

Film Festival Presents Movies on Islam

Sun, 28 Feb 2010 15:48:41 -0800

]]> The Berlin Film Festival, which came to a conclusion this weekend, became a platform for movies that dealt with Islam in one way or another. Three movies featuring Muslim characters were showcased at the festival and vied for the Golden Bear, the festival’s top honor.

Creativity and the Spiritual Path

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 09:03:10 -0800

]]> Creativity & the Spiritual Path is a gathering of conversations. The intention is to facilitate dialogue on topics relevant to Artists, Designers, Musicians, Directors, Writers, Thinkers and Creative types linked by an interest in Spirituality and Islam.

Mute Man Talking

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 22:47:48 -0800

]]> Hip-hop artist Amir Sulaiman with brothers Hamza and Suliman Perez of the MTeam

The Wolfman's Joe Johnston

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 22:33:21 -0800

]]> To look at Joe Johnston's thirty-plus year film career is to see a snapshot of Hollywood history.

Pop Star Turns Public Figure

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 20:29:10 -0800

]]> SheSoWriteous host Yahsmin Mayaan Binti BoBo continues into the second episode of her new podcast featuring an interview with Islamic Relief rep and Native Deen member, Naeem Muhammad.

A Journey by Any Means Necessary

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 13:09:46 -0800

]]> A day after President Barack Obama ushered in a new chapter of American history, it was a cold, snow filled day in New York.

Daughters of Facebook Generation

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:57:52 -0800

]]> Mona Eltahawy speaks at "Islam and the Media: Who Speaks for Islam?" presented by The University of Colorado at Boulder Center for Media, Religion and Culture.

Rumors of a Facebook Fatwa Strike at the Core of Society

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 12:27:08 -0800

]]> Like any other social media platform, Facebook hosts a wide range of users, some looking for intellectual stimulation, and some others looking to seek companionship.

London Exhibit Showcases Inventions from Islamic Civilizations

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 22:21:07 -0800

]]> The London Science Museum recently opened an interactive exhibition titled 1001 Inventions: Discover the Muslim Heritage in Our World that is proving to be quite popular, educating people about the technological achievements originating from Muslim civilizations.

Burqa Barbie: News Anchor

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 13:36:18 -0800

]]> After fans decided to make Barbie's new career a TV journalist in an online vote, Mona Eltahawy wonders why an Italian designer recently chose to outfit a "Muslim" Barbie in a burqa.

The King of Bollywood's Muslim Roots

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 10:21:04 -0800

]]> By no means am I a Bollywood (Indian Cinema) fan. I have only seen a handful of Bollywood movies in my life and never watched one in a theater – before last night.

Thinking Out Loud About The French Veil Ban

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 19:30:55 -0800

]]> I must admit that I have mixed feelings about the recommendation in France to ban, if only partially, the full face veil, or niqab. Clearly, there is barely concealed disgust for the niqab - and hijab, for that matter - in France.

Charter School Finances Come Under Fire

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 09:54:57 -0800

]]> The FAME charter school in Fremont was recently the subject of an audit by the Fremont Unified School District in which it was discovered that founder Maram Alaiwat received substantial compensation for her role as director.

Swiss Politician's Conversion Sparks Rumors

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 23:11:08 -0800

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The recent passage of a ban on the construction of minarets in Switzerland has a very interesting side story. A member of the political party that pushed for the minaret ban announced that he had become a Muslim.

IMAN at the Apollo

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 21:21:14 -0800

]]> Pictures from the IMAN Central event at the Apollo Theater in New York

Reflections in Aswan

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 11:53:46 -0800

]]> The hidden color of the Muslim world.

One Spiritual Unit

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 11:08:53 -0800

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It took a trip to New York approximated at 5,793 miles within a tight 22 hour window of time for me to affirm one thing – the Muslim Arts movement is one of the most powerful platforms for social change in the Western hemisphere.

Zeitoun

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 10:22:14 -0800

]]> I remember back when Hurricane Katrina happened in 2005 in New Orleans. I heard about the lawlessness that took over New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina hit and I saw the images of destruction on TV, but in no way was I prepared for Dave Eggers’ new book Zeitoun.

Zeitoun: Dave Eggers' American-Muslim Hero

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 09:49:21 -0800

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One rarely imagines the quintessential image of an American hero having a Muslim, Arabic name. The Syrian American protagonist of Dave Eggers’ elegant and powerful new book entitled Zeitoun bravely endures the harrowing tragedy of an apocalyptic, post Katrina New Orleans while honorably exhibiting the best of America’s virtues and ideals.

In Love and Hip-Hop

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:42:25 -0800

]]> SheSoWriteous host Yahsmin premieres a new podcast featuring an interview with Colorado based hip-hop couple The ReMinders and a classic track off their album, ReCollect.

Yahoo Chooses to Remember a Smiling Malcolm X

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 16:14:39 -0800

]]> In the annual celebration of Black history, one prominent civil rights leader is often left out because he is deemed "too dangerous" to touch.

Latest Victim to Sororities' Purr: Muslim Women

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 08:46:10 -0800

]]> Meet the members of the first Muslim sorority in the United States.

Haiti Shakes Muslims to Give a Hand

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 10:25:14 -0800

]]> Haiti is experiencing unimaginable suffering from its devastating earthquake, with more than 150,000 dead and one to three million individuals displaced. Individuals, groups and governments from around the world have stepped in to do what they can.

What the Media Has Not Told Us

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 21:43:01 -0800

]]> The response of the world to the crisis in Haiti has been overwhelming. Even poor countries, such as Zambia and Sierra Leone, have sent cash assistance to help the people of Haiti.

Home of the Free and the Brave

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 13:21:53 -0800

]]> Crescent at "Arlington West" in Santa Monica.

Fox News Slams Google's Conclusions on Islam

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 12:12:38 -0800

]]> Hard hitting Fox News is going hard at what it does best.

King Of Pop's Conversion Finally Put To Rest

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 23:26:56 -0800

]]> A rumor that even forced a prominent Muslim-American cleric to retract his statement has finally been put to rest: Michael Jackson was not a Muslim at the time of his death.

Living the Ethic of Reciprocity

Sat, 23 Jan 2010 12:09:56 -0800

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The Charter of Compassion is a call to bring the world together. The charter is based on the premise of The Golden Rule and thereby claims that the “principle of compassion lies at the heart of all religious, ethical and spiritual traditions, calling us always to treat all others as we wish to be treated.”

Helping Haitians Helps Islam's Image

Sun, 17 Jan 2010 15:25:54 -0800

]]> It is refreshing to see the American Muslim community's rigor in stepping up to assist Haitian victims of catastrophic earthquake, which recently took place.

Muslims Online Encourage Debate, Not Hate

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 23:42:27 -0800

]]> Columnist Mona Eltahawy says a new generation of Muslims are using the Internet to challenge tyranny and reform Islam

The Allah Controversy in Malaysia

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:23:43 -0800

]]> I had to stop and read the headline a second time: Roman Catholics in Malaysia sued for the right to call God "Allah." Speaking to Time magazine, Reverend Lawrence Andrew said, "We have been using the word for decades in our Malay-language Bibles and without problems."

Muslim-Americans And The Haiti Earthquake

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:11:16 -0800

]]> The pictures, sounds, and reports coming out of Haiti are utterly devastating. The scale of the disaster is only beginning to be comprehended. My heart goes out to the people of Haiti, and I pray that the Lord bring them comfort, shelter, healing, and strength. May He give them the power to weather this latest of storms to hit that country.

So That You May Come To Know One Another

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 21:07:12 -0800

]]> United in love of God over tribe.

Children of Dust

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 08:43:54 -0800

]]> Children of Dust is about the evolution of the author from Abir, Amir, and then finally, into reformist blogger Ali Eteraz. In his first book, this former blogger takes the reader through his childhood from a village in Pakistan to his life in the United States.

A Conversation With Wajahat Ali

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 01:15:57 -0800

]]> The Islamic Cultural Center of Northern California announces the launch of Islam and Authors, a six-part series designed to introduce cutting-edge academic and literary works on Islam and Muslims to the greater Bay Area community.

Prayer At The Square

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 21:28:56 -0800

]]> Imam Zaid Shakir leads the congregational prayer at Union Square in San Francisco, during the afternoon of the fifth annual Generation M conference.

Public Trial, Private Nightmare

Sun, 10 Jan 2010 22:25:20 -0800

]]> On June 6th, 2006, Hashmi was arrested at London Heathrow airport when he was about to return to his family in the US. An American indictment charged him with material support of Al Qaida, and Hashmi was then held in Belmarsh, a Category A prison, located in London.

FBI's Newest Recruits: Arabic-Speaking Kids

Sun, 10 Jan 2010 22:06:05 -0800

]]> Fame Public Charter School in Fremont, Calif. hopes to become the nation's first Arabic-language immersion school. The school aims to make learning fun for students who may have felt they didn't fit in at other schools because of their language, religion, or dress. (Some students, for example, wear a head scarf.)

First Day Of School

Sun, 10 Jan 2010 18:20:57 -0800

]]> An Afghan girl learns the letters of the Dari alphabet on a blackboard in an outdoor classroom, during a lesson on the first day of the official school year in Kabul March 23, 2002.

Avatar is a Metaphor for Palestine

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 12:06:19 -0800

]]> Honestly, I want to have a strong opinion one way or another about James Cameron’s epic, Avatar. I really do. I love Star Wars, Starcraft, and any other movie, video game, or book that incorporates the future*, aliens, or spaceships in pretty much any combination of the three.

Dr. Jack Shaheen Discusses The Ft. Hood Tragedy

Sun, 27 Dec 2009 07:25:11 -0800

]]> Dr. Jack Shaheen, a national expert on the portrayal of Arabs and Muslim in the media, discusses the negative stereo types of Arab and Muslims in the mainstream news media in the aftermath of the Fort Hood shooting, where U.S. Major Nidal Hassan shot and killed 14 of his fellow comrades in arms.

Irene Khan

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 15:38:27 -0800

She is the first Asian, the first woman, and the first Muslim to become head of Amnesty International, one of the world's largest human rights organizations.

Illume Magazine Receives 'Excellence In Journalism' Award

Sat, 24 Oct 2009 02:43:31 -0700

]]> We launched Illume Magazine in October 2006 hoping to tell stories that mattered to the Muslim-American community and those who wanted to better understand the emerging, and still developing, segment of society.

Power Brokers: How Israel Negotiates With America

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 14:52:16 -0700

Born and raised in the US, as a young man Gershon Baskin moved to Israel where he has been working on peace betwen the Palestinians and Israelis for the past 30 years.

Illume Speaks With Muslim-American Playwright Wajahat Ali

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 10:02:22 -0700

]]> In writing a simple story, Wajahat Ali made history. His once college writing assignment has become the critically acclaimed play "Domestic Crusaders."

GTMO, Torture and the Cover-Up

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 11:18:05 -0700

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Notorious for allegations of torture and prisoner abuse, the controversial detention facility at Guantamo Bay, or GTMO, is home to alleged terrorists, the 'worst of the worst' as we are told.

First Pakistani Starship Captain

Mon, 25 May 2009 23:21:29 -0700

]]> I watched the latest “Star Trek” film in IMAX this past weekend and was pleasantly surprised to see Faran Tahir, a Pakistani-American who played the lead villian in “Iron Man” last year, as Captain Robau of the Starship U.S.S. Kelvin.

Thugs in The Masjid

Wed, 06 May 2009 22:24:37 -0700

]]> Hip-Hop was born out of the ashes of the Civil Rights and Black Power movements. The messages of Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali and other Muslim activists arose naturally into the lyrics of Hip-Hop from day one.

Mother of the Believers

Tue, 05 May 2009 04:35:08 -0700

]]> The premise of the new book Mother of the Believers by Kamran Pasha is a familiar one: the book is about one of the most beloved wives of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), Aisha.

My Interview on ABC Ch. 7 news

Sun, 12 Apr 2009 17:10:53 -0700

]]> I was recently interviewed by ABC Ch. 7 news about U.S. Aid to Pakistan, the flogging of a young women in the SWAT valley and Illume Magazine's coverage of Greg Mortenson's work of building schools in the mountain areas of Pakistan.

The Mini-Palestine In The Caucasus

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 12:20:05 -0700

]]> Two days ago was the first that I’d heard of a “mini-Palestinian situation” in the Caucasus as it relates to the challenges faced by the people of Azerbaijan

Congo: The Forgotten Tragedy

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 12:55:39 -0700

]]> Bordering Sudan, whose leader was recently indicted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged crimes against humanity relating to the crisis in Darfur, is a nation that perhaps has seen the greatest levels of violence and suffering in the past decade, yet has received the least amount of attention and concern from the international community.

The Happy Muslim Men And Women Who Confuse You

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 11:27:33 -0700

]]> As a journalist I am loathe to blame the media for all and any perceived ills. But in the case of Angry Bearded Muslim and Covered in Black Muslim Woman, the media really do have a lot to answer for.

Muslim westerners have built - and become - a bridge

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 10:24:46 -0700

]]> That fateful day in July of 2005 came scarcely a few days after I completed the initial draft of my book on Muslim Europeans. People from the community I had studied for years carried out that operation, which we now call “7/7”.

Film on American Muslim Plight Wins Grand Prize

Sun, 22 Mar 2009 07:32:44 -0700

]]> Last year, Link TV and One Nation joined together for the first time to announce the "One Nation, Many Voices" online film contest, a project which "aims to promote diversity, pluralism, and respect for religious freedom of all Americans by providing an online forum for real-life stories about American Muslims."

Where do Muslims stand on Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir and the ICC?

Sat, 21 Mar 2009 13:23:23 -0700

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Unfortunately, but not unexpectedly, the attention paid to genocide and global crisis ebbs and flows in a manner scarily similar to the fashion trends. However, I am not here to discuss the irreverently ephemeral manner by which folks anchor themselves to social movements.

I Pledge Allegiance

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:47:59 -0700

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One day my son came home from school and told me he had been sent to detention for not pledging the flag in his classroom. It’s only his second year in public school and yet, he braves these challenges day after day.

Al’ America: Travels Through America’s Arab and Islamic Roots

Sun, 15 Mar 2009 20:32:51 -0700

]]> In Al’ America: Travels Through America’s Arab and Islamic Roots, journalist Jonathan Curiel explores the influence Arab and Islamic culture has had on the United States of America.

Watchmen

Sat, 14 Mar 2009 20:12:35 -0700

]]> Whatever enthusiasm the opening night audience may have had for director Zack Snyder’s mammoth epic Watchmen when the film began, it was barely palpable as the credits rolled.

Crisis In Leadership

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 11:07:54 -0700

]]> The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Mr. Al-Bashir for the genocide in Darfur. Let me remind you that this conflict has caused the senseless deaths of over 300,000 people, and scores of women have been raped.

Journey To Timbuktu Part Two

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 20:54:22 -0700

]]> The check-in at the airport was uneventful. However, as soon as we boarded the plane there was a bit of a problem. Due to a mechanical problem of an unspecified nature, the plane’s departure was being delayed and we sat on the runway for over an hour.

Three Cups of Tea

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 23:12:47 -0700

]]> I recently finished reading "Three Cups of Tea" by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin. My first reaction after reading the story of Mortenson's 15 + year story of building schools for the impoverished children of Pakistan and eventually Afghanistan's mountain villages was - why do the Non-Muslims do God's work without making any excuses, but we Muslims just argue, cheat and fight amongst ourselves?!

Understanding The Arabs

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 21:20:57 -0700

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Speaking at the University of Delaware's Global Agenda series on the Middle East, Egyptian-born writer Mona Eltahawy described today's Arab world through the lens of electronic communication, which has become a vibrant political arena in a region where traditional politics generally stifles political discussion.

A Song For My Beloved

Sun, 08 Mar 2009 22:44:14 -0700

]]> In honor of my beloved's anniversary of his birth, I wrote this poem for him.

Journey To Timbuktu Part One

Sun, 08 Mar 2009 22:42:33 -0700

]]> For the last several yeas I have had the great honor and pleasure of assisting Islamic Relief on a variety of fundraising projects. Those efforts assisted Muslims challenged by various disasters and calamities I places ranging from Darfur to Muzzafabad, Pakistan, to Gaza.

Putting Things Right: Bringing Back The Humane In Humanity

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 12:52:56 -0800

]]> Seeing something like this is deeply disturbing for someone like me who just had our first child, Alhamdulillah. As educators, parents, grandparents, and those concerned about the general welfare of children around the world, I wonder sometimes what kind of world we are bringing our children into.

Catch the Cold of Equality!

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 12:35:01 -0800

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Mona shares her hopes on the positive impact that new U.S. President Barack Obama will have on religious understanding, as well as how women in the Middle East are employing new media platforms such as Facebook, YouTube and blogs in the movement for gender equality.

“Slumdog Millionaire” wins Best Picture and 6 other Oscars, including two for A.R. Rahman, for Best Original Song and Best Original Score

Sun, 22 Feb 2009 23:08:30 -0800

]]> I found out recently that A.R. Rahman, the Academy award winning composer of “Slumdog Millionaire” as well as many other Bollywood films, was inspired by Sufism and converted from Hinduism to Islam in 1989.

My Friday Sermon

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 08:28:36 -0800

]]> By now, everyone has heard of the truly outrageous and barbaric murder of Sister Aasiya Zubair, the estranged wife of the CEO of Bridges TV, who was found brutally dismembered in the offices of that TV station.

A wake-up call for the community

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 08:49:58 -0800

]]> The brutal dismembering of Aasiya Hassan, a Muslim Pakistani-American mother of four, will finally force a community to confront and remedy the overwhelming – but frequently ignored and intentionally hidden – demon of domestic violence that has persecuted its silenced women for far too long.

My personal experiences with BridgesTV

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 23:14:40 -0800

]]> I, along with some other Bay Area Muslims who met him, thought he was like any other "normal" Pakistani Muslim man, who had no real experience with the TV industry or media fields in general, but his idea seemed good, and he had a good "selling" point which was that his background was in finances and "Wall Street" (this was back in 2004 - when the stock market was still pretty good) and he knew that funding was the key to keep an American Muslim satellite channel alive.

The Bridges TV Crisis

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 17:53:50 -0800

]]> We can all agree what happened is despicable and there is no need to backbite on this matter. What’s more constructive is we pray for the family and pray that none of us ever even come close to being in a situation like this.

Egyptians Facing Censorship in Cyberspace

Sun, 15 Feb 2009 20:36:17 -0800

]]> Israel's disproportionate attacks on Gaza earlier this year resulted in a lot of uproar throughout the world. The horror that everyone felt at these events was compounded by the fact that Egypt closed it's borders to Gaza.

To Blair Or Not To Blair

Sat, 14 Feb 2009 22:39:19 -0800

]]> Early in 2008, Yale University announced that the former Prime Minister of the UK, Tony Blair, had just been hired to teach an exclusive, multi-disciplinary course for its students in the Fall of 2008.

Revisting History About The Differences Between Blacks And Africans In America

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 14:49:28 -0800

]]> Although this perception may be waning, there has always been an historical difference in how American society has viewed Blackamericans, the offspring of slaves, with naturalized citizens from Africa, the literal African-Americans.

Interview With Islamic Artist Izzy Mo – Part 2

Sun, 08 Feb 2009 12:33:15 -0800

]]> In the second of a two-part interview, Izzy Mo talks more about being an Islamic artist, including some advice for other aspiring artists.

Interview with Islamic Artist Izzy Mo - Part 1

Sun, 01 Feb 2009 13:47:11 -0800

]]> You probably know Izzy Mo from her blog and if you read her blog you know she is an artist, originally based out New Orleans but displaced during Katrina, which sent her family packing to Atlanta.

Respect Is Not Enough

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:06:54 -0800

]]> In his historic interview with the Al-Arabiya TV channel, President Obama’s inclusive and respectful rhetoric towards Muslims attempted an elegant coup de grace to the divisive, insecure and arrogant bravado of

Cash Rules Everything Around Me

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 21:03:25 -0800

]]>

In the midst of the Black and Brown neighborhoods across America, you find liquor stores posted on residential corners every few blocks or so. We call them convenience marts.

Muslim Events: Inclusive To Many, Exclusive To Some

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 10:38:19 -0800

]]> Recent community events have reinforced the fact that there are few socially congruent spaces for American Muslims. Viable areas to socialize outside of masajid that factor in the varying perspectives relating to gender interaction and music lends to an atmosphere where there are few, if any, universally accepted social outlets for American Muslims.

The Center Of Obama's Universe

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 10:39:51 -0800

]]> I live in Harlem, New York City, which on election night was the centre of the universe. I have never seen people so happy.

Throw Your Shoe for Change

Mon, 19 Jan 2009 17:44:47 -0800

]]> Today marks a massive change for the U.S. Sure, we get a new President, and sure, he is, in many ways, different than other politicians.

Helping Others Helps Ourselves

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 20:56:27 -0800

]]> Too often, we forget that one of the best ways to expose people to the true message of Islam is by helping them and speaking to their issues. For our socio-political advancement in America, I believe that the broad recapturing of this Islamic principle should be paramount in the American Muslim community.

Intelligent Discourse is Needed

Sun, 11 Jan 2009 16:03:29 -0800

]]> As I continue to be invited to more Gaza-related Facebook groups and events than you can imagine, I've started ignoring the invites. It's not that I care any less, nor even that my Obsessive Compulsive tendency to “clean” out clutter is running amok and causing me to worry about the ridiculous number of groups and causes I've joined.

Are We Failing the People of Gaza?

Sun, 11 Jan 2009 06:18:00 -0800

]]> This past weekend, hundreds (if not thousands) of Muslims made the trek to Washington DC as a way to speak out against the atrocities being committed in Gaza. But what does screaming and waving a glitter sign do for people thousands of miles away who feel the world has given up on them?

Israel Is The Opium Of The People

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 23:05:39 -0800

]]> The messages started to arrive soon after Israel's bombardment of Gaza killed close to 300 Palestinians. Implicit was the pressure to toe the party line, Hamas is good, Israel is bad.

The Bigger Oppressor Is Ourselves

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:08:34 -0800

]]> As Gaza is currently being bombed by the Israeli military, I’ve been reflecting on how the enemy from within can be greater than from without. My reflection is not based upon a physical enemy per se but the enemy within the individual and collective psyche of a people that lends itself towards self oppression.

Big Love gets Big Props

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 19:47:55 -0800

]]>

Barb, Nicki and Margene have only one thing in common-their husband. In a modern day polygynist household on HBO series Big Love, these women share one man and several children altogether.

Muslims Off a Plane: More Dangerous than Snakes

Sat, 03 Jan 2009 20:46:57 -0800

]]> The prescient journalist and satirist HL Mencken one wrote, “People would rather feel safe than be free.” After witnessing the unjustified removal of nearly 10 American Muslims from an AirTran flight due to “security” concerns, it seem some Americans would readily jettison their fellow citizens’ civil liberties in exchange for a temporary and false sense of safety and comfort.

19 Hour Journey

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 02:31:15 -0800

]]> Sarah Kamsoshy documents her 19-hour journey by bus from Cairo, Egypt to Palestine.

A New Year: Hopes, Prayers, and Dreams

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 16:03:58 -0800

]]> Happy New Year to all my readers! Although, I must admit that the "happy" and the exclamation mark in my greetings don't really belong, considering that almost 400 Gazans have been murdered and approximately 1,600 injured to date.

Political Privilege and Priorities

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 03:16:40 -0800

]]> I usually avoid posting on political topics because I admit I am not the most well-versed on many matters and I leave it to others who speak eloquently and then just link to them. When I do write something, it generally is an “unpopular” view that people don't want to hear so despite sometimes having ideas or an opinion on matters I just avoid it all together to save conflict.

Business As Usual

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 23:09:57 -0800

]]> Moral relativism, political double talk, and a military juggernaut blind to its violence against an occupied people highlight the most recent, tragic conflagration in Israel and Palestine. In justifying Israel’s most brutal and bloody salvo against Gaza in decades – which has so far killed nearly 400 Palestinians and wounded more than 1800 - Israel’s UN ambassador stated that Israel was "rightfully defending itself from continued Hamas rocket attacks within her borders."

Living Up To The Lessons Of Muharram During The Siege Of Gaza

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 08:38:06 -0800

]]> There are traditions connected with prophets related to Muharram such as it being the month in which Ibrahim (AS) was rescued from the fire to it being the month in which Allah (SWT) saved the Children of Israel and drowned the hosts of Pharaoh in the Red Sea.

Pop Your Bubble for Gaza

Sun, 28 Dec 2008 16:45:14 -0800

]]> I could probably venture a very safe bet that half, if not more, of the United States' population has no clue of what is happening right now in Gaza. Consumed by post-Christmas festivities and New Years' preparations, very few people take the time to read the newspaper or listen to the morning news.

Yes It's In There

Thu, 25 Dec 2008 23:43:42 -0800

]]> The young woman was always known to be pious, and she had taken for herself a place of prayer in an eastern section of the Temple.

For Jake’s Sake: An Introduction

Thu, 25 Dec 2008 12:54:57 -0800

]]> Introducing Black Board, White Chalk – for all the Jakes, Jacobs, and Yaqoubs; for the Mary Anns, Marys and Maryams who graduated from high school and still cannot read. It is for those who struggled and continue to struggle through school because we failed to recognize what they as individual people needed and failed to acknowledge what they could contribute.

Busta, "A-rab Money", & Muslim Outreach

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 11:18:25 -0800

]]> It's time that Muslim activists come together with a plan to do some serious outreach to Muslim rappers, who are part of the mainstream music industry but detached from the mainstream Muslim community.

If You Come To Us in Need

Sun, 21 Dec 2008 14:32:11 -0800

]]> If you come to us and are hungry, we will feed you, if thirsty, we will give you drink, if naked, we will clothe you; if sick, we will minister to your necessities, if in prison, we will visit you; if you need a hiding place from the face of pursuers, we will provide one that even bloodhounds will not scent out. -- American Antislavery Society

Christ In The Qur'an

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 01:27:39 -0800

]]> What is Islam? Is Islam an ancient Arab warrior cult based on the worship of a pagan warrior god, whose headquarters lie in the rocks and stones of the Ka'ba in Mecca?

Boy in Striped Pajamas

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 00:15:22 -0800

]]> I cried watching “Boy in Striped Pajamas,” a film directed by Mark Herman and written by John Boyne. But the uncomfortable truth is that most Muslims around the world, like myself, will witness something entirely different than most watching on the western side of the hemisphere.

Indian Muslims: Defining their Loyalty

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 00:03:22 -0800

]]> Although the smoldering fires from the Mumbai attacks illuminate hateful violence, the spread of Islam in India came at the benevolent, inclusive hands of Sufi Muslims instead of the oppressive scimitar of the Mughal rulers.

The third gender, the in-betweens

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 23:04:52 -0800

]]> My friend and I were sitting at the famous "Benazir Kulfi" shop in Lahore, Pakistan. It was around 11 p.m. but the street was exhilaratingly alive.

Shoe-Throwing? America's Future in the Middle East

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 22:35:03 -0800

]]> As my winter break between classes began, I got the most peculiar email titled, "Bush Dodges Iraqi Journalist's Shoes." Before opening the email, I immediately thought that this would be a Comedy Central or Saturday Night Live spoof.

Defining a Woman

Sun, 14 Dec 2008 14:35:21 -0800

]]> Today, while watching TV, my twelve year-old son said, “Have you ever noticed that they don’t tell you what Mrs. Claus’ name is or how she met Santa?”

Standing alone among millions

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 09:04:37 -0800

]]> The anticipation was nearly overwhelming. The trip had been exhausting, the waits in various airport terminals long, the chaos of the throngs of pilgrims diffuse.

Eid Greetings & Blessings

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 01:00:10 -0800

]]> Today is Eid ul-Adha. Eid Mubarak everyone! If you are reading this on the first day it is posted, my question to you is: Couldn't you take one day away from the computer to celebrate with your community?

Bridging The Divide Among American Muslims

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 09:55:13 -0800

]]> In conjunction with the Hajj season, it is fitting to re-examine the current state of unity or lack thereof within the American Muslim community.

Perspective on Gratitude

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 12:49:41 -0800

]]> I am going to take a different path this week and share a simple poem instead of an essay.

Go Forth Romantic Warrior

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 19:14:06 -0800

]]> Go forth romantic warrior,
to slay the beast of self.
Go forth into the field of life,
and relish in the wealth.

Day Of Thanks, Day Of Horror

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 19:04:52 -0800

]]> Today, Americans all across the country are getting together with family and friends and celebrating the feast of Thanksgiving, eating turkey and other foods and desserts, as is the custom in the United States.

Jacko's Alleged Reversion And Sanctimonious Muslims

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 12:03:11 -0800

]]> Michael Jackson's lawyer has just clarified that the King of Pop isn't a Muslim, which is good to know, yet some responses from sanctimonious Muslims regarding his alleged reversion still trouble me.

Giving Thanks

Sun, 23 Nov 2008 17:04:04 -0800

]]> This is the beginning of one of the most difficult times of the year for Western Muslims: the dreaded “holiday season”. This upcoming week is the minor extravaganza known as Thanksgiving, which is really just the set-up for the next month of building momentum towards Christmas and New Year's.

Pebbles and Boulders

Sun, 23 Nov 2008 12:02:50 -0800

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It was a Friday night at the premiere screening of Slingshot Hip Hop, a documentary about the underground music scene in Occupied Palestine. I strolled into a thick crowd of Arab Film Festival enthusiasts ready to watch the film we’d been hearing about for at least three years.

The 'Stark'

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 13:46:14 -0800

]]> I stepped into the lobby, grateful for the relief from the sweltering heat. There, we found ourselves staring at an unsmiling guard hidden behind large black sunglasses.

Searchin' For WMDs

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 09:25:09 -0800

Guest Editorial: Zaid Shakir

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 03:48:31 -0800

]]> Recently, 28 million copies of the anti-Islamic propaganda documentary, Obsession, were distributed free of charge in what are being considered the “swing” states in the current election campaign.

Desperately Seeking Paradise

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 02:09:13 -0800

]]> A first glance at part of the book title Journeys of a Skeptical Muslim might give the impression that Sardar is someone who doubts the soundness or possibly the validity of the Islamic tradition—this is not the case.

Evolution Theory And Islam

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 02:08:02 -0800

]]> This important booklet contains the answer of Nuh Ha Mim Keller to a question about the Islamic response to the theory of evolution. It contains philosophical considerations as to the nature of theory and belief (and their inter-relation) and includes the Islamic perspective on natural selection.

W.

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 02:05:07 -0800

]]> “Oliver Stone’s fascinating and entertaining portrait of W. depicts George W. Bush as the prodigal son whose desire for paternal validation breeds a paralyzing insecurity that simultaneously drives and suffocates his ambitions.

The Most Merciful

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 02:01:05 -0800

]]> It is only natural that, as we embark on the journey of reflection on the names and attributes of God, that we first reflect on the most ubiquitous of God’s names in the Qur’an and Islamic tradition: Ar-Rahman, Ar-Raheem.

From Ramallah to Rikers Island

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 01:40:20 -0800

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On 25 May 1998, I arrived to my home in Ramallah to find a mob of armed Palestinians inside my house, including members of the Palestinian security forces. All my belongings were scattered in the yard outside, and a bulldozer had leveled part of my bedroom walls and roof.

Twin Bombings

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 01:35:22 -0800

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Both Javed Ali and Amir Baluch died instantly in the bomb blasts that went off during Benazir Bhutto’s homecoming procession on Oct. 18 after her 8-year self-imposed exile.

Fatima Bhutto: The New Daughter Of Destiny

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 01:29:21 -0800

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Wearing Bhutto as a last name in Pakistan is analogous to carrying a flamboyant, rare, elitist Prada bag: an accessory that assures you will never be common nor anonymous.

Should Muslims Use The 'N' Word?

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 01:11:15 -0800

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I was recently involved in a forum entitled, Should Muslims Use The ‘N’ Word. The event could have more appropriately been entitled, Should Anyone Use The ‘N’ Word?

Using Hip-Hop To Defeat The Devil

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 01:03:35 -0800

]]>

I grew up in Oakland between two areas. My mother’s on 11th Avenue, which was known as Funktown, and 43rd Sstreet in North Oakland with my younger cousins and uncles. I was raised on Reaganomics and the crack epidemic.

The Crescent And The Mic

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:55:13 -0800

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I sat there in my pajamas, hypnotized by the woofer pulsing as the crowd cried to the heavens with Malcolm. It was a happy, yet seemingly insignificant moment in my life, that is, until 1988. That was the year I bought Public Enemy’s It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back on the first day it came out.

An Apology

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:50:57 -0800

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On Sept. 11, 2008, while countless American flags whipped in the wind and the television and radio waves were dominated by remembrances, recordings, and stories about the terror attacks of seven years ago, I attended the funeral of Warith Deen Muhammad.

Wanted for Opposing the Junta

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 09:58:45 -0800

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A friend who engages in cross-border aid activities in the genocide afflicted war-zone of Burma sent me this, which, in Burmese, is the equivalent of an old wild-west wanted posted, with my photo on it.

Blacks & Cali's Gay Marriage Ban

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 09:30:36 -0800

]]> I must admit that I'm a little taken aback at the blame game that much of the White gay community is placing on Blackamericans for the recent passing of Prop 8, which banned same sex marriages in California.

The Muslim Next Door: The Qur'an, the Media, and that Veil Thing

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 11:24:09 -0800

]]> What if you could sit down at a kitchen table with an American Muslim mom and ask her anything you wanted about her faith and religious practice?

My Naughty Loves

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 12:57:00 -0800

]]> I love Vogue magazine, What Not to Wear and America’s Next Top Model. I also love India Arie, Lila Downs and Shakira, and Bob Marley is my all time favorite music.

Life In Afghanistan

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 03:05:49 -0800

]]> Naeem Randhawa takes you behind the scenes of ILLUME, on a powerful photo journey that introduces you to the sites and sounds of Afghanistan.

Digital Decorating

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 02:03:30 -0800

]]> Digital transfer offers endless possibilities for creating custom décor elements. I recently came across a company that expanded my ideas regarding the medium. The company, Orangepiel of Sausalito, California offers creative technology that has intriguing possibilities on a grand scale.

Slumdog Millionaire

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 02:29:33 -0800

]]> The best move of the year (so far) wears its Dickensian spirit and soaring optimism shamelessly and proudly on its tattered, slumdog sleeves.

The Political Legacy of Imam WD Mohammed

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 09:08:21 -0800

]]> In the wake of the historic election of President-elect Barack Obama and the MANA conference quickly approaching, I have been reflecting on the importance of the legacy of Imam Warith Deen (WD) Mohammad (May Allah Have Mercy Upon Him) in regards to the current level of Muslim civic engagement in America.

Where Do We Go From Here?

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 08:36:33 -0800

]]> For the last week I’ve sat before a blank page, preparing to write this week’s post and searching for profound words on the election. Others have written quite eloquently about the stunned joy of witnessing the first Black President-elect, and the hope for real change in this country.

On Faith And Understanding

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:33:27 -0800

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The Great Way is not difficult
for those not attached to preferences.
When neither love nor hate arises,
all is clear and undisguised.
Separate by the smallest amount, however,
and you are as far from it as heaven is from earth.

Traitor

Sat, 08 Nov 2008 04:54:08 -0800

]]> Like its protagonist, the movie Traitor exists with conflicting loyalties and a fleeting sense of fidelity to its honorable, yet ultimately porous, intentions. The Don Cheadle-headed action/thriller, co-written by comedian/playwright Steve Martin and director Jeffrey Nachmanoff, inelegantly attempts to combine cardboard, blockbuster plot mechanics with the important, philosophical musings of a complicated post 9-11 world.

Sex In The City

Sat, 08 Nov 2008 04:41:08 -0800

]]> Driving to the “Sex and the City: The Movie” premiere, I felt like Morgan Spurlock, the director of “Super Size Me” who foolishly consumed fast food for 30 days; a man voluntarily condemning himself to masochistic pain for sake of a cultural experiment.

Indiana Jones And The Kingdom Of The Crystal Skull

Sat, 08 Nov 2008 04:08:25 -0800

]]> “How much of human life is lost in wait,” muses a character towards the end of the highly anticipated, twenty years in the making Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull.

Presenting President-Elect Barack Obama

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 21:10:15 -0800

]]> Of course, anyone and everyone will be blogging, writing, speaking, and thinking about the victory of President-Elect Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States of America. I'd like to begin by congratulating you all.

Yes We Can

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 15:46:49 -0800

]]> The American people have spoken in a resounding voice, “YES WE CAN!” and with that refrain echoing into the night history was made as Senator Barack Hussein Obama was elected to serve as the next president of the United States.

The Race Issue Did Not End With The Election Of Obama

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 08:10:08 -0800

]]> I must say that I personally have mixed feelings regarding the triumph of President-elect Barack Hussein Obama in our recent National election

When Unity Goes Awry

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 03:10:05 -0800

]]> The last year or so has seen an upswing in discussions about the unity of our Ummah, and calls for Muslims to unite. In fact, I thought this was a rather old discussion that we were finally moving away from, but it has recently been revived in the blogosphere.

Why Is World Media Interested In This US Election Cycle?

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 09:26:09 -0700

]]> The amount of media attention regarding this year's US Presidential election probably exceeds that of the two previous elections combined for two primary reasons being the horrendous condition of the global economical environment and the historic bid of Sen. Barack Obama.

Appearing on the OReilly Factor and being a Bumble Bee

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:15:55 -0700

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Appearing on the OReilly Factor and being a Bumble Bee

Boom Box, Ballot Box

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 23:30:00 -0700

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In my short 30 years of living, the inclination to vote has entered my mind a few times and was usually impelled by a discussion about how Civil Rights elders fearlessly sought the privilege. Seeking this right was bloody and painful, dangerous and courageous all the same.

Adisa Banjoko At Dickinson College On Non-violence

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 21:49:14 -0700

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Adisa Banjoko At Dickinson College On Non-violence

Why Islamic Media Matters

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 07:27:48 -0700

]]> I’ve been Muslim for just over ten years, mashaAllah. I’ve been a writer all my life; truly I cannot remember just when my penchant for putting my thoughts and dreams into written word began. When I came to Islam the “Islamic media” was seemingly limited to poorly written brochures that were copied off of copies that were copied off of copies and shoddy translations from Delhi of Islamic texts.

The 2003 Colin Powell: A Politically Incorrect [But Honest!] Satire About Bush's First Administration

Sun, 26 Oct 2008 18:06:42 -0700

]]> [In honor of the end of the Bush Administration, I share with you this piece from 2004 written after the invasion of Iraq. Starring Hall of Famers Bush II, Colin Powell and Ashcroft.]

Non-Option Of Sitting It Out On Election Day

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 05:15:10 -0700

]]> No matter where Muslims reside, they are mandated by the Qur’an and the example of Prophet Muhammad (SAAS) to cultivate civil society. Moreover, Muslims have the duty to be civically engaged in striving towards this Divine mandate.

Muslims For America

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 00:08:12 -0700

]]> After being treated as political kryptonite and depicted as enraged Orcs for the past seven years, Muslims and Arabs – the media's modern day Morlocks – temporarily emerged as human beings thanks to Colin Powell's Obama endorsement on Sunday.

Farrakhan's 'New Beginning'?

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 17:36:11 -0700

]]> I skeptically watched via live streaming Min. Farrakhan's re-dedication of Mosque Maryam in Chicago this past Sunday regarding the new direction of his branch of the Nation of Islam (NOI).

Talking Elections With The President

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 01:29:59 -0700

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Former President Jimmy Carter lives an illustrious life that can be traced from his beginnings in Plains, Ga. A career in politics surfaced after he spent time in the Navy and tended to the family farm.

48 Laws of Obama: An Interview with Strategy Expert Robert Greene

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 04:00:50 -0700

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On May 20, 2008, Barack Obama won the state of Oregon. No matter what opinion people made about Obama "not being ready to lead" a bi-racial man with a Muslim father and a Christan mother had taken one more step toward entering the Oval Office.

The Oppressed

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 11:52:55 -0700

]]> School started, and with all the new classes, work, and responsibilities, it took quite a while to balance everything and get back to my normal schedule. I was studying for my AlMaghrib test on the Seerah of the Prophet (S) and I came across a very interesting story, a story that reminded me of many things that are happening today.

Divisive Ethno-Religious Positions Hurt America During Election Season

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 10:19:09 -0700

]]> A recent invocation at a McCain rally in Davenport, Iowa given by Arnold Conrad is a prime example of the divisive tone of this year’s presidential election that is dividing America.

Vote for Me and I Will Set You Free

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 09:41:59 -0700

]]> I have decided that instead of complaining about the inadequacies of the candidates running for president I would run as a write-in candidate. Here is my platform, as articulated in my stump speech:

Muay Thai Chakrit: A Brooklyn Monk Training in Bangkok

Sun, 05 Oct 2008 04:15:43 -0700

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Coach Adjan Chakrit moves in circles, holding up the focus mitts, he calls out the commands. “One, one two.” I throw a straight left, right combination. “Four!” That means, left, right, hook, straight.

"Allah Made Me Funny Is"...Really Funny

Sun, 05 Oct 2008 04:06:59 -0700

]]> Muslims have been known for a lot of things (many of them, unfortunately, are not very positive) in the minds of many people in America. Yet, one thing that they are not known for is being funny.

Darfur: More Complex Than Simply Genocide

Sun, 05 Oct 2008 03:19:54 -0700

]]> With the currently dismal humanitarian situation in the Darfur region of Sudan and rebel groups recently launching attacks of the Sudanese capital of Khartoum, the 5 plus years conflict in Sudan continues to be the subject of bewilderment, frustration and misinformation.

Tea With The Taliban

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 11:32:39 -0700

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The Kam Air flight left Dubai and is touching ground in Kabul in less than three hours. The Boeing 737 dips under the mountain range and the pilot circles the plane to position for landing at Afghanistan’s Kabul Airport.

Ramadan in Kabul

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 11:55:37 -0700

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As we get into the second third of Ramadan, much change can be noticed in Kabul. Things have slowed down quite a bit; everyone is getting out of work around noon time, preparing to get ready for iftar and taraweeh after dinner.

A Colossal Loss

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 08:20:17 -0700

]]> The news came as an enormous shock. I felt an immediate sadness, a feeling of tremendous loss. I was walking out of the hospital when I learned that Imam W.D. Muhammad had passed away; I will always remember where I was when that happened.

Star Wars: An Islamic Perspective

Sat, 30 Aug 2008 05:57:10 -0700

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As most “Star Wars” fans know, director George Lucas took spiritual elements, which are common in most major world religions to create his epic saga of good vs. evil. As a Muslim, I always thought of the “Jedi” as what a true follower of Islam should be like.

American Muslim Catch 22

Sat, 30 Aug 2008 05:21:25 -0700

]]> A woman wrote to me recently to ask “how can a non-Muslim EVER trust the word of a Muslim.” She said she “knew it is ok for all Muslims to lie to infidels” and, just for good measure, informed me that being a Muslim was incompatible with being an American because “the ultimate goal of Muslims (or you are not a true Muslim) is to have Sharia in the U.S.”

McCain Unleashes a Cougar for the PUMAs

Sat, 30 Aug 2008 05:06:54 -0700

]]> Sarah Palin, a good looking, former beauty queen, hockey mom who reads “Guns N’ Ammo,” was announced as John McCain’s Vice Presidential running mate yesterday. “Tina Fey with an AK-47” exploded on the international political scene shocking everyone – except those of us who predicted it last week – as the second ever-female VP candidate since Geraldine Ferraro.

How Does it Feel to be a Problem: Being Young and Arab in America

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 20:55:02 -0700

]]> According to the introduction (necessary reading in the case of this book), Bayoumi sought out what it was like to be a young, Arab-American and therefore a 'problem' in the United States.

Ya Rasulullah

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 14:35:54 -0700

]]> This past weekend, I took my first AlMaghrib class on the life of the Prophet Muhammad (S), a class titled, "The Shepherd's Path."

Obama Bin Biden?

Sat, 23 Aug 2008 04:00:51 -0700

]]> Barack Obama, that Presidential coquette who teased the world by not announcing his running mate for nearly two months, finally unveiled his vanilla, Vice Presidential bride, thus ultimately opting for a marriage of blandness, predictability and conciliation.

Terrorist movies? Hooray!

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 18:10:13 -0700

]]> There's a movie coming out with Muslims in it! Quick, someone fire up the CAIR e-mail alert! Time to join the boycott group on Facebook with 8 people in it!

Hanging out at Muslim Unity Day

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:15:11 -0700

]]> I spent this past Saturday, August 9 at the 4th Annual Muslim Unity Day at Six Flags, Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo, CA. I was there in the capacity of Illume, sitting at the booth and alternating between talking to people about the magazine and people watching, both very interesting activities.

Tropic Thunder

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 03:57:48 -0700

]]> Now, if you were to see a very well made, faux trailer promoting a cartoonish, hyper-sexualized rapper’s version of “Red Bull” known as “Booty Sweat” and you laugh, then this movie is for you.

Hijab: Empowering, Never Restricting

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 20:14:52 -0700

]]> I was reading the news on my laptop one morning and I came across an article about the hijabis, women who wear the hijab [Muslim women's dress of modesty], who are participating in the Olympics.

Refreshing Activism

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 20:21:39 -0700

]]> Activism is so refreshing; it really is. And it makes me extremely happy to be surrounded by activists everywhere. If you're sitting there thinking.."I'm not an activist, why should I even continue reading this?"

Giving People a Chance

Sat, 19 Jul 2008 10:22:38 -0700

]]> I was at the Coldplay concert last night in San Jose when the inevitable happened, it was Maghrib time. My sister and I wandered around the HP Pavilion for a while trying to find a nice, quiet place to do Maghrib.

The Dark Knight Ascends

Sat, 19 Jul 2008 06:02:23 -0700

]]> The Dark Knight boldly deconstructs and resurrects the superhero movie, confidently allowing the comic book genre to soar beyond superficial assumptions and transcend new heights as a legitimate, epic, philosophical narrative.

Afghanistan (part II)

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 23:44:35 -0700

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Besides visiting family and friends in Kabul, there is a lot of work to be done at the center where I’m interning. The Center for Conflict and Peace Studies (CAPS) focuses mainly on security issues in Afghanistan and our work is best defined as think-tank-like.

Profiling Muslims and Arabs May Become Legal

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 12:06:59 -0700

]]> Salon.com published an article today, The FBI's Plan to "Profile" Muslims and Arabs, about impending new rules from the Department of Justice that will allow the FBI to profile solely based on one's religion and/or race, i.e. will let them legally go after someone just because they are Muslim or Arab.

Can I be in a Bollywood movie?

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:54:14 -0700

]]> Sylvester Stallone is starring in a Bollywood movie. If you need proof that the Day of Judgment is coming, look no further.

Returning To Afghanistan After 15 Years

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 22:30:23 -0700

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After 15 years I was finally able to come back to Kabul, Afghanistan on June 20. I only vividly remember our house in the Dedana district; our garden was so beautiful, full of luscious apple trees, a variety of vegetables including onions, tomatoes, and potatoes.

Beware The Apathy

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 00:23:59 -0700

]]> I write to you from my beloved Egypt and I'm quite happy to say that all the comments and thoughts from my last blog stand true. Never have I seen more generous and selfless people.

What Is Right About America

Sat, 05 Jul 2008 03:14:05 -0700

]]> A few weeks back, my neighbor sent me this excerpt from a Romaninan newspaper, Evenimentulzilei, that was published several years ago. The article, called "Ode to America," was written by Mr. Cornel Nistorescu.

Harvard University Video Lecture

Sat, 05 Jul 2008 02:25:41 -0700

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Adisa Banjoko, Co-founder of Hip Hop Chess Federation, Lectures @ Harvard on Islam and Hip-Hop.

After A Week In India

Sat, 05 Jul 2008 02:12:49 -0700

]]> I've been in India a little over a week today, starting by walking the India-Pakistan border. Expectedly, I began seeing small cultural differences on the way to the train station in Amritsar; women on scooters, something you would never see in Pakistan, lots of turbans (the majority is Sikh) and a little less conservative attitude.