Originally published on Philly.com Hostile climate The recent act of throwing a severed pig’s head at the Al Aqsa Islamic Society mosque in North Philadelphia was clearly an act of Islamophobia, signifying grave disrespect toward Muslims. But it is much more than that. The act also reflects a growing climate in this country of intolerance aimed at practitioners of Islam. It represents an...
Extremists Endanger Muslims, Too
Originally published in the Santa Barbara Independent According to them, it is an act of Islamic virtue to fire a pistol or gun at an innocent person. Where are those who will act like the Companions of the Holy Prophet and remain patient while suffering torture? Has God commanded us to capture complete strangers and cut them to pieces or to shoot them without reason or proof of an offence? Can a...
Raja:On being Muslim
Originally published in the Loudoun Times I am writing this piece in light of the recent shooting in San Bernardino. As an American Muslim, I am providing my perspective on ISIS and the kind of leadership Muslims need in these troubled times. Muslim leaders need to advocate the true Islamic teachings of peace and tolerance. The horrific incident at San Bernardino last week sent a shock wave...
Racism and hate in society: are they due to ignorance or what?
The late Lucky Dube, a famous reggae musician from South Africa once said, “when I see a black man, I see the image of God. When a see a white man, I see the image of God. And that’s the way it should be. We belong together.” Unfortunately however, this is not the reality in many situations such as with the cold-blooded killing of black Christian worshippers in Charleston South...