A new survey of America Muslims shows the community becoming more religiously and socially liberal. And, even as American Muslims worry about increased bigotry, the majority remain hopeful about their future in the United States.
New Book and Toy Aim to Teach Kids about Islam
In the spirit of “Elf on the Shelf” and “Mensch on the Bench” comes a new toy and book to teach children about Islam: “Imam Adam.” According to its creator, Danny Shakoj, “Imam Adam” is meant to serve a dual purpose: Supporting the faith of Muslim families and also educating non-Muslims about the basic tenets of Islam. As Shakoj says, “I’d like people to get a different perspective [on Islam.]… Usually, with younger kids, parents will read to them, so this way both the parents and the kids get the information.”
Teaching – not Preaching – Religion in Public Schools
Increasingly, educators are realizing that, in our connected and diverse societies, it is important to teach students religious literacy—knowledge of, and ability to understand, different religions. But, teaching about religion in public school can often prove tricky, and teachers must find ways to teach their students about religion without accidentally promoting a religion or religions. In Chicago, public school educators are taking part in workshops on teaching religious literacy, which stress an analytic approach that allows students to gain an awareness of world religions without forcing acceptance or practice of any particular faith. As one teacher in the program says, “We cannot endorse, so the way we always say it is: we teach, we don’t preach. We educate, we don’t endorse.”
Importance of Faith Communities during Times of Crisis
A new report from the Woolf Institute, titled “Trust in Crisis,” finds that local communities—especially faith communities and other minority groups—are extremely important in times of crisis. As the report states: “…it is local communities and locally-based volunteer organisations which confront direct and immediate needs in times of crisis. They are more in tune with realities on the ground and are able to plug the gaps left by austerity.” Read the full report at the link below.
This Muslim Community is Creating a Model for Rebuilding Detroit
A Muslim-led nonprofit, Dream of Detroit, is uniting Muslims across race and background to rebuild one of Detroit’s long-neglected neighborhoods by buying land and developing homes to revitalize the area. Learn more at the link below!
