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Manchester Review in June:Muslim Women in the US: Myth vs Reality

Manchester Review in June:Muslim Women in the US: Myth vs Reality

Since 9/11 the media has been full of stories about radical Islam, Sharia Law and  examples of oppression of Muslim women.  A Rasmussen Poll reports that 69% of American voters believe Islam and the West are in conflict. Non Muslim western feminists see Islam as an oppressor of women while Muslim women in the US see it as ensuring equity between men and women.  Stereotypes about Muslims abound. Even with all of the stereotyping, more than 20,000 Americans convert to Islam annually. Women converts outnumber men 4 to 1.

The myths and stereotypes about Muslim women and Islam are explored in June on Manchester Review with guests Diana Hossain and Fatma Antar, both professors at Manchester Community College. Hossain, a convert to Islam, teaches English as a Second Language. Antar, born a Muslim in Egypt, is an Economics Professor. In an interview with show host, Jack Peak, they talk about their personal experiences as Muslim women in America- from raising children, working professionally and involvement in the community. They explore the myths and  explain the reality of Muslim womenhood. There are challenges including bullying of Muslim children in school to discrimination in the workplace. Although neither woman wears the hijab (veil or head covering) they explain its symbolism in the religion and how in some instances wearing it has led to harassment and rude comments in the community for some Muslim women.

This is the second episode of Manchester Review dealing with Islam in the United States and the Manchester area. The goal is to familiarize viewers with the real Islam, destroy some of the myths and stereotypes and promote religious tolerance.

Muslim Women:Myth vs Reality can be seen on Manchester Review, Cox PATV channel at 9 PM, Mondays in June.
Comments and questions are welcome at manchesterreview@gmail.com.

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