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Health & Fitness

Muslim Women Unveiled on Manchester Review

The myths and stereotypes of Muslim women in the US are discussed.

Many Americans fail to see the distinction between extreme Islam and the reality of Islam in the U.S. A recent Rasmussen Poll reported that 69 percent of American voters believe Islam and the West are in conflict. Since 9/11 the media has been full of stories about radical Islam, Sharia Law and  examples of oppression of Muslim women. Some believe that women in head scarves may be terrorists, that Islam is out to convert the West and subject it to Sharia Law. The traditional view of the Quran is that of a patriarchal text that supports sexual inequality and the oppression of women, whereas modern Muslim feminists view it as a text that provides equality and permits and encourages the liberation of women. Stereotypes about Muslims abound.

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 . Hossain, a convert to Islam, teaches English as a Second Language. Antar, born a Muslim in Egypt, is an Economics Professor. In their interview with me they talk about their personal experiences as Muslim women in America – from raising children, working professionally, worshipping and community involvement. 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 practice of Islam in the U.S., 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 p.m., Mondays in June.

Additional, in depth information about muslim women in the U.S. can be found in the book: Muslim Women in America: The Challenge of Islamic Identity Today by Haddad, Smith and Moore and on the website of the Muslim Women’s League.

Comments and questions are welcome at manchesterreview@gmail.com.

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