|
The American Muslim is faced with two cultures – one offering freedom, and the other laden with religious restrictions. Despite this, they seem to be happier and better off than their counterparts around the world.
The recent spate of terror attacks across the world, has put Islam in a bad light. Islamic fundamentalists have been blamed for a large number of suicide bombings, hijacks and other terrorist plots that have occurred in the past decade. This has increased prejudice towards Muslims all over the world, and the American Muslim is no exception.
While there is increasing mistrust directed towards Muslims in America, there is also an increase in the number of mosques being constructed here, with the total number of mosques being more than 1800 as of now. The conversion rate of prison convicts is also growing, making Islam one of the fastest growing religions in America.
The American Muslim is exposed to two worlds. The materialism and consumerism of the West, and the restrictive world of Islam. The young Muslim is torn between the allure of the temptations the free world has to offer, and the bodings of his own culture. Muslim leaders are unsure whether to tackle these issues using the old, traditional approach, or whether to use the advice of more modern leaders. In any case, it is agreed upon that Muslims in America are better off in terms of education and technological prowess, than their counterparts in other countries.
However, the negative side is that Muslims in America are facing increasing economic backwardness due to a variety of social factors. This makes them less able to support the needs of Muslims in other countries.
Social institutions like schools, and other businesses like legal practices, are increasingly being taken over by Muslims. This is good news for a world gone awry in its hatred for other cultures. At least, in the little way they can, Muslims in America are making a positive difference in the lives of Americans. This can help to ward of the deepening mistrust felt by Americans towards Muslims.
Meanwhile, there is also awareness thanks to human rights groups, and the basic humanity of a larger percentage of the population, that not all Muslims can be labeled terrorists. Muslim dietary restrictions are increasingly being incorporated in diners across the United States. Islamic education is more and more being sought after in schools, forcing them to increase the number of hours devoted towards Islamic teachings. This, combined with the growing number of followers Islam attracts in the United States, makes for good news for Muslims all over the world, not just in America.
The American Muslim is faced with opportunities of a good education, freedom of thought and expression, and the values passed on to him from his own culture. It is up to him to use these opportunities wisely and not exploit them, so as to grow as a complete human being, and global citizen.
|
