January 12, 2012

In a conversation at MPAC's 11th Annual Convention with Wajahat Ali , one of the co-authors of the Center for American Progress' 2011 report "Fear, Inc.: The Roots of the Islamophobia Network in America, Dr. Maher Hathout examines what we are doing as a nation to our own? They explore the small but powerful network fueling hate and its dangerous impact on politics, media and public opinion at home and abroad. As their hateful messages become more and more mainstream, how can we deal with public fear and misconceptions in a way that reinforces our identity and place in the American fabric?

Ali is a playwright, journalist, attorney, humorist, blogger and expert on the $40 million Islamophobia industry in the U.S. Ali reported that due in part to the relentless efforts of a small group of individuals and organizations, Islam is now the most negatively viewed religion in America. Only 37 percent of Americans have a favorable opinion of Islam: the lowest favorability rating since 2001, according to a 2010 ABC News.

LISTEN: Exposing Hate, Resisting Victimization: Islamophobia & The Path Forward (StraightTalk Podcast)

"Straight Talk" is a 25-minute podcast which centers around candid conversations with Dr. Hathout about relevant, inclusive, practical Islamic thought. A internationally-recognized Muslim American leader, poet, cardiologist and self-described "student of the Quran," Dr. Hathout explores contemporary topics facing Muslim Americans alongside a diverse array of guests. If you have questions, the podcasts may have the answers or another way of looking at the subject.

Released every two weeks on www.straighttalkpodcast.com, the podcasts provide an avenue for listeners to hear what others refuse to address. The interactive discussion online also lets participants submit and suggest topics, as well as discuss frustrations, inspirations and comments with peers. Each podcast is linked to Quranic verses to spark healthy discussions.

" Straight Talk" is available to stream and download now. Take part in the conversation on Facebook,  Twitterand the website.

Stay tuned and get connected to a greater community.

-- Marium F. Mohiuddin
marium@mpac.org
Communication Coordinator