July 27, 2011

The relationship and dialogue between Muslims and Jews in America has been heated and divisive for the past few decades to say the least. In an attempt to reverse this trend, the simply titled, “Muslims and Jews in America,” publishes the voices from both sides of the issue, presenting perspectives on the issues from prominent scholars, journalists and religious leaders from both Muslim and Jewish faiths.

Edited by Reza Aslan and Aaron J. Hahn Tapper, the book presents commentaries from Jews and Muslims on their perspectives of the relationship between the two faiths, as well as the impact of Israeli-Palestinian issues on America. Notable writers include Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN), Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf and Eboo Patel.

MPAC President Salam Al-Marayati was also one of the keynote contributors to the book. His chapter, “Challenges and Opportunities for Muslim-Jewish Peacemaking in America,” describes his personal ventures in the dialogue between Jews and Muslims, specifically the challenges he faces from both sides, the friendships he’s made on the way and his take on the future of the relationship. Al-Marayati recounts his unfortunate removal of his nomination to the National Commission on Terrorism, and the backlash he met from radical Jews and the relief he met from the lesser known moderates who wanted peace just like him.

Muslims and Jews in America” is a necessity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the Muslim-Jewish quandary and the possibilities for peace in the future. The book serves as an excellent resource for increasing knowledge and awareness on the issue from writers of both Muslim and Jewish faiths.

Aside from this chapter, Al-Marayati was also quoted for the marketing campaign of Paul Findley’s new book, “Speaking Out: A Congressman’s Lifelong Fight Against Bigotry, Famine, and War.”

“Paul Findley illustrates how interfaith relations is key to peacemaking in the twenty-first century, with one central value to follow--justice. Understanding his work will strengthen America for the future,” Al-Marayati said.

Few politicians in America’s history have been so openly critical of their government, and Findley was one who stood for peace and sensibility in U.S. foreign policy. He has also criticized Israel's lobby and its toll on the US. Findley lived through America’s most tumultuous era of the modern day, and his autobiography is definitely one to read. 

--Zaki Khan
(zaki@mpac.org)
Communications Intern