June 24, 2013

 In an effort to provide educational resources and information, the Muslim Public Affairs Council has launched the Speak Truth campaign, a series of 3-minute “Islam: Questions You Were Always Afraid to Ask” videos featuring Dr. Maher Hathout, MPAC’s Senior Adviser.

SEE: “Islam: Questions You Were Always Afraid to Ask” (mpac.org)

Speaking to a diverse group of young Americans, Dr. Hathout answers point-blank questions about some of Islam’s most controversial subjects, including women’s rights, homosexuality and ideological violence. The conversations were filmed at Southern California Public Radio 89.3 KPCC’s Crawford Family Forum.

The videos are intended for both Muslims and non-Muslims to gain a better understanding of the religion and how it functions hand-in-hand with today’s society.

 “Over the years, we’ve done a great job emphasizing that the fundamental principle of Islam is respect for human life and dignity,” Dr. Hathout said. “The extremist message is still out there and needs to be countered by mainstream Muslims – with a clear focus on the younger generation.”

Fifteen-year-old Fatima and eleven-year-old Manaeha Ro of Los Angeles said that the videos clarify the minds of kids and provide a sense of understanding for questions they might be afraid to ask.

The statement in part reads:

“If you are a youngster who ponders questions about Islam but are truly nervous to ask some adult because it might bring you to a stage of ‘awkwardness,’ which you do not want to approach, these videos are for you. This is why these videos are extremely beneficial to kids; they are an excellent source of information. Dr.Hathout illuminates these questions in a way everyone can understand and laugh about.”

Dr. Hathout’s has written extensively on Islam, human rights, democracy and Middle East politics. He is also the host of the bi-weekly "Straight Talk Podcast," honest conversations about relevant, inclusive and practical Islamic thought available on iTunes.