New book counters myths about Muslims in America

A new book from a Rice University sociologist responds to stereotypes of and misinformation about Muslims in the United States from the time of the trans-Atlantic slave trade to the present day.

CRAIG CONSIDINE

“Muslims in America: Examining the Facts” (ABC-CLIO, 226 pages, $63) presents evidence-based documentation to provide a full and impartial examination of American Muslims. Author Craig Considine, a lecturer of sociology, reviews the history of American Muslims’ settlement and integration into the U.S.; explores the prevailing social, political, cultural and economic characteristics of American Muslims and their communities; and studies the ways in which Muslims’ experiences and beliefs intersect with various notions of American national identity.

Considine examines and critiques the leading social and political narratives surrounding American Muslims and the religion of Islam, including false or malicious claims about Muslims’ actions and beliefs regarding 9/11, terrorism, jihad, sharia and other significant issues.

“This book gives readers a clear and accurate understanding of the actual lives, actions and beliefs of Muslim people in the United States, rather than some of the misleading messages crafted by politicians, religious figures and media outlets,” Considine said. “I provide the facts about American Muslims and bring their voices and actions to light.”

Throughout the book, Considine answers 31 questions about Muslims in American society. The topics include American Muslims’ contributions to the U.S. (including employment and military service), their views on militant Islamic groups and their actions to counter Islamophobia as well as radicalization. Considine dispels widespread myths regarding American Muslims – including rumors of jihad training camps on U.S. soil and a preference to be governed by sharia. He also writes that Muslims condemn violent attacks by extremists and contribute significantly to the betterment of interfaith relations in the United States.

“The lies spread about American Muslims stoke unwarranted suspicion of a population that has always contributed to the betterment of the United States,” Considine said. “‘Muslims in America: Examining the Facts’ is a myth-buster that exposes anti-Muslim bigots as peddlers of propaganda and hate.”

Considine hopes the book will raise awareness about the truths and positive aspects of American Muslims while combatting Islamophobia across the country.

For more information on the book, visit https://bit.ly/2z4SK0w.