February 28, 2008 

University of Massachusetts Students Suggest “Islam 101” Class Requirement - February 20, 2008

A recent issue of “The Daily Collegian” contained suggestions to institute a requirement for all students to take an “Islam 101” course, while studying at the University of Michigan. The article argued that considering that Islam is in the news every day, and will likely be a current topic for the foreseeable future, that such a class is not only warranted – but necessary.  Furthermore, the article suggests that there has been a strong media bias in regards...

February 18, 2008 

Pakistan Holds New Elections - February 19, 2008

Pakistan held its parliamentary elections this month, after lengthy delays and a postponement after former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto was assassinated. Initial polling showed significant victories for the Pakistan People’s Party, an opposition group to Pervez Musharraf’s Pakistan Muslim League N party. The elections occurred without incident, and were otherwise very well organized and maintained. Monitors indicated that there was no evidence of vote tampering, and that results...

February 22, 2008

The Islamic Information Center would like to mark the anniversary of the February 22nd, 2006 bombing of the Al Askariyan “Golden Dome” Mosque in Samarrah, Iraq. This mosque holds the tombs of the great grandchildren of Prophet Muhammad, namely Imam Ali Naqi Al Hadi and Imam Hasan al Askari, may peace be upon them all. Imam Ali Naqi al Hadi was an acclaimed philosopher and regularly engaged in productive discourse, insisting that disputes could be resolved through diplomacy and negotiation. Since such views were unpopular in a corrupt kingdom, he

In regards to this, those living in Maryland can get updated information on the following site.  http://www.elections.state.md.us/

Residents of Virginia can use this site: http://www.sbe.virginia.gov/cms/

Residents of Washington DC can use the following site: http://www.dcboee.org/

All others can utilize: http://www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/Voting.shtml

For more information please feel free to contact Islamic Information Center by emailing us at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

In regards to this, those living in Maryland can get updated information on the following site.  http://www.elections.state.md.us/

Residents of Virginia can use this site: http://www.sbe.virginia.gov/cms/

Residents of Washington DC can use the following site: http://www.dcboee.org/

All others can utilize: http://www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/Voting.shtml

For more information please feel free to contact Islamic Information Center by emailing us at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Alabama Muslim Lawmaker sees positive trends

February 8, 2008

State Representative Yusuf Salaam (D) is the only Muslim in the Alabama State Legislature, is amongst a growing trend of Muslim elected officials in the United States. Representative Keith Ellison was the first Muslim to be elected to Congress in 2006, and is helping to campaign for fellow Muslim Andre Carson’s election bit for a congressional seat in Indiana. Representative Salaam believes Americans are looking past religious labels, and voting on the issues. “I hope the average Alabamian can now overlook my religious label and see me as what I am — a strong patriot and a supporter of the American way of life,” said Salaam.

Presidential Candidate Plans Muslim Summit

January 30, 2008

Senator Obama, Democratic Presidential candidate recently told a French Magazine that he would plan a conference for the Muslim world if he is elected the President of the United States. The purpose of the summit would be to have “a discussion about how we can prevent the widening misunderstandings and gaps between the Muslim world and the West”. Promisingly, Senator Obama insisted “I will ask them to join us in battling terrorism but we should also be willing to listen in terms of some of their concerns”. He also stated that he would close the US Guantanamo prison camp in Cuba and end hostilities in Iraq.

Academics Condemn Hate Language

January 30, 2008

Dr. Juan Cole, a distinguished professor of history at University of Michigan, noted last week that language used in political spheres is being used to influence voters by playing to common stereotypes and misconceptions about Islam. Cole insists that this is a concerted effort to influence elections by fabricating an enemy, so as to induce fear in the masses. “They used to make them afraid of the Communists, now they are making them afraid Muslims,” says Cole.

Turkey debates ending head scarf ban

February 2, 2008

For several decades, Turkey has been one of the few countries in the world to ban head scarves at government offices and universities. This ban has been especially confusing considering that turkey has a 99.1% Muslim population. The Turkish ban began in 1980 in a military coup of the country and has been enforced against young women since then, however recently a new proposal has been gaining traction to change the constitution to allow women to wear head scarves. It is expected that this change will be passed into law.

Sobered reception to Presidential State of the Union Address

February 6, 2008

Last week President Bush delivered the final state of the union address of his presidency to a cool reception from most Americans. Despite lasting disaster and violence in Iraq, President Bush has claimed that progress is going well and violence is decreasing. Mr. Bush has made this claim every year since 2003. Political commentators noted that this final state of the union address likely will have no affect on US politics, as President Bush is fighting to shed his “lame duck” image.

Nearly 100 dead in Baghdad Blasts

February 2, 2008

Two bombers attacked two different markets in Baghdad, Iraq this week killing nearly 100 civilians. Later reports indicated had different psychiatric illnesses and were likely manipulated by Takfiri jihadists. This is the largest major attack in several months in Baghdad.

Injustice Towards Muslim Prisoners 01/2208

Muslim prisoners in correctional facilities across the country have been suffering unfair treatment due to their faith. In just one of many cases, an inmate had his prayer rug and quran confiscated without any hope of having them returned. A lawsuit filed by the inmate to regain his personal belongings has been shot down by the Supreme Court.

Obama Denies Being Muslim 01/21/08

Presidential hopeful Barack Obama has been denying allegations that he is a closet Muslim because his father was. Now that his campaign has moved into the Bible Belt, his faith has become a deciding factor for voters. The still lingering Islamophobia is evident by the concern and fear the thought of a President connected with Islam raises in American voters.

Mourning Shiites Targeted In Pakistan 01/17/08

The month of Mohorram started off with a fatal bombing for Shiites in Peshawar. A suspected Al-Qaeda undertaking, the bomb was detonated in a crowded Shi'ite mosque, killing four people and injuring many more. Al-Qaeda and other Wahabbi groups have regularly targeted Shiites, especially during the month of Mohorram.

Bombings At Iraqi Schools 01/22/08

Two different high schools in Baghdad were attacked by suicide bombers in an attempt by insurgents to infiltrate targets with lower security. Following the turning away of many former insurgents from Al-Qaeda and other terrorist organizations, such bombings are being used to instill fear into the Iraqi people. Attacks on civilian homes have increased as well.

Iraq Gets A New Flag 01/22/08

The Iraqi Parliament has decided to change the flag that flew over the nation under Saddam's rule. The decision was made following grievances presented by the Kurds and Shiites, both groups having been persecuted mercilessly during the Saddam era. A permanent flag will be decided on in a year, but for now small changes in the former flag are making a big difference towards unifying Iraqis.

U.N Recognizes Improvements In Iraq 01/21/08

A U.N Envoy recently praised the safer security situation in Iraq, brought on mainly by Sunni insurgents leaving Al-Qaeda to work with the Iraqi government. The envoy did point out that basic needs such as electricity and clean water still need to be made available to Iraqis on a large scale. The U.N feels that if the government and civilian organizations work together, 2008 will prove to be a successful year for Iraq.

Gaza▓s Humanitarian Crisis 01/22/08

Israel has had the Gaza strip shut off from the world since last June, causing an enclosed humanitarian crisis to develop. Fuel, medical supplies, even U.N relief efforts have been denied entrance as a form of collective punishment for the Palestinians. The blockade was breached on the Egyptian side a few days ago as the situation became unbearable. Israel has continued to justify its actions, disregarding international criticism and the plight of those suffering.

Bin Laden▓s Son Speaks 01/21/08

Bin Laden's son Omar spoke candidly about his father in a recent interview. Having grown up in Al-Qaeda training camps he walked away when he realized he'd have to kill innocent civilians. He hopes his father will mend his ways and return to the reality of Islam: peace. Omar is working towards that goal by organizing events to promote peace, and hopes to replace the stigma of his name with something positive.

Israeli Air Strike 01/16/08

A recent Israeli air strike into Gaza has killed a family of three. Israel says the missile was not intended for this family but for another, and missed its target. Air strikes into Gaza have increased in recent weeks, with as many as 15 deaths occurring in a single day.

Ashura In Iraq 01/19/08

In Karbala Ashura took place peacefully as nearly 4 million pilgrims gathered to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein. Some violence however did break out in the southern cities of Nasiriya and Basra, but was quickly quelled as security forces were brought in. Ashura and Shiite gatherings during Mohorram are commonly attacked by Al-Qaeda and various other Wahabbi groups.

Ashura Attacks Stopped 01/19/08

Pakistani authorities arrested 5 men who were planning suicide and bombing attacks to take place on large processions of people on Ashura. The day commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Husain has historically sparked violence perpetrated by Sunnis against Shiites. However the diligence of the Pakistani police has prevented a modern day mass tragedy from taking place.

Mayor Apologizes For Remarks 01/08/08

The mayor of a British town offended the people of his city, Muslims and non-Muslims, by referring to the Muslim community as backwards and violent. Following his comments, local civil rights groups demanded that he apologize. The mayor has apologized but his party will decide what step to take next.

Al-Qaeda Attacks In Iraq 01/08/08

Iraqi Awakening Council members were killed in suicide attacks by Al-Qaeda in predominantly Shia neighborhoods. The Awakening Councils are comprised of Sunni’s that have defected from Al-Qaeda in order to bring peace to Iraq. Al-Qaeda is hoping to establish control by using violence to persuade Sunni’s to maintain their alliance to the terrorist organization.

Prominent Sunni Leader Killed 01/07/08

A prominent anti-Al Qaeda leader in Iraq was killed in suicide attacks perpetrated by the terrorist group. The man, a former militant, had joined a local Awakening Council after leaving Al-Qaeda. This is just another attempt by the terrorist organization to garner dwindling support in Iraq by scaring the citizens.

Muslim Woman Treated Unjustly 01/11/08

A Muslim woman in neqab was treated unjustly and rudely during a court appearance in Britain by the magistrate present. Though the magistrate was reprimanded for his behavior, the woman was convicted of causing supposed damage to a previous home after she and her children were unceremoniously thrown out.

Anti-Muslim Bias 01/08/08

It is disheartening to find that republicans feel threatened by Muslims and are biased against them simply based on their religion. The extent of ignorance on the part of prominent politicians is frightening as they will be shaping the country. The irrational fear many non-Muslim Americans have can be dissipated if the Muslim community in America takes action to communicate the truth of Islam as opposed to what the media portrays.

2007 In Palestine 01/08/08

2007 was perhaps one of the worst years for Palestine recently as the level of external and internal violence increased. Unemployment levels shot up as well due to Israel closing off Gaza from the world. Nearly 80% of the population has come to rely on international aid efforts and NGO’s. Until Israel will cease its efforts, which are in contradiction to international law, innocent Palestinians will continue to suffer unjustly.

Muharram Commemorations begin worldwide

01/09/2008

This week, with the advent of the Islamic month of Muharram, hundreds of millions of Muslims worldwide will begin commemoration ceremonies for Imam Husain ibn Ali, grandson of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Them). Imam Husain was tragically martyred more than a thousand years ago in his quest for peace and justice, and has been a rallying point for Muslims and non-Muslims worldwide ever since. Mahatma Ghandi, famous Indian peace activist, is quoted to have said that he took inspiration for his peaceful efforts from the struggle of Imam Husain.

2007 Iraqi Civilian Deaths

01/01/2008

The past year was one of the most violent years in Iraqi civilian death rates. Over 24,000 civilian deaths were recorded; the majority of the deaths resulting from car bombings. The high date toll seems to be inconsistent with reports of a more stable Iraq, showing there is a long way to go before Iraqis will be truly safe from random violence. A stronger security program is needed in Iraq to ensure the safety of Iraqi citizens.

Pakistan Vote

01/02/2008

Following the assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, the first democratic elections in Pakistan in the past 8 years have yet again been delayed. Rising violence and rioting throughout the country sparked by anger over the politician’s death have been cited as the reasons for the delay. Her death is being attributed to Al-Qaeda sponsored extremists in Pakistan.

Scotland Yard In Pakistan

01/03/2008

President Musharraf requested Britain to send a Scotland Yard forensic team to help find out what actually killed Benazir Bhutto in last weeks attack. The team will help dispel doubts that Musharraf’s government had a hand in Bhutto’s assassination, which insists that it was an attack by Al-Qaeda factions within Pakistan. This may prove to be an astute move by Musharraf to garner public support before the delayed elections; now to be held in February.

A Year After Saddam’s Death

12/30/07

It has been a year since Saddam was executed for his crimes against humanity, yet his negative influence among his followers, predominantly Sunni Muslims, remains strong. Following his execution there was a vast increase in sectarian violence. The situation has since improved with Sunni’s defecting from Al-Qaeda in favor of cooperating with security forces. Bin laden has since warned Iraqi Sunnis to stop all work with American forces and Shia groups.

Bin Laden Tape

12/29/07

A recent tape released Bin Laden warns of attacks on Israel if Iraqi Sunni’s continue to defect from Al-Qaeda. Many Sunni tribes in Iraq have started participating with security forces and Shia political groups in order to unify the country. Since then a marked decrease in sectarian violence has been recorded throughout areas of former conflict. Al Qaeda hopes that by threatening the tribal leaders it will be able to reestablish its influence in Iraq, though with the improving situation of all those concerned it seems unlikely.

Historic Interfaith Meeting

01/02/2008

The Vatican will be meeting with Islamic scholars and leaders from around the world by March of this year to start an interfaith dialogue. The goal is that by opening communication and increasing mutual faith based understanding it will bring lasting peace to the world. The Vatican is making an effort to rectify disrespectful comments made towards Islam by the Pope in 2006.

American Muslims And Jews

12/24/07

Prominent Muslim and Jewish leaders in the country have come together to find ways for members of both faiths to support one another. They feel it will be easier in American society as the Muslims and Jews here are younger, professional and interact with eachother on a daily basis. Citing an incident in which a Muslim man came to the rescue of Jewish individuals, both communities feel confident that there already exists a common ground for both religions to understand eachother.

Muslim Cameleers In Australia

12/11/07

An exhibition honoring Muslim cameleers that opened up the deserts and inlands of Australia to settlement will be on display in Canberra. A largely unknown historical fact, Muslim cameleers from South Asia and Afghanistan arrived in large numbers to help others making expeditions into then uncharted territory. Some remained in Australia, making mosques and practicing Islam, and their descendants have provided diaries and other artifacts for the exhibition.

Young Muslim Rescues Jews

12/18/07

The Islamic Information Center would like to invite you to an event at the George Washington University, in Washington DC on February 23, 2008. The event is a lecture on "Understanding the Relationship between Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and Imam Husain (AS)" and will be delivered by Sayid Haider Bahar ul-Uloom.

The Islamic Information Center would like to invite you to an event at the George Washington University, in Washington DC on February 23, 2008. The event is a lecture on "Understanding the Relationship between Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and Imam Husain (AS)" and will be delivered by Sayid Haider Bahar ul-Uloom.

The Islamic Information Center will be holding an event at the Jafaria Islamic Society in Los Angeles, CA. Speakers will include Dr. Liyakat Takim, an Associate Professor of Islamic Studies at the University of Denver, and Imam Syed Naqvi, director of the Islamic Information Center.

The Islamic Information Center will be holding an event at the Jafaria Islamic Society in Los Angeles, CA. Speakers will include Dr. Liyakat Takim, an Associate Professor of Islamic Studies at the University of Denver, and Imam Syed Naqvi, director of the Islamic Information Center.

Article Extracted from MPAC Website

January 8, 2008

The Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) publishes a 2008 Election Guide

Article Extracted from MPAC Website

January 8, 2008

The Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) publishes a 2008 Election Guide

NY Times Article, by Neela Banerjee

WASHINGTON — The moment Nayyera Haq decided that she could no longer stay quiet as a Muslim on Capitol Hill came last summer when Representative Tom Tancredo talked about bombing Mecca. Read the entire article.