Assalamualaikum!

This blog is meant to discuss Islam's role in American law and politics. As the Muslim population grows in the United States, issues of when, where and how Muslims can practice their own religion while being upright citizens (as Islam teaches us to do) are on the rise. Women wearing hijab (the traditional headscarf) or niqab (face veil) and men wearing a beard and a kufi (head covering) are looked at as strange, evil and backward. These view often have legal and political ramifications.

Also, Islam has both legal and spiritual components to it. Hence, many rights and duties Muslims are religiously obligated to perform may come into conflict with American laws. For example, do the Islamic rulings regarding marriage and divorce conflict with American law? Can there be a resolution if there is? How do Muslims make a shariah-compliant will that is recognized my U.S. courts?

Lastly, there are many legal and political issues Muslims face that have no direct connection to the religion, but affect Muslims as a society. The U.S. government may implement policies which are counter to Muslim-American interests and views. For example, Muslims immigrate to the U.S. everyday. What trials do they face? How do they overcome them? Where can they get help? Secondly, how do Muslims deal with the USA Patriot Act? The U.S. is the strongest ally Israel has.What effect, if any, does that have on American Muslims?

This blog welcomes all academic views on every one of these topics and much more. Enjoy!