[Islam-Online- Politics]

Q: You have hosted leading figures from various Islamic movements, and in turn been charged with being a supporter of terrorism. Some have even gone so far as to claim the American Muslim Council is little more than a front for extremist groups, chastising the President and Mrs. Clinton for associating with you. What is the American Muslim Council's relationship with such figures and how do you feel about the allegations?
A: We are proud to have hosed a range of Muslim leaders, including Mirza Baig, the Pakistan Army's Chief of Staff; General Hamid Ghul, the Pakistan Army's Chief Intelligence Officer; Professor Najmuddin Erbakan, Turkey's Prime Minister; Dr. Hassan Al-Turabi, a leading Sudanese ideologue; Dr. Khalid Al-Madhkur from Kuwait; Dr. Muhammad Tantawi, Sheikh of Al-Azhar University, Mr. Mahfoudh Nahnah of Algeria; the Mufti of Tajikistan; Bosnia's President Alija Izetbegovic; and many others.
We invite such figures to keep American Muslims abreast of international issues, as well as exposing our fellow Americans to the rich diversity of ideas being implemented abroad. We may not agree with our guests on certain matters, but that's irrelevant. The Muslim community has a right to speak with and meet such leaders and to bring issues to them for discussion. By being in touch with these issues, the Muslim community can then make informed decisions and exert positive input at home and abroad.
As far as the allegations are concerned, they are simply absurd. They are little more than the fanciful grumbles of an inconsequential few. These people selectively forget our bold stance during the Gulf War, our support of the Mideast peace treaty and our efforts in Bosnia. How our work can be construed as somehow linked to terrorism can only be explained in their puerile minds. Our record stands up to scrutiny, and it'll take more than the concerted efforts of a few self-interested parties to tarnish our name.
Q: Given that the American Muslim Council voices its support for Islamism, what is your view on those who question where your loyalties lie?
A: On a personal level, I'm obviously loyal first and foremost to God. As far as the American Muslim Council is concerned, there can be no doubt that we are an American organization - an organization committed not only to the advancement of Muslims, but also to the strength and prosperity of a strong America. Anyone who questions our integrity or our dedication to this great nation better be prepared for a fight. Going to court can be costly these days.
Q: Recent polls show that Americans associate Islam with terrorism. What are the reasons and do you think Americans will change their views?
A: Americans will definitely change their views, but this will take time. Americans associate Islam with terrorism because Muslims themselves don't do enough to define or defend their faith to the broader society. Muslims do have their own problems, I accept that, and as a minority such difficulties are accentuated. But I firmly believe that there is no excuse for the status quo. By keeping silent, we are guilty of allowing stereotypes and attacks to continue unabated.
While most Muslims are inactive, there are also a few who don't appreciate the bounties available in America. They disrespect their own community by acting improperly. They can be quite hypocritical - on the one had abusing privileges America offers while simultaneously denigrating the United States. Having said that, I must also commend all the Muslims who work tirelessly to promote Islam as a faith and a culture.
We cooperate with many Muslim organizations to change the negativity directed towards us. The only reason I chastise Muslims is that we need their help. We can't go it alone. A survey we commissioned in 1993 showed that 30% of Americans do not want Islam in America, the same proportion had no problem with Islam and 40% knew nothing about Islam or Muslims. So, that means that 175 million Americans either don't know us or view us impartially. With about 6 million Muslims in the United States, we need every one of them to get involved. It doesn't matter which organization they feel comfortable with, only that they are doing their part to do Islam justice. The American people are generally fair and open minded. It's up to American Muslims to come out, introduce themselves to the larger American community, and work with them. Staying in our cocoons perpetuates the perception that we're either foreigners or radically abnormal. We can remain proud of our Islamic identity while building bridges. We have centuries of culture behind us, and Muslim society has some of the most intelligent minds in the world. Although I sometimes criticize my community for not doing more, I do so out of a belief in their capabilities to excel in every sphere of American life. It's as though I am looking at my best friend whom I can see is a genius, but spends his time watching soap operas. It hurts to see that mind go to waste. So, however much he may resent my nagging, I'll keep prodding him to hit the books and turn the television off.
Q: Do you feel the media gives Muslims and Islamic movements balanced coverage?
A: No. The media is definitely not evenhanded, but to achieve balance, we must not whine. We cannot fall into the trappings of being victims. Others are exercising their rights to speak their minds and so should we - rationally, objectively, and professionally. Our task is to become innovative. For example, we arranged the Iftar Dinner on the Hill, the White House Eid reception, and it is now normal practice for the President to congratulate Muslims on our Eids. Muslim Imams also deliver prayers in Congress. These small but powerful examples show how we can achieve positive media coverage. We must also become more involved in mainstream media, and encourage our youngsters to work in the field. No one will do it for us. Fortunately, there are a few media outlets employing Muslims. I can see wonderful things in the future. We'll have Muslim anchors, journalists, columnists and reporters in mainstream media doing as good a job, if not better, than their colleagues.

Politic Next Back End