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In recent months, anti-Muslim forces have raised the specter of Sharia usurping the Constitution and destroying the American way of life. Bills have been introduced in more than two dozen states that would “ban” the practice of Sharia law—despite the fact that Sharia is not a collection of laws but a set of diversely interpreted guidelines for religious practice. In addition, no Muslim American leaders are calling for Sharia to override American laws. Banning religious freedom for Muslims is unconstitutional and would have serious consequences for international treaties and for religious expression in other faiths.
Join us for an enlightening discussion with a panel of experts who will explain the basics of Sharia, compare its precepts with those of Christianity and Judaism, dissect how it is being used as a wedge issue in political campaigns, and examine the the real impact on Muslim American communities.
Welcome:
Sally Steenland, Director, Faith and Progressive Policy Initiative, Center for American Progress
Opening remarks:
Shireen Zaman, Executive Director, Institute for Social Policy and Understanding
Featured panelists:
Professor Asifa Quraishi, Fellow, Institute for Social Policy and Understanding and Assistant Professor of Law, University of Wisconsin Law School
Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy, President, Interfaith Alliance
Faiz Shakir, Editor, Think Progress, and Vice President, Center for American Progress Action Fund
Moderated by:
Matthew Duss, Policy Analyst, Center for American Progress