"White Power Barbie" is one way to label American women joining the alt-right movement. This guest post explores some of the reasons why American women become violent. “It mattered so much that she died for it.” A Trump flag wrapped around her like a superhero cape, Ashli Babbitt was fatally shot as she attempted to enter the Speaker’s Lobby. She was among the many insurrectionists that stormed … [Read more...]
Making the Most of Ramadan During COVID-19 And 6 Reasons To Fast
04/24/2020 By
Ramadan during COVID-19 presents unique challenges and benefits (6 reasons to fast are listed below). What Muslims can do to make the most of Ramadan during COVID-19 is the focus of this post to help the community, including myself, appreciate the blessings of this holy month. During the daylight hours, Muslims fast around the world, and are reminded of life's fragility and the need to … [Read more...]
A Young Woman’s Perspective on Living in a Time of COVID-19
04/10/2020 By
Before my second birthday, the worst terror attack the nation has ever seen took place in my childhood state of New York. Before my 13th birthday, 20 children between the ages of 6 and 7 years old were killed thirty minutes from my school. Before my 18th birthday, scientists put a 15-20 year timer on our planet’s health. Now, before my 20th birthday, I am quarantining in my childhood bedroom … [Read more...]
Revealing Facts About America’s Gun Control Problem
12/20/2018 By
America's gun control problem is spiraling out of control as more weapons fall into the wrong hands and innocent civilians are dying. A Time magazine article on guns in America illuminates the violent trend and examines both sides of this messy debate. According to the writers, "the gun debate stands frozen in the stalemate, advocates unable to agree even on the meaning of words." For example, … [Read more...]
The Rise of Far-Right Extremism In America Is A Worrisome Trend
12/13/2018 By
The rise of far-right extremism in America is a worrisome trend and some experts blame divisive politics. These days, domestic terrorism consists of a kaleidoscope of groups with varying agendas and ambitions. The data proves this. In an informative news hour program by PBS, the United States will experience violent attacks by far right extremists every year. Why is this happening? Click here … [Read more...]
Islam Is Feminism
09/16/2018 By
Some Muslim women today are using the word Islam and feminism as two separate concepts and ideas when for many Muslim women, including myself, Islam is feminism. Islam has a long historical tradition of respecting and recognizing the talent and sacrifices of its women. For years, I have been teaching my students in the US military and at universities that men and women are equal in Islam--a … [Read more...]
A Prayer For The Victims of September 11th and All Terrorist Attacks
09/11/2018 By
I remember the September 11th terrorist attacks clearly and before I can answer what I was doing, I offer a prayer for the victims, which include innocent American Muslims. That day is unforgettable, as it is for most Americans who were old enough to recall. As a young analyst in the U.S. Government, I happened to be on a military base when I watched the planes shatter glass and destroy thousands … [Read more...]
More Girls and Women Are Joining Violent Groups And Here’s Why
07/16/2018 By
Violent extremists are masterminds at exploiting empathy and giving girls and women a false sense of hope. Over the past five years, an astonishing number of girls and women have joined violent groups. Statistically, the numbers are low and no more than fifty females have tried to join ISIS or offer ideological, material, and financial support. While the number may seem low, it is a sign that the … [Read more...]
Why American Muslims Celebrate The Fourth of July
07/02/2018 By
American Muslims celebrate the fourth of July for the most obvious reason: they, too, are grateful to be here. There are many reasons to celebrate this glorious holiday. As an American woman, I grew up here. I spent my childhood in Texas and then moved to Washington, DC for graduate school and government work. This is the number one reason former immigrants like myself honor the national holiday: … [Read more...]
Conflict in America: Children Separated From Their Families Sparks Ongoing Immigration Debate
06/25/2018 By
Stories of children separated from their families is heart-breaking enough in conflicts around the world, but this time, it's happening right here in America. And it gets worse. There is a plethora of first-hand reporting and interviews of the trauma and terrible incidents taking place in US-funded centers for immigrant children, such as forcing children to take drugs. See video … [Read more...]
Understanding Islam
05/04/2018 By
In 2005, I had an experience that changed my life when I was asked to explain the history of Islam and modern-day conflicts to hundreds of U.S. military Captains. I was invited to Maxwell Air Force Base by the Commandant and asked to deliver a lecture on why Muslims are fighting each other in the Arab world. Why are Sunnis and Shias battling each other? What caused the split? And how do their … [Read more...]
A Shooting in San Bruno Raises Questions About Safety in America
04/03/2018 By
On Tuesday afternoon, a shooting in San Bruno, California is raising questions about safety in America. Again, an active shooter is at large and has proven how easy it is to perpetrate a deadly attack against a civilian target. This time, around lunchtime, the attacker gunned down several people at 901 Cheery Avenue, the address of the YouTube office. It's too early to tell who is responsible. … [Read more...]
Is America Safe Now That The Austin Bombing Suspect Is Dead?
03/22/2018 By
The Austin bombing suspect is dead, thanks to a tremendous law enforcement effort, but America is not yet safe from future attackers, serial killers, school shooters and other violent individuals. The one important question that authorities did not answer is why. Why did 23-year old Mark Conduit, a young white man from the peaceful town of Pflugerville, terrorize his home town and … [Read more...]
Who Is the Mystery Serial Bomber in Austin?
03/20/2018 By
A serial bomber has gripped the city of Austin, Texas, the fourth time this month as the latest bomb blast injured two men in a residential area and has left residents on edge while law enforcement agencies are scrambling to identity the mystery bomber. Austin is my hometown city. It is where I spent my childhood and young adult life. It's a peaceful place known for music aficionados, pristine … [Read more...]
How Many Innocent Civilians Are Killed By Drones Every Month?
09/15/2017 By
More civilians are being killed by drones than ever before. Often, we don't see the faces or know the names of the dead. Neither do the drone operators. Which is why many have stopped caring about "the casualties of war." Because we have simply accepted that innocent people will die in war. Or agree that terrorists are to blame for hiding among civilian populations--as if innocent people should be … [Read more...]
