Islamophobia Has Forced US Muslim Community to Evolve

As a faith leader who regularly delivers the Friday sermons at our local Islamic centers, I always emphasize the message of integration, where Muslims not only positively integrate into mainstream American society but also join the local and national politics of this country. The tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, were a wake-up call for the Muslim community. This was the first time we felt that if we don't educate our fellow Americans about our faith and speak ourselves, others will speak for us and define us.