Issues of Indian Muslims in US not different from those in India
WASHINGTONL: The issues facing Indian Muslims in America are not too different from Indian Muslims living in India, except for their living standard and access to education and other opportunities, says president of the Indian Muslim Council-USA.
In an interview, published on Saturday by Hindustan Times, Rasheed Ahmed, president of the Indian Muslim Council-USA (IMC-USA), said, When I say they are not too different from Indian Muslims, what I mean is just like the larger community in India does not understand the unique challenges of Muslims, the larger Indian American community in America does not understand them either.
He said Indian Muslims by and large are a well to do community in the US. A significant number of them are professionals from engineers to doctors. More Indian Muslims are entering trade and other businesses.
He admitted that after 9/11 there was a pause in Muslims participating in mainstream American politics. But of late, there is a grassroots effort going on.
Muslims in the US come from over 65 countries and have very diverse backgrounds. Yet there is a remarkable cooperation and a sense of community that can be used for more cohesiveness and maturity.
IMC-USA was formed in 2002, after the Gujarat riots in India. ppi
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007\07\01\story_1-7-2007_pg7_49