Renee discusses the Muslim faith with her guests Ihsan Bagby, Islamic studies professor at the University of Kentucky; Shahied Rashid, member of the Islamic Society of Central Kentucky; and Dana Bingham, a recent convert, on the next Connections. The program airs Saturday, July 12 at 3/2 p.m. CT on KET1 and Sunday, July 20 at 11:30/10:30 a.m. CT on KET2.
The group discusses common misconceptions of Islam, the influence Muslims in America have around the world, the practice of polygamy and the major principles of the faith. They talk about similarities and differences between Christianity, Islam and Judaism, pointing out that the similarities far outweigh the differences among the faiths. They also examine Islam from an African-American perspective, putting forward reasons that African Americans may find the faith attractive.
Bingham discusses her choice to convert to the Islamic Society, and explains her role in the faith as a woman. She addresses the common perception that Muslim women are subservient to men, and can be violently punished for minor transgressions. While she chooses a life of piety and modesty, she says, she also decries violence against women who make different choices, calling it a corruption of the religion.
Rashid recalls his own conversion to Islam in the 1970s. He was inspired by Elijah Muhammad, who led the Nation of Islam until his death in 1975, and his followers.
Finally, Bagby talks about his experience teaching Islamic studies in a classroom full of mostly Christian Kentucky college students.
Connections with Renee Shaw is a KET production, produced by Renee Shaw and Carolyn Gwinn. More information about Connections, including streaming video, is available at www.ket.org/connections.
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