American Muslim Council
Definition
The American Muslim Council (AMC) is a prominent American Muslim political action committee focused on raising awareness about international Muslim concerns, particularly related to geopolitical conflicts and the welfare of Muslim communities globally.
Etymology
The term “American Muslim Council” combines “American” to denote the organization’s location and demographic, “Muslim” referring to the religious affiliation and “Council,” derived from Latin “concilium,” meaning assembly or gathering.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: المجلس الإسلامي الأمريكي
- Turkish: Amerikan Müslüman Konseyi
Activities and Influence
The AMC works extensively to highlight the issues facing Muslims in regions such as:
- Cyprus
- Kashmir
- Bosnia
- Kosovo
- Bulgaria
- Somalia
Leadership from the AMC has been active in national political spheres, including attending Islamic celebrations at the White House, a testimony to their influence and the acknowledgment of their contributions.
Political and Religious Alliances
The Council is noted for its capacity to bridge gaps across various social strata and has a history of forming petitions and issuing joint statements in collaboration with both Muslim and non-Muslim political and religious organizations.
Suggested Books for Further Study
- “American Muslims: Bridging Faith and Freedom” by Leila Ahmed – A comprehensive look into the history, development, and political activities of Muslims in America.
- “Islam in America” by Jonathan Curiel – Offering insights into the broader role of Islam and its adherents in the United States, including groups like the AMC.
- “Muslims in the United States: The State of Research” edited by Karen Leonard – A deep dive into the academic and practical understanding of Muslim organizations and their socio-political impacts in the U.S.
Takeaways
- The American Muslim Council serves vital community and global functions by advocating and raising awareness about issues facing Muslims worldwide.
- The AMC engages in high-level political discourse, contributing significantly to both Muslim and non-Muslim organizational statements and joint efforts.
- It is recognized and participated in by top-level U.S. political administrations, highlighting its importance in political and religious dialogues.
Conclusion
The American Muslim Council represents a crucial element in American socio-political and religious landscapes, providing a voice for international Muslim concerns and fostering interfaith and political alliances. This dynamic enhances the inclusivity of American society by acknowledging and acting upon the diverse needs of its Muslim communities.
