Written by Theresa Corbin

A couple of weeks ago, I gave a talk inviting people to understand Islam and the Muslims in Memphis, TN. I had many fears before going to Tennessee. Having read about anti-Muslim sentiment in Murfreesboro, TN, I fully expected to be shot.

I went anyway. And instead of hostility, I found the Memphian community full of interfaith camaraderie. I found Muslims working hard to enrich their community and create an atmosphere that fosters understanding and cooperation. I found warm and welcoming non-Muslims who greeted their Muslim neighbours- and me!- with big smiles and kindness.

My experience in this amazing community has enriched my life (and my waistline. Their BBQ ain’t no joke) in so many ways I cannot even begin to explain.

In order to raise awareness about my talk, I had the opportunity to speak about my topic in interviews on TV and radio.

What follows are my interviews:

On TV: Click me: WREG

On Radio:

* Hajar’s son’s name was Ishmael (Peace and blessings be upon him).

**please note that Sarah was not the one who made Abraham leave Hajar in the desert of Mecca. This was a directive from God. I just learned this and feel embarrassed that I let my former Christian understanding of the story — that can be very misogynistic (Eve responsible for the first sin. Not true in Islam)– shape my attitude toward Sarah. 😦

I hope to post the video of my talk “An Open Invitation to Understanding Islam and the Muslims” next week. So stay tuned!

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