Online Dialogue about Islam

July 25, 2007

Author: Jane Lampman

Source: The Christian Science Monitor

http://www.csmonitor.com/2007/0725/p16s01-lire.html

Despite the plethora of news media today, most Americans say they know little about Islam, and most Muslims say the media doesn't make room for their voices to be heard. This week, a major news company is going all out to try to change that.

Through "Muslims Speak Out," an online open forum with clerics and scholars from around the globe, The Washington Post Company has invited Muslim leaders to address the issues most on the minds of ordinary Americans. For example:

What would you tell suicide bombers who invoke Islam to justify their actions? Is it permissible for a Muslim to convert to another faith? What are the rights of women in Islam? Under what conditions does Islam sanction the use of violence?