Cultural Muslims are hidden in plain sight – no more!

Though Muslims come from a plethora of ethnic, national, and sectarian backgrounds, we share a common cultural heritage that derives from our rich religious tradition. We are also part a classic American tradition: forging modern identities infused with age-old heritages.

”Muslimness“ is one component of our layered individual identities. We make all sorts of personal choices about how to apply tradition to our own lives:

• Some have no connection to religious practice and never set foot in a mosque.
• Others are deeply religious yet never foot in a mosque.
• You can recite Al-Fatiha every morning and not wear hijab.
• Some fast during Ramadan but drink alcohol; others never fast but never drink.
• Others are pious and accept as equals fellow Muslims who are not.
• You may never pray yet go on hajj, enjoying an intense spiritual ritual of belonging.
• You can go on Hajj and date a non-Muslim.
• Some have Christmas trees in their homes.
• Some are well-versed in Muslim texts but do not apply religious rituals to their daily life.
• Others have no background except perhaps short prayers learned from their grandparents.
• Some marry non-Muslims and raise children in multifaith families.
• You can fast during Ramadan and not attend prayer services.
• Some have a parent who is not Muslim and a connection to non-Muslim traditions.
• Some joyously celebrate Eid without having fasted during Ramadan.
• Some do not believe in God.
• Some want their children to “be Muslim”; others prefer their children define themselves.
• Some are not always sure they are Muslim.

Despite this diversity, our community is beset by stereotypes of who Muslims are and should be – stereotypes imposed from without and from within. Voices of Cultural Muslims are rarely included – and often quickly dismissed – in discussions about Muslim representation that impact our lives. Yet Cultural Muslim Identity can play a powerful role ameliorating negative perceptions.

Cultural Muslims often shape our identities in silos and in silence. Until now we have not emerged as a coherent community. It is time to come together as a mosaic, celebrating how we make powerful and creative contributions to society.

We can be proud of our heritage, free from the stereotypes of others, at peace with ourselves as unique individuals, and connected to one another via a shared awareness of our Cultural Muslim identity.