Lutherans for Racial Justice (LRJ) talks Islamophobia and anti-Muslim racism with Jordan Denari Duffner

Islam is not a race.

Muslims are not a race.

And yet, over time and in many and various ways, religious traditions and religious people have been racialized. 

That is to say, certain religions have been made into racial categories. 

Although there are many different people groups that can and do practice Islam is one of those religions that has been racialized. 

As a result, Muslims and others (like Sikhs) have been racially abused because of that fact. 

That’s why I think this conversation with Jordan Denari Duffner and her new book — about Islamophobia, what it is, and what Christians should do about it — is an important consideration for Lutherans in pursuit of racial justice. 

For Christians, learning more from Muslims, and how they suffer from racialized prejudice, injustice, and abuse — often because of our thoughts, words, and deeds — can help us better fulfill our call to love our neighbor.

Facing diversity, one step at a time

If you've met me, it doesn't take long to figure out that I'm passionate about running. Whehter it's marathons, mountains, or just a morning jog -- I'm game..

And, by now, most everyone who visits this blog can figure out I am passionate about religion and helping others navigate religious diversity.

That's why I'm super excited to share Fauja Singh Keeps Going: The True Story of the Oldest Person to Ever Run a Marathon with you.

Not only does it tell a story about perseverance in the face of adversity, but it also opens up conversations about religious diversity, discrimination, and what we can do to better interact with our neighbors of different faiths and walks of life.

For this project, I partnered with Lutherans for Racial Justice -- a grassroots coalition of Lutherans that seeks to bring about both racial reconciliation and reform within the congregations and communities of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.

The video above features a reading of Fauja Singh Keeps Going. I encourage you to watch, give it a listen, and share it with your family and friends. Then, to go that much deeper into the discussion about humanity and humility, you can watch an interview with the author -- and my dear friend -- Dr. Simran Jeet Singh.

In the comments below, let me know what kind of discussions you have, what questions are raised, and how we can work together to continue the conversation.