You Can’t Ban What’s Always Been Here: Islam in America w. Kashif Shaikh

Even with the most urgent issues facing the US as we head into (Project) 2025, our foreign policy on the Middle East and Islam are right at the top. And if you think it only affects people overseas, just ask Muslim Americans how the consequences play out stateside in their everyday lives. This week, host Sarah Jones talks to Kashif Shaikh, president and co-founder of Pillars Fund, an organization that raises money to support Muslim American artists and civics groups as they fight Islamophobia. Kashif reveals the long history of Muslims in the US dating back to slavery, and how US narratives about Muslims hide the complex diversity and joy he sees in his community. Follow "America, Who Hurt You?" on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for more wisdom and encouragement throughout your week. This episode was executive-produced by Sarah Jones. Fiona Pestana is our producer. Johanna Case is our video editor, and Peter Geiser is our audio engineer. Kennedy Hill is our digital strategist. Thank you to Gina Delvac for production support.