Chicago: Radio show aims to give Muslims voice

From Omaha.com, with thanks to Ali Dashti:

CHICAGO - Some Chicago-area Muslims have launched their own talk radio program, deciding it will be the best way to break down stereotypes about their faith.

"Whenever I hear the word 'Muslims' in the news, it is always followed by something negative, a car bombing in Iraq . . ." said Jenan Diab, producer of "Radio Islam," which debuted recently on WCEV-AM (1450). "We want something positive for Muslims."...

Producer Abdul Malik Mujahid agreed:

"For example, people think many Muslims don't condemn beheadings and terrorism," he said. "We condemn it every day, but nobody hears about it."

I am not among those who think that Muslims don't condemn beheadings and terrorism, but I am aware, in light of some vague wording and obvious loopholes in some of these condemnations, and also because of the Islamic practice of taqiyya, or religious deception, that some people have legitimate concerns about just how sincere and encompassing these condemnations are. I'm also concerned, as my exchange with Mustafa Akyol illustrates, about the ability of moderate Muslims actually to stand up to and refute radical Muslim justifications for their actions.

Accordingly, although I know it's gauche to invite onself anywhere, I'd like to offer my services as a guest on this new radio show. I would be ready with some pointed questions, but if these questions were answered satisfactorily, this station would go far toward achieving its apparent goal of reassuring non-Muslim Americans about Muslims and Islam. Diab and Mujahid are welcome to contact me at director@jihadwatch.org.