Hussein Rashid

Academic. Speaker. Educator. Advocate.

2025

Books Media Appearances Religion Resources

Harvard Islamica Podcast

Hussein

In this episode, Dr. Hussein Rashid talks about his recently published volume, Islam in North America: An Introduction (Bloomsbury, 2024), which he co-edited with Huma Mohibullah and Vincent Biondo. Hussein discusses his trajectory as a scholar and how beginning his academic career in the post-9/11 world led him to believe in the importance of public-facing and accessible scholarship. The chapters of the book cover a wide range of topics related to Islam in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Caribbean and explore themes of race, gender, class, and sexuality, among others. Hussein sheds light on the long and little-known history of Muslims in North America, the changing perception of Muslims in the American imagination, and how Islamophobia/anti-Muslim bias and the racialization of Muslims manifest in the past and present.

Inter-faith Religion

Op-Ed: Understanding the Aga Khan, leader of Ismaili Muslims

Hussein

Understanding the Aga Khan, leader of Ismaili Muslims

The Aga Khan IV, who headed the Aga Khan Development Network, was often referred to as a philanthropist, a label that he himself called deeply inaccurate. According to broader Shi’ah belief, three interrelated elements are believed to elevate one another: faith, knowledge, and action. To increase in any one area, you must increase in the other areas as well, and together each amplifies the other. Most importantly, faith and knowledge without action is selfish and a denial of God’s blessings.

Media Appearances

RNS: Administrators at Harvard Divinity School quit, say school condoned hate

Hussein

Administrators at Harvard Divinity School quit, say school condoned hate

“Since I was a student here decades ago, I have been acutely aware of the anti-Muslim bias (amongst other racisms and discriminatory attitudes that exist here),” Rashid wrote. “That bias has only gotten worse and Harvard is not a space where I choose to spend my time. I have no interest in supporting an institution of white supremacy that actively seeks to harm me and mine.”

Events Inter-faith Politics Religion Video

Video: Beyond Borders: Antisemitism, Islamaphobia, and the Israel-Palestine Divide

hrashid

Join our speakers to examine the rise of Antisemitism and Islamophobia particularly in light of current events surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict. Participants will explore how these forms of prejudice manifest in public discourse, social movements, and media narratives, often exacerbating divisions and hindering constructive dialogue. The conversation will address the historical and cultural roots of these biases, their impact on affected communities. We will explore the question – what are the responsibilities of educators, policymakers, and activists in combating hate while fostering mutual understanding and respect?