Offers a basic introduction to the culture and religion of Muslim peoples around the world. Written for services providers and others working with Muslim refugees resettled in the United States, this book addresses the complex situations that result from the combination of a shared belief system and a diversity of cultural backgrounds across Muslim groups. Service providers are encouraged to build relationships with mosques and Islamic community organizations to enhance the effectiveness of resettlement agencies’ services. Discusses Muslims in the context of the world population and in the U.S.; the Muslim experience as refugees and also as providers of asylum to followers of Islam fleeing persecution; commonality and diversity among Muslim refugees; the Islamic worldview, the basic tenets of Islam, and religious practices and holy days; challenges in resettlement and adaptation of Muslim refugees, with an emphasis on housing, employment, education, health care, and safety and security; special concerns of subgroups of the Muslim population, including women, children, and the elderly; and special support networks. Also contains a glossary of terms central to Islam religion and culture, references and resources, and an appendix containing demographic data.
