I apologize for being slow on comments and on emails. For those who don’t know, I am an Islamicist (not and Islamist). So when things like the London bombings happen, I spend a lot of time going around and giving talks, writing briefing papers, and responding to the media. Most of what you get here are my first thoughts, and your feedback remains invaluable. I hope to catch up with most of the comments today and tomorrow.
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So what do you do with Mozarabs?
Courtesy of TPM comes a link to a Slate article that points out the New York Times Company needs to enter at least the 19th century when talking about Islam.
Kudos
Congrats are in order to two of my regular read: 1. Svend at Akram’s Razor made it on to Beliefnet’s Top 10 list of Muslim blogs. 2. Aziz is now at Beliefnet with City of Brass. This news is old, but I’m late to the party. Great job by two deserving individuals. Also, good job by Beliefnet recognizing the talent these guys represent.
Back to the open letter
Two weeks ago I posted an open letter to Bush and Kerry. At the urging of the Velveteen Rabbi, I actually sent it – electronically – to both candidates. I thought I should give an update. I got an almost immediate response from the Kerry campaign, a canned letter that thanked me for writing, but that I should understand while they try to read everything they get, it may take weeks before anyone actually gets to my submission, and they may never respond. The Bush campaign never responded. They didn’t even bother with the automated message. I think that’s kind…