US Congress to recognise Islam as great religion

WASHINGTON: The United States Congress, in a historic move, has taken a step toward recognising Islam as a great religion.

A resolution was introduced by Texas Democrat Al Green, at a time of renewed instances of Islamophobia across the globe. It was backed by US representatives Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlaib, and Andre Carson.

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The text points out that Islam is the second largest and fastest-growing religion of the world, with approximately two billion Muslims worldwide, with 3,500,000 Muslims living in the US.

The resolution defines Islam as “submission to the will of God” and “peace”. It also covers the pillars, practices, and rituals of the faith. It further recognises the Holy Quran as the primary scripture of Islam and divine guidance for Muslims.

The US Congress received the resolution on July 28 and referred it to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. Its aim is to foster a greater understanding of the Islamic faith and inter-faith harmony and respect within American society. It also hopes to discourage further instances of intolerance or desecration of the holy book.

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Green, who is also a member of the Congressional Pakistan Caucus, opposed President Trump’s order to ban immigration from Muslim countries and the 2015 move to brand Islam as a radical faith.