Islam & Modern Social Movements

Islam and Modern Social Movements

Anne Gray* & Mark Barrett*

Muslims’ commitment to social justice suggests a necessity for engagement in civil society. What challenges and opportunities confront Muslims within European societies in their pursuit of action to preserve the environment, and oppose unjust war and oppression? This topic will be approached from the perspectives of two people who have been political activists for many years before turning to Islam, and who see religious and political commitment as mutually reinforcing. There will be an opportunity to ask questions and offer insights. There is no charge and it is open to all.

* Anne Gray is an academic researcher in social policy. She has been politically active for many years in the peace movement, solidarity with Palestine, the European Social Forum movement, and in the Campaign against Criminalising Communities, which works to oppose the abuses of civil liberties associated with the anti-terrorism laws. She is also active in the Green Party. Brought up as a Quaker, she practised no religion for many years before turning to Islam in the past year.

* Mark Barrett originally trained in Law but now works as a tour guide for an educational travel company. He has a strong interest in the relationship between art and politics. His main areas of concern are the question of constitution, community land rights and how to establish a democratic model of globalisation. He is an active member of People in Common which works to end government restrictions on protest within the vicinity of Parliament while exploring possibilities for a new constitutional model. Originally brought to religious life via Buddhism and Quakerism, Mark has been much inspired by the poet Rumi. He is now exploring orthodox Islam and is particularly interested in the concept of ijtihad and its contemporary relevance.

Date: Sunday 11th November 2007

Time: 2.15 pm – 4.45 pm

Venue: 4th Floor, Muslim World League, Goodge St, London, W1T 4LU

Telephone: 0845 456 3960

Website: http://www.lineonweb.org.uk