America ReFramed Season 8 Episode 15 Brooklyn Inshallah

In this episode of America ReFramed, titled "Brooklyn Inshallah," the viewer is taken on a journey through the personal and communal experiences of a group of Muslim Americans living in the diverse and vibrant neighborhood of Crown Heights in Brooklyn, New York. The documentary follows the lives of three young Muslim women—Noureen, Jamilah, and Takbir—as they navigate the complexities of their faith, their cultural identities, and the challenges of living in a post-9/11 America.

The film begins with a brief historical overview of the Crown Heights neighborhood, which has long been home to people of different races, religions, and nationalities. We learn that it was here that tensions between the Jewish and African American communities exploded in the summer of 1991, leading to violent riots that left several dead and many injured. Against this backdrop of division and mistrust, the Muslim community of Crown Heights has thrived, with mosques and Islamic centers providing a sense of community and support for its members.

Noureen, Jamilah, and Takbir are all deeply committed to their faith and to their community, but they each have different experiences and perspectives that shape their lives. Noureen, a college student who grew up in Pakistan, is determined to challenge the negative stereotypes and misconceptions about Muslims that she encounters in her daily life. She is actively involved in Muslim Student Association and other advocacy groups, participating in rallies and protests to speak out against discrimination and injustice.

Jamilah, on the other hand, is a high school student who was born and raised in Brooklyn. She is proud of her Muslim identity but struggles to balance her faith with the pressures of teenage life. She wants to wear the traditional hijab, but worries about how it will be perceived by her classmates and friends. Her love for basketball provides a sense of refuge and self-expression that helps her navigate these challenges.

Lastly, Takbir is a young professional who works in advertising and also serves as an imam at a local mosque. He feels a responsibility to represent his faith and community in a positive light, but also experiences his own doubts and struggles. He questions some of the traditional interpretations and practices of Islam, particularly around the role of women and the treatment of LGBTQ individuals.

Throughout the film, we see the ways in which these three individuals and their families grapple with these issues and find strength and support in each other and in their community. We also witness the impact of national events, such as the travel ban and the rise of hate crimes against Muslims, on their daily lives and sense of belonging.

"Brooklyn Inshallah" provides a nuanced and empathetic portrait of Muslim Americans and their experiences. It challenges stereotypes and offers a glimpse into the richness and diversity of the Muslim community in America. The film is a call for greater understanding and empathy, and a reminder that in a time of division and fear, we are more alike than we are different.