Today, Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world. As per Pew research Islam will become the worlds largest religion growing by 70% from 1.8 billion in 2015 to nearly 3 billion in 2060. This will be twice as fast as the overall world population between this period.
The history of Muslims in America goes back more than 400 years. The first documented arrival of Muslims happened in the 17th century with the Arrivals of Slaves from Africa.
The next wave of Muslim immigrants happened in the 19th century when a large number of Arab immigrants from Lebanon and Syria arrived in the US. After the passage of the Immigration and Nationality Act in 1965, a greater number of Muslim migrants came to America for economic and welfare reasons.
With the change in immigration laws to attract skilled workers, many IT professionals from South Asia have migrated to the US during the last two decades.
As per Wikipedia according to a 2017 study, Muslims in America form 1.1% of the American population and Islam is the third largest religion in the United States after Christianity and Judaism. Muslims in America come from various backgrounds including 25% black, 24% white, 18% Asian, 18% Arab, 7% mixed race, and 5% Hispanic.
The Muslim population growth is also expected in the United States where pew projects that it will double from 1 percent (3.45 Million) currently to 2% (8.1 Million) by 2050 and Muslims will become the second largest religious group bypassing Judaism.
As the population will grow, the US will have to come to terms with accepting Islam and Muslims as an important part of the national fabric. Muslim population, as it grows, will have to play its positive role in the building of this nation so that there is greater acceptance of Islam in the society similar to how Jews have established their recognition for Judaism as a religion in America.
Muslims living in America and other Non-Muslims countries need to feel good about their religion and being Muslims in general. We need to advertise ourselves through our good character and deeds, helping our friends in need and giving charities to build communities. Reaching out to our Non-Muslim neighbors, being courteous to them and portraying Muslims and Islam in a positive way is the only solution to fight Islamophobia around the Western World. We have created this platform with the same intentions. Share stories, help the community and overcome challenges.
American Muslims 