Purdue University professor Su’ad Abdul Khaber’s new book “Muslim Cool” focuses on the intersection of cultures – between hip hop, African American and Islam, theorizing that this is what is defined as “cool” in contemporary America. “’Muslim cool’ is a term that I’m using to describe a way of being and thinking about what it means to be Muslim in the United States,” says the author. “[It] manifests in different ways: conversations and ideas, but also style, fashion, and activism. I worked with young Muslims, ages 18 to 30, who were multi-ethnic. They were black, South Asian, and Arab Americans who were engaged in arts-based activism, and particularly hip-hop-based activism. “
“Hip hop is the soundtrack to my life,” continues Ms. Khabe. “Growing up in Brooklyn and particularly being a teenager during the golden era of hip hop made my connection with it even more meaningful. I was black and Muslim … and the music and culture of hip hop were replete with Islamic references and pro-black and pan-African messages.”
