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New
Directions in Islamic Thought and Practice:
Exploring Issues of Equality and Plurality
Affirming
dynamism
of continuity and change as the true legacy of the broad and rich
Islamic tradition,
Drawing on the creative capacity of Muslims everywhere for
positive transformation in the face of new challenges and concerns,
Asserting the human agency of Muslims to pursue their priorities
on their own terms, to promote values of mutual respect, equality,
and social justice,
This initiative of Muslim scholars and public intellectuals, in
cooperation with other concerned scholars, seeks to provide an independent
forum for identifying and applying the enduring findings of modern
reformist thinking to the most pressing issues facing Muslims today,
whether they constitute the majority or a minority.
The first focus of this initiative is the exploration of issues
of equality and plurality, as determined by the actual experiences
and best practices of Muslims in their own local context. The first
two workshops on this theme will be implemented in 2004 in collaboration
with the State Institute of Islamic Studies (IAIN), Yogyakarta,
Indonesia, and the Faculty of Islamic Studies in Sarajevo, Bosnia-Hercegovina.
Other thematic issues may be added, and partner institutions identified,
as and when appropriate. In all cases, theoretical reflection shall
arise from, and be immediately applied to, local concerns that are
of the highest priority for Muslims.
These objectives are to be realized through a series of regional
workshops, public presentations, and media outreach, in local as
well as international languages. This initiative is also launching
a web site as a medium for constant consultation, exchange of ideas
and experiences, coordination of activities and development of the
capacity of local actors.
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