By Farhad Ghazali
The Pak American Arts Council of Greater Sacramento, CA hosted the formal launching of Mr. Abdus Sattar Ghazali's new book Islam & Muslims in the 21st Century.
Mr. Naeem Syed was MC of the event held on April 28, 2018 at Kabab Corner, Western Sacramento.
Marwa Fazal, a Ph.D student at the CSU, presented comment on the book written by Prof. Arthur Kane Scott, Professor of Humanities and Cultural Studies at the Dominican University of California and Board Member of Museum of the American Indian Novato, California.
Prof. Scott said the book is an exhaustive study that looks at Islam today and tomorrow. “Given its depth, it can become a significant resource for critical geopolitical and socio-economic analyses that takes place in think- tanks, universities, corporations, and other serious minded organizations who are genuinely concern with the future of the Muslim world, and its global import.”
Islam and Muslims in the 21st Century looks at the continued impact of the West, especially its hegemony, on political and socio -economic future of the states comprising the Muslim world, Prof. Scott went on to say adding: “I recommend Muslims& Islam unconditionally. There is so much to be learned and uncovered within its pages. It`s a literal treasure trove of insights about the global future and reach of Islam Muslims, as they and the world move deeper into the complexity of the twenty- first century.”
After Marwa Fazal, another comment by Dr. Habib Siddiqui was read by Imaad Ghazali, student at the CSU Hayward.
Dr. Habib Siddiqui has authored 11 books. His latest book - Devotional Stories is published by A.S. Noordeen, Malaysia. Dr. Siddiqui is an alumnus of the prestigious University of Southern California, Los Angeles, where he earned his Ph.D.
In his comments Dr Habib Siddiqui said that Professor Edward Said’s book –‘Orientalism’ – was published in 1978 and nearly four decades after its first publication, the book remains a modern classic. In this wide-ranging, intellectually vigorous study, Professor Saeed traced the origins of "Orientalism" to the centuries-long period during which Europe dominated the Middle and Near East and, from its position of power, defined "the orient" simply as "other than" the occident.
The trillion-dollar question that we must ask today is: has the situation improved since 1978 or even 2003?, Dr. Siddiqui asked and said the answer is provided by veteran journalist Mr. Abdus Sattar Ghazali in his book - Islam & Muslims in the 21st Century. He shows that our world is more divided politically and ideologically today than ever before despite the fact that we are more connected virtually via electronic alternative media.
“Mr. Ghazali shows that 39 years after the publication Professor Said book - Orientalism – modern imperialism never ended. While its goal to maximize benefits remains the same, its method to achieve that goal, however, has changed. It wants division along the fault lines - territorial, tribal, ethnic or whatever – so that the Muslim world remain ever weak,” Dr. Siddiqui pointed out and said: 
“Mr. Ghazail’s book is a treasure trove that delves into the problems and challenges faced by the Muslims of the 21st century by filling in the void left open after Professor Said death. I strongly recommend it.”
Dr Habib Siddiqui was published by Asian Tribune, Media Monitor Network and Milli Gazette of New Delhi.
Dr. Jesse Ortiz, Yolo County Superintendent of Schools, in his brief comments said that it is a timely book which looked at the historical, social and political perspective of Muslims.
He stressed that what is going on with the Muslim community must be documented from those who know it best.
Mr. Ghazali’s book pointed out that two days after the Trump election anti-Muslim attacks spiked, Dr. Ortiz said adding: “The book explains how negative rhetoric has continued in every state. This ignorance and lack of understanding continues toward the Muslim community.”
“Of special interest to me was how Mr. Ghazali explains the hate taught by the military to solders – that Islam as enemy. America is better than this,” Dr. Ortiz said.
Online Magazine launched in 2003
Executive Editor: Abdus Sattar Ghazali
