“The Dangers of Anti-Sharia Laws”
Read a March 2012 article by law professor Robert K. Vischer in the journal First Things. He argues that anti-Shariah laws set a dangerous precedent that could damage religious liberty for all, not just for Muslims.
Resources in: English
“Applying God’s Law: Religious Courts and Mediation in the U.S.”
The Pew Research Center released a report April 8, 2013, examining how major Christian denominations, as well as other faith groups, apply their religious laws to internal matters. Examples include Roman Catholic diocesan tribunals, which rule on marriage annulments, and Protestant disciplinary hearings for clergy who violate denominational rules about officiating at same-sex weddings.
“State Legislation Restricting Use of Foreign or Religious Law”
This April 8, 2013, graphic by the Pew Research Center gives state-by-state details about proposed or enacted legislation to limit use of foreign/religious law in court matters.
“Shariah or not, Muslim divorces can get tricky”
Read an Oct. 1, 2012, Religion News Service story about how anti-Shariah measures can complicate divorce for Muslim Americans.
“Citing risk to adoptions, Missouri gov. vetoes anti-Shariah bill”
Read a June 4, 2013, Religion News Service story about Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon’s veto of an anti-Shariah measure.
“Foreign Law Bans: Legal Uncertainties and Practical Problems”
The Center for American Progress released a report May 16, 2013, on the status of foreign-law bans throughout the United States.
“Foreign Law Bans: Political Statement or Unconstitutional?”
Read a May 16, 2013, Stateline.org article about state bans on use of Shariah and other foreign legal systems and whether those bans hinder international commerce or have other unintended consequences.
“The World’s Muslims: Religion, Politics and Society”
A survey released April 30, 2013, by the Pew Research Center explores the views of Muslims in 39 countries regarding Shariah.