Schedule & Readings
The institute’s approach is a broad one, introducing the richness and diversity of Muslim cultures. We will offer a survey of the role of the word—written, spoken, sung, and illuminated across many societies, rather than a detailed study of any one culture in which Islam is the dominant religion. Following is an overview of the institute.
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UPDATED SCHEDULE COMING SOON
Sunday, July 15 at New York University (NYU)
Welcome reception and dinner at the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU
Monday, July 16 at NYU; Islamic Cultural Center
Introductory session with an overview of the institute with City Lore and Poets House staff
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Lecture: “The Language of the Qur’an and Its Influence on Literature” by Dr. Shawkat Toorawa, Yale University
Teachers’ content discussion with Dr. Toorawa and City Lore staff
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Excursion: A Tour of the Islamic Cultural Center of New York and discussion with Imam Chernor Saad Jalloh
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Lecture: “Allah is beautiful and loves beauty: On the Importance of Art and Culture in Teaching Muslim American History” with Dr. Zain Abdullah, Temple University
Tuesday, July 17 at NYU
Lecture: “The Sufi Strain in Classical and Modern Arabic Poetry” with Dr. Muhsin al- Musawi, Columbia University
Teachers’ content discussion with Dr. al-Musawi and City Lore staff
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Seminar: “Bridging Cultural Terrains through the Prism of Islamic Calligraphy” with artist Mitra Dejkameh, Queens Museum
Classroom Connections with City Lore staff