The objective of this seminar series is to explain the forces and factors behind the persistent decline in the social, political, and economic status of many Muslim minorities in Asia — such as in China, India, the Philippines and Thailand. Along with the socioeconomic decline is a narrowing of identity among citizens who are Muslims to often a purely religious identity. This contrasts with the more pluralistic identity that reflects their real heterogeneity by class, gender, and other socioeconomic characteristics.

A new Shorenstein APARC event series will explore the complex ties between identity and the social, political, and economic status of Asia's Muslim minorities.The seminar series will explore these issues with four speakers to cover key areas of interest in Asia, namely, China, India and Southeast Asia. Each speaker will cover one or more countries within the broad theme of Muslim identity, economic status, and political power.

This series of events is free and open to the public. However, some may require registration or an RSVP to attend. All events in this series will take place at Stanford's Encina Hall. Please check the website for more information on the events and to see the schedule. Asia Society Northern California is proud to co-sponsor two of the events in this upcoming series:

April 13, 2012
Comparing China's Islams: Muslim Minority Accomodation to Chinese Rule
Dru C. Gladney, Professor of Anthropology at Pomona College

April 25, 2012
The Political Presence of India's Muslims
Wajahat Habibullah, Chairperson at National Commission for Minorities, India