PERKEMBANGAN ISLAM DI AMERIKA PASCA TRAGEDI WORLD TRADE CENTER

Abstract

This research is motivated by the dynamics of the development of Islam in the United States following the World Trade Center (WTC) tragedy. The aim of this study is to examine the growth of Islam in America, beginning with the arrival of Muslim slaves through transatlantic voyages and continuing with waves of conversions over time. This culminated after the WTC tragedy, which brought about various impacts on the Muslim community in the United States. This study employs a qualitative method with a library research approach. The primary sources consist of news articles and reports that circulated shortly after the WTC incident. The findings reveal that the impact of the WTC tragedy on American Muslims was not solely negative, such as experiences of discrimination and accusations of terrorism. On the contrary, the event also led to a significant increase in the number of converts to Islam. The curiosity of the American public toward Islam --being the religion accused of being behind the attacks-- prompted many to explore it more deeply. Furthermore, Islamic preaching (da'wah) intensified, contributing to the ongoing growth and development of Islam in the United States year after year.

Keywords: World Trade Center, America, Islam, Muslim.