Hussein Rashid

Hussein Rashid is an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Religion at Harvard University, specifically affiliated with Harvard Divinity School. He has taught at multiple institutions including Hofstra University, Fordham University, Iona College, and Columbia University, demonstrating a broad academic presence across the Northeastern United States.

His educational background is deeply rooted in elite institutions: he earned a PhD and MA in Near Eastern Languages and Cultures from Harvard University, an MTS from Harvard Divinity School, and a BA in Middle Eastern Studies from Columbia University. His academic journey reflects a strong interdisciplinary foundation in Islamic studies, theology, and cultural analysis.

Hussein Rashid’s research focuses on Muslims in America, especially their interactions with popular culture—such as music, comics, film, and digital media. He explores themes like Muslim identity, Shi’i justice theology, interfaith dialogue, and the racialization of Muslims. His work bridges academic scholarship and public engagement, often addressing contemporary social issues like Islamophobia, #BlackLivesMatter, and religious literacy.

His recent publications reveal a consistent engagement with religion in modern media and cultural expression. Trends include the use of superheroes as metaphors for Islamic ethics, the role of music (like qawwali) in American Muslim identity, and the complexities of interfaith and intra-Muslim relations. His co-edited volume Islam in North America (2024) represents a major contribution to the field, synthesizing diverse perspectives on race, gender, and sexuality in Muslim communities.

• Ariane de Rothschild Fellowship in Social Entrepreneurship
• Fellow, American Muslim Civic Leadership Institute
• Term Member, Council on Foreign Relations
• Fellow, Institute for Social Policy and Understanding

Hussein Rashid has been actively involved in public scholarship and advisory roles. He has served on editorial boards for Religion Dispatches, The Islamic Monthly, and CyberOrient, and is currently on advisory boards for the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art, Sacred Matters, Anikaya Dance Theater, and the Tanenbaum Center. He has received grants and fellowships supporting civic leadership and interfaith work. He mentors emerging scholars and collaborates with students on publications, though specific advisees are not named. He is also involved in media projects, including podcasts and videos, often focusing on religion and pop culture.

He is associated with several intellectual and creative collectives, including Anikaya (which he chairs), the Interfaith Center of New York, and the Graymalkin Lane podcast. His current work includes exploring the role of technology in teaching religion and contributing to public understanding of Islam through accessible platforms.