As Ramadan begins, it's the perfect time to recognize and appreciate the Muslim superheroes in the Marvel and DC universes. These characters have gained popularity among comic book fans and offer a unique representation of Muslim culture, breaking stereotypes about Islam.
Here are some of the most well-known Muslim superheroes:
Kamala Khan (Ms. Marvel) - Marvel Comics Kamala Khan, a Pakistani-American teenager from New Jersey, is the first Muslim character to have her own comic book series in the Marvel Universe. Her shape-shifting and body-stretching abilities help her fight crime in Jersey City. Kamala is also an advocate for diversity and inclusion. Superpower: Shape-shifting and body-stretching abilities
Simon Baz - DC Comics Simon Baz is a Lebanese-American Green Lantern who made his first appearance in 2012. He was introduced as the first Muslim superhero in the DC universe. A former car thief, Simon uses his Green Lantern ring to protect the world from evil. Superpower: Possesses a Green Lantern ring, which gives him the power to create constructs out of green energy.
Nightrunner - DC Comics Nightrunner, also known as Bilal Asselah, is a French-Algerian Muslim who was introduced in 2011. Batman trained him to fight crime in Paris, and he uses his acrobatic skills to outmaneuver his opponents. Nightrunner's appearance in comics was seen as a way to promote diversity in the superhero world. Superpower: Acrobatic skills and agility.
Dust - Marvel Comics Dust, also known as Sooraya Qadir, is an Afghan-Muslim mutant with the power to transform her body into a cloud of dust. She was introduced in 2002 and has appeared in several X-Men comics. Dust is a strong-willed character who fights for justice and the rights of mutants. Superpower: Ability to transform her body into a cloud of dust,
As Muslims celebrate Ramadan and Iftars, it's important to remember the contributions of Muslim superheroes in the comic book world. These characters offer a representation of Muslim culture and help to break stereotypes about Islam. They show that Muslim individuals can be strong, courageous, and inspiring heroes, just like any other superhero.