The introductory chapter situates the sociopolitical context in which Muslim Americans find themselves in contemporary America. They appear to be front and center in contemporary American politics, occupying a prominent space in the national discourse.  The chapter also introduces who Muslim Americans are and highlights the diversity within the group and emphasizes that intersectionality is important to consider when evaluating the status of Muslim Americans. Next, the chapter argues that Muslim Americans, despite being a religious minority, have been racialized. Finally, the chapter concludes with a plan for the rest of the book.