While cable and dish services are swamped with religious channels, Muslims in the United States have unequal opportunities for access. MuslimChannels addresses this challenge with a unique approach, by offering the best of both worlds: Multiple live 24/7 broadcasts of religious, alternative news, and educational programming, as well as user video uploads, video sharing and formation of online communities.

Several alternative news broadcasts and shows are featured, such as Al Jazeera English, LinkTV, Press TV, and DemocracyNow. Religious programming will initially include two 24/7 live channels, featuring Huda TV and IslamChannels.

While the site opened this week with several hundred videos featuring documentaries, and educational content, libraries of other material are expected to be uploaded in the next days and weeks.

"We are optimistic many of our scholars and Imams from the 1,000-plus Islamic centers across the country, and our user base, will add tens of thousands of pieces of useful content," said Stephanie Khan, communication director of MuslimChannels.

No "sexual" content or "hate" videos will be permitted, she said, "finally combining education, clean entertainment, and broader news perspectives, all in one place."

Because the organization is nonprofit and run by volunteers, with a focus on building bridges and promoting peace and cooperation, users will have the ability to place free video ads, promoting their businesses and services, and use a special site feature to deliver their message.

Site address: http://MuslimChannels.tv. Features on the site explain content, the story behind the effort.