Islamophobia has played a major role in shaping the sociopolitical landscape of Western countries since the turn of the century. Unfortunately, women seem to bear the brunt of Islamophobic attacks because they are often the most vulnerable and visible targets.
Eleven years ago, I sat in the office of a pediatric specialist, seeking expert advice for a health problem my child was experiencing. On the examining table was one daughter – the 9-year-old patient – feeling apprehensive and overwhelmed.
Islamophobia is a pervasive and persistent problem for Muslims who live in the West. Negative stereotypes are perpetuated by media outlets and political leaders, often equating Islam with terrorism and painting Muslims as a threat to humanity.
Islamophobia and racism are two closely related evils. Both are centered around socially-constructed identities. Both involve labeling someone or some group as being different from a main group. Both may involve, to some degree, the use of physical appearance as an identifying factor.
When addressing the topic of Islamophobia in the Muslim community, the tendency is to focus on current events. Some of the manifestations of Islamophobia today are anti-Muslim legislation in Western countries, rising hate crimes, and smear campaigns on mainstream and social media.
Islam improves and enhances the culture within a nation and improves the lives of citizens, especially the women. Islam brings balance and order to societies. In the history of humankind, there is a tendency toward unfairness and subjugation of women. In Islam, we know this is wrong.
Many of us who have embraced Islam after being raised in another faith must cope with some complicated reactions from our non-Muslim loved ones. Some of them consciously or subconsciously buy into the popular misconception that Muslim women are oppressed.