Islamophobia

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.

Islamophobia is real. You may have personally experienced it or know a family member, friend, or acquaintance who has. You may hear of news accounts which describe incidents of harassment, violence, and even murder. And it is happening all over the globe.