Browsing: ISLAMOPHOBIA

Two decades following the 9/11 attacks, the persistence of Islamophobia continues to cast a shadow over Muslims and Arab Americans. According to Pew Research in 2016, nearly half of Muslim-American adults reported experiencing discrimination personally. This discrimination became especially pronounced during the 2016 presidential campaign when then-candidate Donald Trump proposed a ban on immigrants from countries with Muslim majorities. Studies also reveal that, among all religious groups, Muslims continue to face the most unfavorable perceptions among the American public.

Surprisingly, more than half of Americans admit to not having any personal acquaintances who are Muslim. However, those who do personally know a Muslim are less likely to hold the belief that Islam promotes violence more than other religions.

It’s interesting to hear that in my recent visit to Malaysia, we observed Muslims and non-Muslims supporting Gaza, reflecting the diverse range of views within this Muslim country. This diversity in perspectives is not unique to Malaysia and can be found in many regions around the world.