How Youth Combat Islamophobia?

A random man yelling “get out of my country, you terrorist” to all practicing Muslims who observe rituals in west is typical these days. Such hate crimes against Muslims have increased since last six years but nowadays they have reached an unlivable limit. Islamophobia is prejudice or dislike against Muslims, especially as a political force. Spreading rumors that hijabi Muslims are oppressed, cannot stand for themselves, especially calling out that they are narrow minded is hurtful to all those who want nothing but peace. To all those who carry themselves this way are just because they believe in simplicity and modesty. Muslim males who have beards and go to mosque to fulfill their duties and obligations towards their Creator are looked upon as terrorists. The fathers who are the ideal for their generation are now called upon as those who spread hate. How can their children accept that? Won’t they get rebellious? But they are told by their fathers to be patient; everything will get better with time.

However, youth has eyes, they can see what’s happening, they have ears, they can listen to what is going on and they are open-minded, they can make a judgment between fair and unfair, right and wrong.

To fight against Islamophobia, we should never forget behavior of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). How forgiving and merciful he was and indeed he is a great example for all of us to follow.

Good and Evil deeds are not alike. Requite evil with good, and he who is your enemy will become your dearest friend. But none will attain this save those who endure with fortitude and are greatly favored by God. (Quran 41: 34-35)

Our duty is to recognize that incidents of Islamophobia are not isolated. Bombing sacred places, threatening lives, profiling other religions, thinking they look like Muslims, disrespecting our Holy Quran are all signs of Islamophobia.

Racism, anti-Semitism and Islamophobia are all fruits of the same tree. We all should get united and combat it.

For every event of Islamophobia, youth should write a letter to local rights committee and raise voice against the crime. 

In interfaith meetings, we should always bring up Islamophobia to raise awareness. In mosque there should be some events in which kids could brainstorm about hate crimes and provide their suggestions.

Thank you to all those who stand united with us against Islamophobia. There are 75 million Americans who, despite all Islamophobic media, think positive about Islam and Muslims. So far, the UK is the only country which has officially commissioned a report on Islamophobia. With your support and Allah’s help, we will be successful Insha’Allah.