In a time that feels surreal, merely ten days into a presidency that many struggle to comprehend, I find myself overwhelmed with fear—not just for my own safety, but for countless others around me. Anxiety weighs heavily on my heart as I contemplate the state of the world.
I identify as an American Muslim, having embraced Islam as my faith. This journey has never diminished my sense of self-worth, yet I now confront daily acts of discrimination. Alongside my own apprehensions, I empathize with those desperately longing to reunite with family members barred from entering our country due to the recent travel bans.
Raised in a Christian household, I attended church services each week with my father. The principle of treating others as I wish to be treated guided my upbringing. Although my father wasn’t overly religious, he instilled in me the importance of faith in God.
Throughout my life, I forged friendships with individuals from various belief systems, including those who identified as atheists. I never questioned how I ought to treat them, as I regarded them simply as fellow human beings.
What many fail to grasp is that the harassment currently prevalent in our nation is not confined to a particular faith; it encompasses anyone who advocates for the right to worship freely. Perhaps I was overly optimistic in believing that my friends and family would accept me, even when they witnessed me in hijab for the first time.
One incident starkly highlighted my misplaced trust while I was shopping. My phone rang with the Adhan—the call to prayer—while I stood in line. Typically, I would silence any notifications, but that day, my hands were full. As “Allahu Akbar” echoed from my pocket, I felt a wave of shame. I knew that many associate those words with terrorism, and I hurried to silence my phone.
A woman behind me scoffed, whispering to her friend, “Isn’t that your cue to get on the ground to pray to your God?” Stunned, I stood frozen. Time seemed to halt as others around her shifted their attention to magazines and wallets, clearly uncomfortable but remaining silent. After I paid, she smirked at me, seemingly proud of her remark. I noticed the crucifix keychain she held and couldn’t help but wonder why she believed that my call to Allah was so different from her own prayers to God.
The day before the election, my ex-husband threatened my life due to his political beliefs, shouting, “If he doesn’t take care of you, then I will!” I’ve been told by those I thought would support me that I haven’t been a minority long enough to feel upset by current events. Friends and family have texted and called, insisting that I brought this upon myself.
Just yesterday, while cleaning my hotel room, a housekeeper spotted my Quran on the desk. She laughed and remarked, “You’re not making bombs in here, are you?” She didn’t even look at me. This type of behavior has become disturbingly commonplace, and it saddens me.
I often feel anger towards my fellow Americans who have grown comfortable with stereotyping those who differ from them. Yet, I must remember that ignorance and fear often fuel this intolerance. Despite the negativity, I also cherish the support I’ve received from friends who have defended me repeatedly.
To my fellow Muslims, I say this: Even on the scariest days, especially when witnessing families torn apart or individuals turned away, we must hold onto hope. For every critic, there are many more who wish to extend love and support. Let us cling to the true essence of Islam—peace, love, and hope. Remember the teachings of the Quran, and do not turn away from others in need. This commitment is what initially drew me to Islam, and I pledge to uphold it.
As I conclude this reflection, the Adhan calls me to prayer. I will heed that call for as long as I live, undeterred by shame or fear. Insha’Allah.
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Summary
The author shares her experience as a proud American Muslim facing discrimination and fear in a turbulent political climate. Despite the challenges, she emphasizes the importance of hope, unity, and the core values of Islam. She encourages others to remain steadfast in their faith and to recognize the love that exists alongside the hate.
Keyphrase: American Muslim resilience
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