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MABDA Report 14/11/2010

Why is it, that so many attacks on Islam and Muslims don’t receive news coverage? In all the news stories you read, imagine the roles reversed, and then think about how the news coverage would be different. Try it with the example below.

Parcel bomb forces evacuation of Dutch mosque

Last week a suspicious package made Dutch police evacuate Muslims from a Mosque in the Netherlands. The police declared that they do not know who was behind the attack.

“The parcel was found at a mosque located on the Bella Vista Street in Almelo town in eastern Netherlands on Wednesday morning. Police announced later that the suspicious package was a homemade bomb and the mosque was opened to people.”

For more information: http://www.islamophobia-watch.com/islamophobia-watch/category/anti-muslim-violence

There are many people around the world trying to make a stand against the hate-merchants/bloggers / media etc. We must acknowledge these people and events, and try to support in any way we can [be it with just an email].

Islamophobia panel promotes understanding, tolerance

The event took place at the Ohio University, where a group of students and professors gathered to clarify the misconceptions about Islam. Discussions were raised regarding the Islamic community center at Ground Zero, the rising feelings of hatred, resentment and fear towards Islam and Muslims.

Savas Kaya, Professor of engineering and adviser to the Muslim Student Association, said: “The perception that all Muslims are terrorists is the result of events that have occurred over the past five or 10 years, rather than the 1,400 years of Islam’s existence.” He further lamented that people had a misconception of Islam because they were not asking the right questions, nor were they conducting enough research.

Professors also agreed that students should mingle around with others, leave their comfort zone and actually talk to people who are from a different mindset. Once a person has learned more about something that is the target of racist comments or ignorance, they should correct those who continue to express incorrect viewpoints.

“When you see moments of intolerance, speak out,” said Alex Maza, a multicultural student delegate for Undergraduate Student Senate and vice president of STARS.

Loren Lybarger, professor of Classics and World Religions agreed saying: “Silence enables racist discourse to continue.”

For more information: http://newsok.com/islamophobia-panel-promotes-understanding-tolerance/article/211308#ixzz14y8f5UUf

Zeinab Asfour