Room:

Muslim Peace Fellowship

Description of Panel: Islamophobia, or fear-mongering based on anti-Muslim hate, is a prevailing characteristic of American culture. Its impact is devastating as significant portions of the public are moved to embrace a fascist world rather than strive to achieve a just, tolerant, and pluralistic society. Domestically, the rise of Islamophobia has resulted in the creation of a condoned underclass, surge of violent crimes against Muslims and those mistaken as Muslims, and an overwhelming lack of public support for the resettlement of refugees. Internationally, it manifests as a foreign policy that rationalizes a “War on Terror”, has led to the annihilation of millions of Muslims, and mounting refugee crisis of unfathomable proportions. This workshop looks at the domestic and foreign policy effects of Islamophobia, and what is necessary to reverse them.

Susan Smith, Community Liaison, Muslim Peace Fellowship