American Muslims: In Front of the Lens
Photos and Writing by Fadumo Ali
The purpose behind, American Muslims: In Front of the Lens, photo essay is to give an insight into the lives of American Muslims in order for viewers to walk away with a better understanding. The series is means to educate individuals and to provide an insight into the thoughts expressed by a WSU Muslim student.
The concept behind this photo series was inspired by the rise of anti-Muslim rhetoric within the past year, which includes the stabbings of the two Portland men this summer. According to CAIR-WA, Eastern Washington has the highest amount of anti-Muslim hate crimes reported in the Northwest.
"I think the best thing to end anti-Muslim hatred is to go up and speak to a Muslim."
"Social media and the media play a big part in decoding much of these misconceptions."
"It's also amazing how interconnected hijabi Amerians are through social media. It's amazing to be able to all support one another through our common identitiy."
"One of the biggest misconceptions people have towards the Muslim community is that we are all Arab, matter of fact the largest ethnic groups are black and Asian."
"I once read on CNN that 6 out of 10 people never had a conversation with a Muslim. I think that would be an easy solution to solving our issues surroding Islamaphobia."
"As a hijbai people often try to mold us into these sterotypes they've invented. They should just sit back and let us educate them on what we stand for and why we wear the hijab."
"I once heard during a CAIR-WA (Council On Islamic Relations- WAshington) that eastern Washington had one of the highest hate crimes in the NorthWest. What confirmed me coming here was seeing (Elson) Floyd as the President and the Islamic Center. Representation really does make a difference."
" The Portland stabbing over the summer was very devesating to hear about. It really did have an impact on feeling paranoid in public spaces."
"My desire of becoming a doctor deprives from wanting to help others, and it's a desirable career for most Muslims. Most people in America don't know that we make up about 1% of the population, but 10% of doctors in the country."
" I haven't experienced any anti-Muslim hate at WSU, and i'm thankful not much has changed since the elections."