CE: Growing Up Muslim

       Since the attack on 9/11 the lives of Muslim Americans has changed significantly. Many Muslims experience various forms of discrimination everyday. The events of September 11 have given stereotypes to Muslims as terrorists and because of this they are treated unjust and unfair. Whether they are applying for jobs, of going to school, of shopping, I have seen and heard it all. They are discriminated against just because of their appearance, who they are and what they believe in. Years ago I heard of an incident in school where a Muslim student was forced to take of her head scarf. Many Muslims from time to time are under surveillance and suspicion just because of their religious beliefs. Not all people are the same, so why are innocent people being judged on the malicious actions of others. It is awful to hear that people are still being openly discriminated against, even after all the United States has gone through, from Emancipation Proclamation, to March and Selma, Women's Suffrage, and even presently Gay rights.
      However, it is great to hear that someone has taken these negative situations and turned it into something constructive. This young girl has chosen to make the best of the situations. She takes her surroundings as a learning experience. Growing up being judged against by others has taught her how to listen. This has taught her how to take other people's thoughts into consideration, something she admitted she might not have done if she had not experienced prejudice for herself. I like this story because it is unique, it's not just a story about a person talking about how they are subject to discrimination, it is a story about the growth these situations have given them.