Recent events create stereotypes

Ignorance

/ˈiɡnərəns/

Lacking knowledge and understanding; the condition of being uninformed

The ignorance of some Americans in this nation today is pathetic.

Last week’s Philadelphia shooting of a police officer by a man of the Islamic faith has again brought up the topic of the threat of Muslims in society today. Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney spoke in reference to citizens viewing the shooting saying that, “Islam or the teaching of Islam has nothing to do with what you saw on the screen.”  

As I saw people’s thoughts on the shooting my jaw dropped. I read post after post of hate. Many comments accused Kenney of being a coward, saying that Muslims throughout America and their religion have everything to do with attacks such as the one last week.These accusers cannot seem to get it through their heads and understand that not everyone that is Muslim or of a Middle Eastern background is a threat to this country. Just because a girl is wearing a hijab does not mean she wants to cause anyone harm. A Muslim boy with a name often stumbled over should not be harassed for it.

The ignorance and stereotypical nature of so many in today’s country has made the lives of many Muslims miserable in every way possible. I have read stories of children beating up an innocent Muslim boy. I have seen reports of Muslim women being attacked just for simply walking to pick up her child from school. I hear of a Muslim man being attacked and gravely injured by police officers just because he looked “suspicious.” These violent acts are sickening to hear about.

It is understandable that some individuals react badly to Muslims out of fear. The attacks such as that of 9/11 personally affected my family and were indescribably brutal. Though this event devastated our country, it has to be understood that not all Muslims are that despicable. The actions of few should not have the power to sum up the character of many.

This country has come to a point where they physically and emotionally torment Muslims and our people who are of Middle Eastern descent. People should not be manipulated into being ashamed of who they are or where they come from. If they please, they should be able to show pride in who they are. Americans across the country need to see past the veil of ignorance they have placed before themselves they must  learn to love regardless and look past the stereotypes they have created.