Islamophobia--Is It a Problem at CCNY?

Most Muslim students say "no."by Siddiq MohammedOver the past month, you may have heard about the controversy surrounding a show called “All-American Muslims.” It depicts the lives of a few Muslim families living in America, and has been the focus of debate. A Christian group in Florida called the show "a clear and present danger" and Lowe's pulled its ads.This kind of "Islamophobia” is common in the United States and throughout the world. City College has a large Muslim community representing students with Asian, African-American, Middle Eastern and Caucasian backgrounds; is Islamaphobia a problem on our campus?Aber Kawas, a 19-year-old American Muslim, says she doesn't see the problem at CCNY. "As a student I don't feel unlike any other because of my religion," she says. "I still get stressed out during finals week, occasionally hand in that late paper, and wait online to get my caffeine rush by the coffee cart.”Kawas says the Islamic clubs on campus give her a sense of belonging. “I feel the sense of community I experience because of the prominent presence of Muslim clubs on campus," she says. "Being part of the Muslim Student Organization, Women in Islam and Muslim American Psychologists gives me a chance to feel comfortable practicing my religion on campus while making friends and sharing bonds with the students similar to myself faith-wise.”Housam Abdelrahman says he feels support from CCNY towards students of the Islamic faith.  "The admin and professors are for the most part very supportive and understanding when it comes to Islamic values and practices," says.The school has provided a huge club space located in the basement of the Wingate building, enabling students and professors alike to pray their five daily prayers. The students also hold “Islamic Awareness Week” in the spring. This event seeks to educate non-Muslim students about the faith.Says Abdelrahman: ”I feel that there is a great support system within CCNY."