I thought maybe we were learning to respect each other more and starting to replace fear of the unfamiliar with understanding. Then I saw that, according to the FBI, last year the number of hate crimes against Muslims was the highest it’s been since 9/11.
And that was pretty much BEFORE the negativity of the recent campaigns and the unrest that is following, I dread the 2016 statistics, almost as much as I’m heartsick about all the innocent lives touched by unjust anti-Muslim sentiment.
A 68-year-old Sikh man was purposely hit by a truck then beaten by two men. A physician and assistant professor of international affairs at Columbia University was beaten by at least a dozen teens and young men. Each year since 9/11, violence against peace-loving Sikhs has increased.
And the reason may very well boil down to beards and headgear, which are part of a devout Sikh man’s appearance.
Many people see the turban on a Sikh man and think he’s Muslim, then jump to the conclusion that all Muslims are responsible for 9/11 and the current terrorism. It’s a double error.
To dispel at least part of this egregious situation, I invite you to learn about the different headgear worn by Sikhs, Muslim religious elders, Afghan Muslims, Iranian Mullahs, Arab Muslim Kaffiyeh, and dessert people and Muslim terrorists.
Take a look. Then spread the word.
Strength and spirit before, during, and since 9/11. We are America!