The Heat discusses ‘Islamophobia’

The Heat

There have been incidences where anti-Muslim or anti-Islam sentiments were expressed in violent ways in the U.S. and elsewhere. Recent events have The Heat looking at how these events could mean a series of feelings and sentiments coined ‘Islamophobia’ is a valid concern.

Three young Muslims were killed in North Carolina in what police say was a dispute over parking, but the incident is now being investigated as a possible hate crime.

That same week, there was an arson attack on an Islamic community center in Houston, Texas.

A 2011 report by the Center for American Progress found that there is an Islamophobia network spreading misinformation and hateful propaganda within the U-S about Muslims and Islam.

In Europe, Muslim advocacy groups report a rise in Islamophobia. They also report an increase in attacks on mosques and on Muslims following the deadly shooting at French satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo, where two Islamist gunmen opened fire.

What is the situation like for ordinary Muslims facing Islamophobia? What’s the role of the media in all this? Why is religion being conflated with terrorism? The Heat discusses Islamophobia and the Muslim community.

The Heat continued its discussion with former Pakistani ambassador who has spent much of his time in Europe talking with Muslim youths and religious leaders.

  • Ambassador Akbar Ahmed is the former Pakistani ambassador to the U.K. and Ireland.