How to Talk to Young Kids about Islamophobia

By Laura El Alam

As a parent of young children, I wish I never had to talk to my kids about Islamophobia. If only it didn’t exist, and that I didn’t have to taint their innocence with such an unpleasant and possibly frightening topic! Unfortunately, my kids (and yours) are likely to face Islamophobia at some point, whether we discuss it with them or not. And, by the look of recent statistics, instances of bias, harassment, and even violence have increased as the atrocities in Palestine continue. Here are some tips to help you prompt conversations with your children to keep them safe.

 

 Parenting Tip

All of us are impacted by Islamophobia. Stereotyping and negative attitudes toward Muslims are not new, but at times and under certain conditions, the problems increase. Learn more about what to do to keep yourself and your children safe.

 

When Islamophobia and Racism Intersect

By Candace Islaah Abd'al-Rahim

Islamophobia and racism are two closely related evils. Both are centered around socially-constructed identities. Both involve labeling someone or some group as being different from a main group. Both may involve, to some degree, the use of physical appearance as an identifying factor. Islamophobia, at its most basic level, is discrimination against the Islamic faith and its adherents. Like racism, it can result in prejudice, exclusion, discrimination, and acts of violence. Learn more about the intersection of the root cause of both - white supremacy.

 

Inspiration

 

“Muslims – especially ones who are “visibly Muslim” in their way of dressing – frequently experience microaggressions. Islamophobia comes in many forms, and one of the most common is negative messages meant to ostracize or demean us.”

Laura El Alam, Microagressions: Insignificant or Insidious

 

 

Teaching Muslim Children about the Harms of Bullying

By Umm Ahmed

One-third of global youth are subjected to bullying and the instances of faith-based bullying are much higher for Muslim children. There are many nuances to understanding what constitutes bullying, how to identify red flags that indicate that your child may be a victim (or a bully!), what to do to remedy the matter, and how we all need to take responsibility for changing the culture of bullying around us.

 

Islamic Guidance

The Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, said:

“Whosoever of you sees an evil, let him change it with his hand; and if he is not able to do so, then [let him change it] with his tongue; and if he is not able to do so, then with his heart - and that is the weakest of faith.”

(Sahih Muslim)

 

Responding to Islamophobia with Guidance in Mind

By Umm Ahmed

The Quran and Sunnah teach us to be kind, compassionate, and respectful toward others, regardless of their faith or background. And, although it is true that many Muslims are marginalized when it comes to practicing their beliefs, we need to be mindful that our responses to adversity align with Islamic values. Take note of some action steps that we all can take to counter the impact of Islamophobia at a personal and community level.

 

Alarming Facts

The Council of American Islamic Relations has recently reported a “staggering” increase in complaints of Islamophobia:

  • In the eight weeks covering Oct. 7 to Dec. 2, 2024, CAIR’s national headquarters and chapters received a total of 2,171 requests for help and reports of bias, which is a 172% increase over a similar two-month period the previous year. 
  • In an average 57-day period in 2022, CAIR received 798 complaints.

For more details, check out their recent press release CAIR Received ‘Staggering’ 2,171 Complaints Over Past Two Months as Islamophobia, Anti-Palestinian Hate 'Spin Out of Control'

 

Book Review: Nusaiba and the 5th Grade Bullies

By Miriam Mohamed

Nusaiba and the 5th Grade Bullies by Asma Hussein is an exciting and engaging book about the challenges of Islamophobia and bullying; the importance of self-acceptance, confidence, standing up for one’s self, harnessing our imagination; and to focus on what matters most in life. Opening up books can be a creative way for parents to open the door to important conversations about bullying. We think this one is an excellent choice.

 

Online Resources

Muslim Students Facing Harassment Due to Anti-Palestinian Bias in Schools - Recent atrocities in Palestine have dramatically increased instances of Islamophobia for Muslim students in public schools.

15 Ways to Fight Islamophobia - This article prompts collective action from every one of us to fight Islamophobia. 

Islamophobia: A Historic Timeline - This article is a poignant reminder that Islamophobia is as old as Islam itself. Even Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, dealt with his share of Islamophobic attacks.

UN Declares March 15 International Day to Combat Islamophobia - In recognition of the increasing instances of Islamophobia worldwide, in 2023, the United Nations took assertive action to focus attention on the problem and how to stop it.

 

Adam's World Video: Adam Stands Up to the Bully

Adam finds out that two of his friends are being cyberbullied. He stands up to say enough and learns that Allah supports our efforts to race together for all that is good. The Arabic letter “khaa” for khair and the English letter “G” for good are featured. A poignant nasheed by Dawud Wharnsby called “Virus We Call Bullying” complements the lesson. (9:19)

 

Sound Vision has BIG plans for your children this Ramadan! 

And Muslim Home subscribers get a  discount!

During the entire month of Ramadan, creative hosts will engage students with games, stories, songs, art and movement activities, cooking demonstrations, and more! Keep your children busy and inspired to learn to love Allah and be proud to follow His guidance. 

Our 2024 Race4Rewards online children’s classes will target two different age groups:

Adam’s World Club classes are designed for children ages 4-7. 

Colors of Islam Club classes are designed children ages 8-12. 

Visit Academy.AdamsWorld.org for more details and to register online.  Muslim Home subscribers can use coupon code MuslimHome15 for a 15% discount! Note that classes will fill up fast!

 

Check out a wide variety of courses that teach your children about Islam in a fun and engaging way!

 
 
 

The Sound Vision Foundation has been a trusted source of Islamic knowledge for more than 30 years. Our work with the world-renowned puppets Adam and Aneesah pioneered creative programming for Muslim children, encouraging them to learn about and love their religion. We continue to bring sound content and engaging programs that stimulate minds, touch hearts, and strive to fulfill our mission of raising better Muslims, better neighbors, and better citizens. This latest effort is designed to support and empower Muslim parents to do the same.

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