Challenging Islamophobia

Islamophobia has been defined as the "unfounded hostility towards Muslims, and therefore fear or dislike of all or most Muslims."  In a 1991 Runnymede Trust Report, Islamophobes were defined as individuals or groups who hold the following beliefs:

• Islam is monolithic and cannot adapt to new realities
• Islam does not share common values with other major faiths
• Islam, as a religion, is inferior to the West.  It is archaic, barbaric, and irrational.
• Islam is a religion of violence and supports terrorism.
• Islam is a violent political ideology.

Unfortunately, many of the individuals and/or groups who promote such views have extreme religious or political agendas.

To learn more about Islamophobia and Islamophobes, see the following documents and websites:

• Fear Inc.:  The Roots of the Islamophobia Network in America, Center for American Progress
  
• The Southern Poverty Law Center (which tracks hate groups in the United States):  
• LOONWATCH.COM
• Obsession For Hate: An awareness project of Hate Hurts America
• Islamophobia Today