In light of recent events internationally, nationally and locally, there is much fear and distrust of Muslim people. Unfortunately, instead of reaching out to learn and build relationships, many people have chosen to make hateful, ignorant statements directed at Muslim people, which is fueling Islamophobia across the country. And although it may not make the news, Islamophobia is present in our own community. This rhetoric has real consequences, as the New York Times recently reported that hate crimes against Muslim Americans in the U. S. have tripled.
 
There will always be those, regardless of religion or background, who are willing to use violence to further their agendas. We must be mindful of real threats and always take them seriously, but our response will be our community's most powerful recourse. Anti-Muslim sentiment is the kindling used to fuel further hateful behavior - and seemingly benign things, like stares or whispers, can easily escalate into harassment or threats.
 
As an organization dedicated to empowerment and the elimination of racism, the YWCA Greater Harrisburg stands in solidarity with our Muslim neighbors and friends. We believe that empowerment of marginalized individuals is a much more effective tool to defeat those who want to cause harm. By engaging with our Muslim neighbors we are effectively countering hate and intolerance - we create allies not enemies and inspire hope for a future of safety and acceptance of all people, all races and all religions.
 
We urge you to stand in solidarity with our local Muslim communities by taking these 10 practical steps:
  1. Smile and be friendly. Muslims experience daily stares, whispers, harsh words and distrust in public places, so a smile and a friendly word can go a long way to helping them feel safe and welcome.
  2. Be an ally. As a bystander, intervene if you see someone being mistreated. Stand up, speak up and offer support - and afterwards be sure to report it to the PA Human Relations Commission (PHRC).
  3. Educate your family, co-workers and friends. Don't let ignorant, hateful comments slide - even on social media! Click Here to End Hate provides guidance on counteracting anti-Muslim bigotry online.
  4. Talk with your children about the importance of standing up for Muslim classmates who are being bullied at school.
  5. Write a letter/card of support to local mosques. Have your children include "glad you're our neighbor" cards addressed to the Muslim children at the mosques.
  6. Write an op-ed or letter to the editor. We need many voices speaking out in solidarity with our Muslim neighbors and friends. PennLive's guidelines for submission are here.
  7. Visit a Masjid, a mosque, to learn about Muslim faith and practice and build relationships. Explore opportunities to fellowship together or work together on a community project.
  8. Show your support by hanging a banner or sign at your home, workplace, community center or place of worship. "I (Heart) My Muslim Neighbor" yard signs will soon be available through Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ) here, with all proceeds going to the Arab American Association of NY.
  9. Volunteer to go shopping with Muslim women. Women especially are being targeted in public places, so consider volunteering to accompany a Muslim woman to do her shopping.
  10. Host an educational forum. Getting accurate information to people is so important, so consider hosting an educational forum in your home, workplace, community center or place of worship.
The YWCA works closely with both the Islamic Society of Greater Harrisburg and the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Harrisburg. If you would like to reach to show your support, schedule a visit, learn more or partner with them, you may contact the following individuals who are members of each mosque:
 
Samia Malik                                            Saima Mumtaz
Islamic Society of Greater Harrisburg      Ahmadiyya Muslim Community
407 N Front St, Steelton, PA 17113        245 Division St, Harrisburg, PA 17110
E-mail: samalik1@aol.com                      E-mail: mamesaab@yahoo.com
Phone: (717) 732-3330                            Phone: (717) 583-0235
 
An additional resource is the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR), the foremost civil rights organization for American Muslims, which has launched a campaign to counteract Islamophobia.
 
Finally, to learn more join us at the Diversity Forum on Islamophobia on Thursday, January 21st at 8:00 AM at Hamilton Health Center (110 S. 17th St, Harrisburg). Guest speaker Samia Malik will address myths about Muslims, share facts about Muslim belief and practice, answer questions and provide practical steps to support local Muslim communities. Registration is now open on the YWCA's website!
 
Add to Fresh@YW: 
 
glqxz9283 sfy39587stf02 mnesdcuix8