Combatting Islamophobia
June 16, 2021
Dear friends of APF,
Last week, four members of the Afzaal family in Canada died in a hate crime. Another family member, a 9-year old boy remains hospitalized with critical injuries. We keep the victims of this tragedy in our thoughts and wish for a speedy recovery for the young child who has a long path of healing ahead of him.
The Afzaal family came to Canada as immigrants from Pakistan. They grew their family, made new friends, and gave back to their new home just like so many of us who have made similar migrations. We all know the bittersweet sacrifice, learning, and growth that comes with such experiences.
This hate crime, like so many before inflicted on communities of all backgrounds, reminds us of how indiscriminate prejudice is. It provides an opening to learn and talk more about the various prejudices we all endure, as well as those we might perpetuate.
In addition to the many North American organizations dedicated to dismantling Islamophobia, below are some good resources to explore practical approaches to dealing with Islamophobia.
Learning for Justice: Countering Islamophobia
Islamophobia Studies Center: University of California, Berkeley
Institute for Social Policy & Understanding: A Comprehensive Guide
Finally, I hope you will reach out to me if you are interested in dismantling prejudice both towards our communities and within them. So much important work remains to be done to empower our communities to thrive in all aspects of American life, and we need good partners such as yourself to get it done.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Shamila N. Chaudhary
President, American Pakistan Foundation