Many would agree that the world is a dark place, and that statement today is more accurate than ever. The world has come to a point in time where a mass shooting occurs every day, according to the "New York Times." The world has become a place where even the innocent become victims.
Many people fall into to the category of innocent victims, and part of them are Muslim. Ever since the 9/11 attacks, from the tragedy of Paris to the misunderstanding of Ahmed’s alarm clock, Muslims have become another target for violence. It is as if the incidents sparked a new attitude of negativity, a new attitude of doubt. This is not to justify the actions of terrorists, but to realize that not all the people in a mosque are planning an attack, that not all Muslims are terrorists.
Muslim youth is often hit hard with the harsh reality of judgement. Many Muslim-American teenagers have become more stressed and self conscious. Like some others who follow a religion, these teenagers have let their faith become a part of their identity. Unfortunately, something they hold close to their hearts has become a flaw in the eyes of others.
This general concept is similar to bullying, which causes depression, anxiety and decreased academic achievement, according to StopBullying.gov. It even has the power to take away a life. Harassment and bullying takes many forms, and the Muslim youth have plenty of experience with racism.
The feelings of suspicion from their peers and the general public can get inside the minds of young Muslim Americans. While they try to live their lives normally, they cannot ignore the negativity that resides in the back of their minds. It is suffocating to be in a place where everyone is watching, where everyone has their own doubts.
This constant pressure and worry drives Muslim teenagers to a corner with only two options: letting the negativity get the best of them or using the negativity to promote positivity. This is a time for them to promote the peace and love that Islam can bring. Yes, it will be difficult, but people need to believe in the goodness of others.
Many of the Muslim youth were born into a Muslim family and have adapted to the culture and ways of Islam, like going to mosque or celebrating Ramadan with their friends and family. They know how beautiful Islam can be.
Islam preaches peace and harmony, just like other religions. The Quran, the Islamic holy book, says to never impose Islam on others (Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 256). The religion also focuses on the actions and sayings of Prophet Mohammad. They try their best to integrate his honesty and integrity into their own lives. One of the Five Pillars of Islam says that Muslims must give to charity. Islam is all about peace.
To save the sanity of the 1.6 billion Muslims in the world, it is time that the next generation stands up to teach others about Islam. Apathy and ignorance towards Islam will not help. Awareness is the key to change, and the time for change is now.
