Islamophilia: Challenging Prejudice and Promoting Mutual Understanding

• In Event: Evening Extravaganza: Taste of Brussels Reception, Author Meet & Greet, Lifetime Achievement Awardee and Keynote Meet & Greet, & Hosted Poster Session
  In Poster: Leadership Development Display Posters

Short Description

When Imam Taha Hassane joined the Islamic Center of San Diego, he recognized a necessity to educate non-Muslim fellow citizens about Islam. He successfully developed an internal and external vision to challenge Islamophobia.

Detailed Abstract

Muslims across the United States are experiencing an unprecedented increase in discrimination and violence due to a growing fear and hatred towards Islam and Muslims. Many educators have labeled this anti-Islamic phenomenon as “Islamophobia”. Several studies have addressed the existence of “Islamophobia” and discussed its impact on the Muslim community and society at-large. However, few studies focus on helping Muslims transcend their mindset and believe in their ability to challenge prejudice and promote mutual understanding. The research attempted to fill that gap by first looking at the impact of contact relations and education in reducing Islamophobia and then considering the role of the Imams in that process.
The study surveyed 189 people who visited the Islamic Center of San Diego to evaluate the effectiveness of its educational and outreach program. More than ninety percent of the participants in the survey indicate that following their visit, their stereotype changed, and that they gained a balanced view about Islam. Ninety-nine percent of the participants find the presentation very interesting and more than ninety-three percent indicate that observing the prayer and touring the Mosque were effective.
The study indicates that contact and education decrease prejudice and shows the effectiveness of the educational program provided at the center.
My intent in this study is to provide a map that serves as a clear evidence that Islamophilia is attainable. Muslims have the ability to challenge prejudice, enhance and raise global consciousness and awareness about the Islamic beliefs and principles that are based on the values of acceptance, tolerance, peace and respect for other religious beliefs.
Analyzing Imam Taha's leadership model, three tools were observed by the leader to challenge prejudice and build mutual understanding and respect: Understand, Learn and Engage.

Participant

• Allali Lallia, Islamic Center of San Diego