Stand Up

Muslims are increasingly the subject of hateful speech and actions in schools, workplaces and public spaces. Hostile situations typically involve three roles: the perpetrator, the target, and the bystander.
Being the target of hostility is traumatic. "The bystander effect" names the additional trauma incurred when hostility is ignored, minimized or denied by others who know or should know. Many targeted by abuse say the silence of bystanders is more disheartening than the hostility itself. We are committed to deepening our capacity to see and respond when hatred and intolerance are visited on anyone in our community.

Interrupt bias
When hateful conversation proceeds unchecked it begins to seem normal While it can be uncomfortable to speak up, even a small action can make a difference.
  • Prepare a short phrase like "That makes me uncomfortable" or "I'd prefer to talk about something else." You don't have to engage in an argument; just indicate you disagree without escalating the conversation
  • Use the Twelve Quick Facts About Islam to counter misinformation in a conversation.
  • Click on the cartoon below for Parisian artist Maeril's advice for responding to harassment. If you don't see a cartoon (it doesn't always show up on mobile devices) click here to find it. No method is foolproof, but this strategy comes recommended by people with long experience in de-escalating conflict.

Help Others Learn More
  • Take the initiative to request a speaker for your parish. Your adult education coordinator or social justice committee, if you have one, are a great place to start. In Minnesota we recommend the Islamic Resource Group, or you can contact us. Helping others find good information is one of the best first steps we can take.
  • If you are a parent of school-age children, ask your school administration to provide training on Islam and Islamophobia for teachers. Bullying in schools is an increasing problem, and teachers are hampered in effective intervention if they are uninformed or misinformed about Islam.  Click here for a sample letter to a school administrator. Scheduling a parent information session at the same time will greatly enhance the power of this moment.
  • Request an information session on Islam and Muslims at your workplace. This is clearly a diversity issue and deserving of the same attention afforded other groups. It's probably not enough just to get a speaker or video on board.  A major Midwest corporation invited a speaker to their enormous corporate headquarters - and eight people showed up to listen. Not to be deterred, they scheduled second session and promoted it vigorously. Getting the word out and inviting colleagues personally will substantially increase your chances of success.
  • Hand out brochures or cards of individuals or organizations that speak on Islam. Encourage others to do the same. In Minnesota, the Islamic Resource Group at www.irgmn.org is a wonderful resource, or you can contact us at sfrcmn@yahoo.com.
  • The Archdiocese of Chicago developed a collection of bulletin inserts to be used by parishes interested in educating their community.  Click here to learn more.

Endorse a Statement of Solidarity
In the face of increasingly negative public conversation, Christians need to make our support for Muslims clear and explicit. A public statement of solidarity by parishes, schools  or even workplaces can help tip the balance toward reconciliation. The process of deciding to declare solidarity is also likely to generate opportunities for education and new relationships - if it is handled positively and proactively. Click for more information and a sample statement of solidarity here

Bear Witness
  • Sometimes all we can offer is silent witness - to be a compassionate presence, willing to stand with our brothers and sisters and acknowledge hatred for what it is. This stance requires actual presence - it can't be done by watching a news video. We all know the relief in a tense situation of knowing that someone else in the room "gets it," even if they don't do anything. We can bear silent witness when we move closer to rather than farther away from someone being harassed on public transportation, or offer a warm smile to a colleague at work.
  • We bear witness when we listen to another's story and allow ourselves to feel the discomfort of being present and the pain they have experienced.
  • We bear witness when we speak up and name events and systems that perpetuate the marginalization of others.

Take Political Action
Sometimes we are called on to take more public action to bring about change.
  • Peaceful demonstrations in support of neighborhood mosques have changed public opinion
  • Attend caucuses and take other political action to promote leaders and political strategies that heal rather than divide.
  • Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper or Catholic news media
  • Advocate for prayer accommodations for Muslims in your workplace