It seems like every day you’re checking socials, and another hate crime has happened towards Muslims. Seeing this content online or in person can be very scary and can lead to feelings of uncertainty when it comes to openly practising your religion. You might want to not pray in public for fear of what might happen, or you might not feel safe wearing your hijab or niqab. These feelings are completely valid, and may Allah reward you for your struggles. Unfortunately, as Muslims, we need to take some precautions to stay safe, and here’s how you can do that.
What is Islamophobia?
Islamophobia is the hatred of Muslims that manifests in the form of discrimination or violence targeted towards Muslims. Islamophobia can look like harassment, abuse, verbal abuse, threats, and can sometimes be more subtle, like not being allowed to pray at work or school.
What is Islamophobia Awareness Month?
IAM is a month-long campaign that multiple Muslim organisations in the UK founded to bring awareness to the discrimination faced by Muslims. This campaign takes place every November, and many Muslim organisations participate in highlighting the significant contributions Muslims make to society. As part of building our identity as Muslims, we encourage you to explore our Essentials course and to listen to our podcast series for further advice.
This month is a great way to change the misrepresentation of Muslims online and in person. Anyone can take part in this campaign by sharing a positive experience with Muslims, standing up for injustice when you see it and helping each other, no matter the religion. Whilst this month is great for bringing awareness to this issue, it unfortunately won’t stop the discrimination overnight. Because of this, here are some practical tips for staying safe.
Practical Safety Tips
Constant Communication
If you're going out alone as a Muslim, make sure it's not at night or in a dangerous area. Make sure you let your family or friends know where you are. You can send someone you trust your location, or constantly have it on for friends and family to see. If you suspect that someone might be following you or you have a gut feeling that something's not right, call anyone. That can be a friend, family member, classmate, or coworker. This makes you less likely to be a target if it appears as though you are not alone.
Avoid Distractions
It's so easy to be listening to something whilst you're out or be scrolling on your phone whilst you walk. This can sometimes make you an easy target. Put your phone away whilst you walk and be aware of your surroundings. If you must wear your earphones, make sure the volume is on low so that your guard is not lowered.
Know your rights and protect yourself
Any form of discrimination is illegal and should be addressed accordingly. Fortunately and unfortunately, since we need it, there are many supports in place should anything happen to you.
Prayer and Dua
The most important tip of all, don’t forget to make dua. Allah sees our struggles and rewards our efforts. Doing your morning and night remembrances ensures you are protected. Here are some additional duas you can incorporate daily.
أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّةِ مِنْ كُلِّ شَيْطَانٍ وَهَامَّةٍ وَمِنْ كُلِّ عَيْنٍ لَامَّةٍ
“A’udhu bi kalimatillahi al-tammati min kulli shaytaanin wa hammatin wa min kulli aynin lammah”
[Al-Bukhari 4/119]
أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّاتِ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا خَلَقَ
“A’udhu bikalimat-illahit-tammati min sharri ma khalaq”
[Muslim 4/2075]