ISSN 2736-1608
International Journal of Law and Legal Studies ISSN 2736-1608 Vol. 12 (3), pp. 001-008, March, 2024. Available online at www.internationalscholarsjournals.org © International Scholars Journals
Review
The impact of anti-Muslim sentiment on Muslim immigrants and their advocates
Thomas W. Donovan
American University, J. D. New York Law School, Thomas W., Donovan is managing partner of the Iraq Law Alliance, PLLC and is based in Baghdad, Iraq. E-mail: [email protected]. Tel: +964 (0)771.358.6705.
Accepted 18 January, 2024
Abstract
The so-called “war on terrorism” that the United States has declared as a response to the 9/11 tragedy has affected Muslim-Americans, perhaps more than any other group. Many of these people are victims of what may be called “islamaphobia” the fear or suspicion of Muslims or those who appear to be of middle-eastern origin. As a result, many Muslims avoid disclosing their heritage, isolate themselves from non-Muslims, and give up pursuing many of the opportunities that are available to immigrants of other cultures. In the resulting self-segregation and isolation, many are vulnerable to victimization and exposed to anti-western indoctrination. In the current climate of suspicion Muslims have less access to helping professionals including social workers, lawyers, and immigrants rights specialists. Advocates, in turn, find that their efforts to help are thwarted by their clients’ understandable apprehension and suspicion. This article offers some suggestions about how advocates might overcome these challenges and provides better services for those in need.
Key words: Islamaphobia, immigrant, Islam, Muslim, immigration law, legal and xenophobia.