ShareWestern media have used stereotypical images of Muslims to depict them as terrorists and barbarians
The hijab is one of the issues commonly tackled by the Western media. Although Muslim women have not always faced hardship, the matter has now turned into a liberty cause in Western society. This matter is undoubtedly becoming a source of harassment for Muslims in schools, workplaces and public venues, where they serve in public and private establishments. A compromise has been reached in Britain for female officers to verify the identity of female witnesses wearing Niqabs, allowing judicial proceedings to move more swiftly.
In France, there have been many forms of rejection, including school principals refusing to accept female Muslim students. However, French courts have stated that students have some rights on the grounds that they are French citizens. In Germany, hostility towards Muslims comes from Neo-Nazi groups that are already spreading throughout Europe, going so far as framing Muslim immigrants for crimes they commit.
Italy's Prime Minister rejected 'Anti-Hijab' calls, stressing that Mary, mother of prophet Jesus (PBUH), wore a hijab, leading nuns worldwide to wear the garment. The message wearing a hijab conveys, whether in Islam, Christianity, or Judaism, is that a woman rejects harassment, is loyal to her husband or father and that there is no way to gain any form of pleasure from her.
However, Western media have used stereotypical images of Muslims to depict them as terrorists and barbarians who brutally assault women and children. They ignore the fact that all cultures and religions include moderate, radical and extreme people. Linking Islam and Muslims to horrific terrorism is unjust, because Islam is a religion of peace, love and clemency.
By Labeed Abdal
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