Institutionalized Islamophobia Is A Threat To Democracy

American Muslims for Palestine (AMP) condemns President Donald Trump’s Islamophobic attacks against Democratic Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed and Minnesota Congresswoman Ilhan Omar. A few days ago, Trump referred to El-Sayed as "Muhammed" and a “jihadist.” He also attacked Rep. Omar and stated she “comes from a country without laws.” On that same day, her home was raided by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), in what is now being described as an attempt by the administration to denaturalize and deport Congresswoman Omar despite being a naturalized citizen for nearly 30 years now.

These attacks are part of an increasingly disturbing pattern of Islamophobia that has intensified since Trump’s return to office. From political advertisements invoking the trauma of 9/11 to demonize Muslim candidates, to the normalization of anti-Muslim rhetoric in our political discourse, Islamophobia is being weaponized to sow fear and division as well as undermine the political participation of Muslim Americans.

We unequivocally stand in solidarity with Ilhan Omar, Abdul El-Sayed, and others attacked by this administration. The vilification of Muslims, the weaponization of our identities, and the deliberate mockery of the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) name are repugnant and should not be accepted by anyone. 

Muslim leaders - let alone anyone else - should not be subjected to this cruel dehumanization by any administration. This dangerous rhetoric cannot be dismissed as mere political theatre, as it has real consequences for Muslim communities across the country, and those who perpetuate it must be held accountable.

Regardless of what Trump thinks, Muslims have a right to be politically engaged. No one's race or religion should be used as a tool to alienate them from participating in our so-called democracy.