By Arturo Brooks |Staff Writer| At the "Who Are the Refugees" forum held last week, non-factual messages were presented, hidden under the emotional overtone. CSUSB’s Center for Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies hosted this forum to educate on the crisis and hardships that refugees face. However, I don't think this intention was accomplished. I personally attended this forum to see what would be presented to my fellow peers. Facts were discussed, as well as some controversial topics that peaked my interest. The information forced me to ask myself if it was factual or if this was a “sympathy forum,” and I began to question the panelists' credibility. The recorded opinions are … [Read more...] about OPINION: Debunking ‘Who Are the Refugees’
Muslims
Who Are the Refugees?
By Noe Ramos |Staff Writer| Students, faculty, and community members gathered to discuss "Who Are the Refugees?", a panel event focused on bringing awareness and attention to the refugee crisis. The event took place in the College of Education on Feb. 21 and was hosted by the Center of Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies and sponsored by the University Diversity Committee, the Department of Communication Studies, the Mediterranean Studies Academy, and the Muslim Students Association. The key points discussed in the panel were who were the refugees, why do they come here, what are some of the challenges that they face, and how do they come the United States. The three guest … [Read more...] about Who Are the Refugees?
Professors talk Islamophobia
By Josh Adamson |Staff Writer| Suspicion towards Islam and anti-Muslim hate crimes are increasing across the US. Such actions were recently seen in the arrest of three men who allegedly planned to use a weapon of mass destruction to target Somali immigrants in western Kansas. “Social surveys indicate we are experiencing the highest level of anti-Muslim prejudice in recent history, with Muslims representing the most disdained religious faith in the United States,” stated Brian Levin, director of the CSUSB Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism. Hate crimes against Muslims rose by 89 percent in 2015, according to an article by Levin in The Huffington Post. Levin anticipates … [Read more...] about Professors talk Islamophobia
MSA hosts Islamic Awareness week
By Melissa Gilbert |Staff Writer| The Muslim Students’ Association (MSA) organized Islamic Awareness Week May 6-8. Manal Museitef, president of the MSA explained, “This week was organized for students to learn more about Islam since there are a lot of misconceptions here in the United States.” The first lecture was given by UCLA alumnus Abdallah Jadallah. He provided information about the roles of Moses and Jesus in Islam. Jadallah explained some of the similarities shared by Judaism, Christianity and Islam through the two prophets. The tone of the lecture was friendly and inclusive. Jadallah welcomed questions, and was not afraid to admit that as a Muslim, it is OK to answer a … [Read more...] about MSA hosts Islamic Awareness week