A Muslim graduate student came into our class this week and discussed her Islamic faith, beliefs and practices. Many Americans have misconceptions of Islam and associate it with terrorism or violence, which is far from the reality of the religion. Islam is actually a very peaceful religion that does not impose on the people who choose not to practice it. Much of these misconceptions come from the media coverage by most news outlets. Whenever you turn on your television, ISIS is often being covered for its recent acts of terrorism or threats. ISIS is in no way affiliated with true Islamic beliefs. It is very important that people take the time to do their research and hear firsthand experiences from those who practice Islamic faith rather than maintaining ignorance and believing the negative connotation delivered by the media.

The religion has restrictions and I find it interesting that some people who identify as Muslim do not follow all the rules taught by the Quran or that they practice through their own personal interpretations. Some Muslims strictly follow the text and others loosely base their beliefs from it. Some women cover themselves, while others choose not to or believe they do not have to. Some Muslims drink and some choose not to participate in a lifestyle that includes alcohol consumption. There is a vast range and diversity of people who follow Islam, yet much of the public tends to have one sole image or idea of how they believe these people to be.

It is a shame how uncomfortable and self-righteous people become when they are exposed to unfamiliar experiences. This is especially true when the differences can be visibly seen, such as involving a way of dressing. Because our women expose skin, many automatically assume that some middle-eastern women are oppressed when in reality they most likely have no desire to express themselves in a revealing manner. If a Muslim is praying in public and doing one of their five daily prayers out in open view, some may become suspicious of their intentions and are fearful because they are not knowledgeable of their rituals of faith. It is easy to reject a less dominant culture or group of people and nurture a stigma surrounding beliefs other than our own. It is s simple to think that our perspectives and practices are superior to those that are less common or controversial.

I find it funny how Middle Eastern music does not promote sexual profanity or obscene lyricism, yet in America, our music industry thrives off of these aspects. Artists like Lupe Fiasco, who is Muslim, have peaceful, thoughtful messages in their music. If anything, American music and American culture is the one that feeds hate, objectification and harmful themes to its people. We have to stay educated and gain a new perception of where we stand in regards to others. We have to question what we know and understand why we feel particular ways to certain human groups to make sure our viewpoints were not force fed to us by popular belief.