Fear of the Unknown
Ever since the horrific bombing of the World Trade Center on September 11th, 2001. The United States of America and its citizens have increasingly grown doubtful and fearful of their surroundings. Due to these detrimental circumstances, society has shaped, stereotyped, and limited any individuals that appear to identify with the Middle Eastern ethnicity, as “terrorists.” Ultimately, the horrendous actions of a select few have lead to increased surveillance and security of many Middle Eastern people. Overall, I understand that there are extremist groups who wish to sabotage the prosperity of the U.S. and its people. But, their actions alone should not be able to justify harassment and abuse onto millions of people.
It is without question that we as a nation has grown more fearful and therefore must be more cautious and watchful for those seeking to attack us. Our increased security in international travel is definite, nonetheless if screening processes increase they must be increased for each and every individual. The very foundation of our nation seeks to provide “equality for all” and yet we are contradicting this very promise if we further restrict the Middle Eastern people simply due to their appearance. With time, our society has grown more aware and understanding of the unknown. Nonetheless, the attitude of racism and pessimism still persist in society today. This can be seen in particular in Daniel Hernandez’s article in the Los Angeles Times, titled ‘Terrorist Chic’ and Beyond. In the article Hernandez writes about specific individuals that actively wear terrorist chic like the Kaffiyeh. The Kaffiyeh, can be most simply explained as a cotton headdress worn for centuries by the Middle Eastern people. It is a part of their culture and existed far before the bombing of the World Trade Center. Yet, this iconic accessory that is part of a rich heritage and culture, has become synonymous with terrorism. Ultimately this is both immoral and allows for ongoing racist ideals to persist in society. Furthermore, this issue is even more prevalent with recent election results, voting Donald Trump into office as president. Throughout his campaign, Trump’s promises to “Make America, Great Again” has consisted of various prejudices. With such a strong spoken individual as our Commander in Chief, I am concerned that we are now a target more than ever. FBI Director James Comey, stated that “There will be a terrorist diaspora sometime in the next two to five years like we’ve never seen before.” There is a growing number of Syrian refugees due to the ongoing Syrian revolution. It is our duty offer a helping hand to those in need. However, I do recognize Comey’s concern for a potential growth in Terrorist Diaspora. This main concern is derived from our inability to properly screen each refugee. We do not have access to their records in Syria therefore, our judgement of each potential refugee. The article further explains that the process that was supposed to take anywhere between 18–24 months has been shortened to just 3. Due to our limited resources, this process will only lead to further discrimination and racism based solely on appearance.
Our vast nation consists of various diaspora communities, its is this very aspect of our nation which makes us so very special and unique. This vast melting pot that is our nation contributes to an extensive range of perspectives and way of life. It is this diverse diaspora of different peoples that are able to bring something different to the table. The opportunities available in this nation should and can not discriminate against race. We can merely evaluate individuals based on their ability to perform a given task. This current situation with Syrian refugees, puts the nation at a difficult crossroads with doing what is right and protecting the nations own prosperity.
