Wednesday 06-11-2024 - 15:01

For each week of Islamophobia Awareness Month, The Union are shining a spotlight on those in the community. We're asking them to tell us a little bit about themselves and what the month means to them. This week, we've spoken to Ibtihaj.

 

---

 

Tell us about yourself

My name is Ibtihaj, a Muslim from Ghana and currently a BAME Ambassador. Growing up, I didn’t didn’t fully realize the extent of Islamophobia until I moved to the UK, where I encountered first hand the misunderstandings and stereotypes many have about Islam and Muslims.

As a BAME Ambassador, I’m dedicated to creating a more inclusive environment where Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic students feel seen, valued, and supported.

Islamophobia Awareness Month holds personal significance for me, as it’s a time to foster understanding, dispel misconceptions, and work toward a community built on respect and empathy.

 

What does Islamophobia Awareness Month mean to you?

To me, Islamophobia Awareness Month is an opportunity to educate, connect, and foster understanding within our communities.

It’s a time dedicated to breaking down stereotypes and addressing the misconceptions that fuel Islamophobia.

Through open dialogue and awareness, we can replace fear and prejudice with knowledge and empathy.

 

How has your faith shaped your identity and helped you navigate through difficult times?

Islam has instilled in me the importance of patience and trust in Allah's plan for my life, guiding me to find peace even during challenging times.

It's taught me compassion and tolerance, reminding me to treat everyone with respect and kindness, as though they were my own brothers and sisters.

My faith has shaped my identity by encouraging resilience, empathy, and a strong moral foundation, helping me to approach each situation with a sense of purpose and a deep connection to my beliefs.

 

What do you think are the biggest misconceptions about Islam that you’d like to address?

One of the biggest misconceptions about Islam is the belief that it oppresses women or forces them into specific roles, which is simply not true. Like many religions, there can be individuals who misinterpret teachings from the Quran to fit their personal or cultural views, but this doesn’t represent Islam.

In reality, Islam was the first religion to grant women property, financial, and marriage rights, long before other societies did. For example, Khadijah (RA), the wife of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), was a successful businesswoman, and he worked for her—a clear example of respect and equality in Islam.

Muslim women who wear the hijab and choose to dress modestly do so as an expression of their faith, not due to oppression. In fact, any Muslim who genuinely follows the Quran’s teachings would never oppress or force another person, as Islam advocates for respect and compassion.

 

What message would you like to share with those who may not be familiar with Islam?

I would encourage anyone unfamiliar with Islam to explore it with an open heart and mind. Islam is rooted in principles of peace, compassion, and respect for all of humanity.

At its core, it’s a faith that emphasizes kindness, humility, and personal accountability, guiding believers to live meaningful, ethical lives. Islam teaches that every individual has a direct connection with Allah, fostering a personal journey of faith, self-improvement, and gratitude.

I hope people see beyond stereotypes and recognize Islam’s beauty in its universal values, which aim to unite rather than divide.