Nearly Half of Muslim College Students in California Report Harassment and Discrimination

A recent survey reveals an alarming reality for Muslim students in California colleges and universities; nearly half have faced harassment or discrimination on campus over the past year. 

The study, which surveyed 720 students across 87 institutions, found that 49% reported anti-Islamic acts, often tied to rising tensions following pro-Palestinian protests and escalating global conflicts. This marks a 10% increase in reported Islamophobia since 2020. 

The rise in incidents follows the Israel-Gaza conflict on October 7, 2023, which intensified Islamophobic sentiments. Many Muslim students participated in protests advocating for Palestinian rights, but these demonstrations were frequently met with hostility. 

Some protests resulted in arrests, lawsuits, and violent protests. “Instead of feeling safe and supported on their campuses, many universities, administrators, and law enforcement have failed to offer the necessary support, leaving students feeling threatened, targeted, and isolated,” said Bayanne Kanawati, program manager at the Center for the Prevention of Hate and Bullying. 

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators march with flags and banners at US college campusesMuslim students report not only direct harassment but also an absence of empathy and institutional support. University of Southern California student Summer described the emotional toll, especially for those grieving personal losses in Gaza. 

“Some students, while in class, have received the devastating news of losing loved ones in Gaza. They mourn their families and face the silence and lack of empathy from their own community,” she said. 

A new report highlights surging levels of Islamophobia on college campuses across the state

The fear of repercussions extends beyond physical safety. According to the report, students worry about academic and career consequences when voicing their opinions. 

“These students should not have to suffer physical reprisals nor fear possible academic and future employment repercussions for simply practicing their constitutionally protected rights of petition, assembly, and speech,” said Osman Khan, director of the Center for the Prevention of Hate and Bullying.

The normalization of Islamophobia exacerbates the issue. Stanford University student Iman Deriche shared how her father advised her to stay indoors after October 7. “The fear and anxiety I experience every time I leave my dorm has been overwhelming since last year,” she said. 

UC Berkeley student Zaid Yousef pointed to a troubling acceptance of Islamophobia. “We’ve lived in a world where Islamophobia is so normalized that even Muslims sometimes feel it is normal,” he said, calling for collective action to address this issue.

The survey also highlights that 65% of students believe their universities did not adequately address the challenges facing Muslim communities. Despite the growing concerns, many students refrained from reporting incidents, citing a lack of trust in administrative action.

Advocates are urging educational institutions to create safer environments. “College administrators must create a safe and inclusive environment for all, particularly those from marginalized communities. Students should be able to express their identities and political views freely, without fear of discrimination,” Kanawati emphasized.

One student noted, “We cannot claim to be a global institution of higher learning while neglecting the global realities of our students.” The hope is that by raising awareness and fostering dialogue, institutions can take meaningful steps to protect the rights and well-being of all students.