What is islamophobia?
UEA adopts the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on British Muslims’ definition of islamophobia, in line with UK government bodies.
Islamophobia is a form of discrimination and is not acceptable.
It is understood as a form of racism that targets expressions of Muslim identity, or perceived Muslim identity (“Muslimness”).
What can islamophobia look like?
Islamophobia can take many forms. It may be expressed through language, behaviour or actions, and can happen in person or online.
Examples can include:
- Calling for or justifying harm towards Muslim people
- Making false, harmful, or stereotypical claims about Muslims or Muslim communities
- Suggesting that Muslims are inherently dangerous, extremist, or linked to terrorism
- Promoting conspiracy theories about Muslims influencing governments or institutions
- Claiming there is a “threat” posed by Muslim communities
- Blaming all Muslims for the actions of one individual or group
- Suggesting Islamophobia or harm against Muslims is exaggerated or not real
- Claiming Muslim people are more loyal to their religion or global communities than to their country
- Imposing unfair expectations or “tests” of loyalty on Muslim people
- Using offensive or dehumanising language, imagery or stereotypes about Muslims
- Holding all Muslims responsible for the actions of Muslim-majority countries
This is not a full list. Something can still be islamophobic even if it is not included here.
Beliefs, identity and political discussion
It is important to recognise that discussion or debate about religion, politics, or international issues is not, in itself, Islamophobic.
For example:
- It is not islamophobic to discuss or critique governments, policies, or political situations
- It is not islamophobic to engage in respectful debate about religion or belief
However, language or behaviour may be considered islamophobic if it targets Muslim people as a group, or relies on stereotypes, assumptions, or unfair generalisations.
How you might feel
Experiencing islamophobia can have a significant impact. You might feel:
- Upset, distressed, or unsafe
- Isolated or excluded
- Angry or frustrated
- Unsure whether what happened was acceptable
These feelings are valid, and support is available.