Muslim Radicalization Hearing is a Bad Idea
It’s amazing what lawmakers are doing with taxpayers’ money. Representative Peter T. King, the New York Republican and Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, began a “congressional investigation of Muslim American radicalization.”[1] King claims that the catalyst which led him to conclude that a hearing was necessary, was the consistent warning from the Obama administration concerning the rise of homegrown terrorism. I see more problems than benefits. Here are three:
A Commercial for Radical Islam
The hearing provides an opportunity for real Islamic radicals to argue that their hatred for America, and the west for that matter, is reciprocal. They will be able to say, “We hate them because they hate us.” In other words, though the objective of the hearing is to discuss the radicalization of American Muslims, it may serve as a poster for recruitment. Perhaps this may seem minuscule or far-fetch. However, it is a real possibility.
The Fear of Muslims
Included in this so-called, “free society” of ours are people who are afraid of what they don’t understand. Though in theory, Americans claim to understand that within any major group there are smaller groups that may hold differences that are substantial, in practice, they can’t resist generalizing. Generalizing is extremely dangerous when dealing with people because the tendency to treat everyone underneath the label the same way is irresistible.
The fact that a hearing is being may suggest to Americans that the Muslim community is a big threat because of its susceptibility to radicalization. Those who were already terrified of the Muslims next door, will not only be more afraid but will see their camp enlarge.
The Impact on Muslims
Though some Muslims think that the hearing is a good idea—they are hoping that it will show America a better portrait, some feel that it is undue attention that will do nothing but promote hate. If the hearing does have negative effects, as I’m suggesting, then naturally it will affect a Muslim’s experience in this country. Having someone look at you with hatred or fear is disturbing, especially when you have no desire to invoke those emotions.
[1] “Domestic Terrorism Hearing Opens With Contrasting Views on Dangers,” The New York Times.
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