Half of Muslim College Students in US State of California Face Discrimination, Survey Suggests

A survey conducted by the California chapter of the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR) and the Center for the Prevention of Hate and Bullying (CPHB) indicates that approximately 50% of Muslim college students in California have experienced harassment or discrimination on campus, Anadolu Agency reported yesterday.

The report, based on responses from 720 students at 87 colleges and universities, reveals a 10% increase in reported Islamophobia since 2020.

The survey highlights that recent geopolitical events, particularly the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023, and the subsequent conflict in Gaza, have intensified feelings of vulnerability among Muslim students. The report notes a rise in anti-Palestinian sentiment and anti-Arab racism, contributing to an environment where Muslim students feel increasingly targeted and unsupported.

Additionally, the report addresses the challenges faced by students participating in anti-war protests, stating that these demonstrations have often been met with efforts to suppress their voices.