How to Be an Ally to the Muslim Women in Your Life

I’m not going to sugarcoat this: The past few months have been emotionally tough for my Muslim friends, and probably also for yours. No matter where you fall politically, you’ve followed the discussions about the travel ban that the Trump administration issued in January and was most recently stalled by a federal judge in Hawaii. Many people — including that judge — have felt that the ban unfairly targeted Muslims based on their religious beliefs. Reported incidences of hate crimes targeting Jews and Muslims have gone up too. It’s a hard time for many people to feel safe.

This isn’t about politics, of course. Whether you vote Republican or Democrat, you know people have a right to feel accepted and cared for no matter what. And because you’re a kind, compassionate person, you want to make sure you do what you can to offer support. Here are three things you can do, courtesy of MuslimGirl.com founder Amani Al-Khatahtbeh:

Here’s what Al-Khatahbeh has to say:

1. Stand up for Muslim women. This one is simple: Call out discrimination or racism when you see it. “That small change ripples outward.”

2.Let Muslim women talk (and actually listen). Safety pins are a nice sentiment, but they don’t accomplish anything. Making sure that Muslim voices are heard does. “Pass the mic, and when you can, amplify those voices every which way. If you see an article written by a Muslim woman about what it’s like to be a Muslim woman, hit share.”

3. Support Muslim women. “Whether it’s small businesses, or initiatives and projects led by Muslim women to create a difference today, amplify them! Support them!”

Remember, Muslim women don’t need you to save them. Supporting means respecting!

What’s one way you’re supporting the Muslim women in your life? Tell us @BritandCo!