Submitted by Ahmed (United States), Sep 9, 2004 at 13:38
I'm no longer a Muslim, but when I was, I don't recall experiencing any victimization or discrimination at all. The only incidents I ever had were minor ones, usually involving teens (who'll harass anybody). Even though I'm not a Muslim now, I still have a Muslim name and thus most people will probably assume I am one. Still no discrimination.
We (Americans) are an open-minded people. Immigrants are accepted into communities and their presence is often taken as a welcome opportunity to learn. Whenever people asked about my personal info, it was always with a look of interest and delight in their faces. This is why this is such a culturally rich nation.
Sadly, so much of what makes this nation great is being ignored by others. People focus on the negatives or they distort things. Sure, prejudice occurs, but as you pointed out, often the result is great compensation to the victims. Yet, often the focus is on the prejudice and not on the excellent systems in place to redress these grievances.
It's great to have a reminder of what a wonderful nation we live in. I am very proud of it.
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