Prejudice Against Arab-Americans
by Maher Salah (Oct. ’01)
The recent terrorist attacks in New York City and Washington D.C. have greatly affected the lives of all Americans. Our entire nation mourns this great loss and searches for answers. Although many people are scared and fearing further attacks, we must, as Orthodox Christians, become firm in our faith. We must also remember that God will not give us anything that we cannot handle without His help. I recently got the chance to discuss these recent events with my priest, Father George Shalhoub. Here are some of his thoughts and reactions to the events that have shaken our nation.
“We must acknowledge this true injury, and remember the pain all people are feeling. We cannot pretend that these things will go away. This crisis is a sad event that will touch Americans of all religions, for pain knows no color, beliefs, or boundaries. Although we may be frightened, this tragedy will make the United States stronger and it will give us the chance to be courageous, supportive, and extend a helping hand to our neighbors and all other people. Christianity challenges us to not live in fear, but in hope. We must have God’s hope poured into our hearts, so we can withstand this tragedy. Perseverance gives us hope and as St Paul said, ‘Hope does not disappoint us.’ (Romans 5:5)”
I asked Father George how children and teens should try to handle these events. “The youth must remember how much they are loved by God and Jesus Christ, who died for us so we may live. Our young people may not know how to deal with this violence because they are desensitized to it. No humans live without suffering, but we must rejoice…God is love and there should be no fear in love. Especially now, we must remember to love our friends and neighbors. We should go out of our way to help others, in any possible way, by donating money or supplies, sponsoring charities, and participating in activities to help those in need. These things will redeem us.”
We later discussed the possible backlash and prejudice toward Arab-Americans here in the United States. “We must not be intimidated, as members of the church, because of our skin color or last names. We are a part of the landscape of this country, and we help make it as beautiful as it is. We should not allow discrimination to rise, nor should we feel one ounce of shame or guilt. This crime was ungodly and an act of terrorism. Not all Muslims and Arabs are criminals. We should avoid foolish debates and allow the authorities to find those responsible.”
As crisis and possible war face our country, we must remember who we are. We are Americans. But first and foremost, we are Christians. People all over the world are in need of our prayers and help. We must pray for those who have departed this earth, as well as for those who are suffering and hoping to find loved ones. We must also pray for the people who committed these awful crimes; that they may repent and ask God for forgiveness of their sins. These tragedies have presented all of us with the opportunity to put loving actions with our faith. As Christians we are called on to help those in need, especially in times of trouble. As Father George put it, “We must die to selfishness, fear, and inconvenience and live for charity, good will, and hope.”
“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity” (Psalm 133:1). In this time of uncertainty we must constantly focus on the one certainty in our lives: Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We must continue to come together, heal as a nation, and live in God’s love.
Father George Shalhoub is the priest at St. Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church in Livonia, Michigan.
