A Problem of Islamophobia in Australia

Islamophobia is an increasingly relevant issue in contemporary society, particularly in Australia. The term, first coined in 1918 in the work "La vie de Mohammed, prophète d'Allah" by Alphonse Etienne Dinet and Sliman ben Ibrahim, originally referred to negative prejudices against Islam and Muslims. However, the definition has evolved over time to encompass a broader spectrum of discrimination that often conflates religion with race. Currently, Muslims, who number approximately 1.6 billion worldwide and represent diverse ethnic backgrounds and cultures, are frequently viewed through a racial lens. This essay will delve into the problem of Islamophobia in Australia, examining its historical roots, manifestations, and potential solutions.

Historical Context of Islam in Australia

The history of Islam in Australia dates back to the mid-19th century, when Afghan Muslims first arrived as camel drivers in 1860. They played a crucial role in exploring the arid regions of the country. In the 1870s, Malay Muslims were recruited for pearling, and two mosques were established in the 19th century—one in Marree in 1861 and another, known as The Great Mosque of Adelaide, in 1888. By 1884, a significant Muslim celebration was recorded, with 70 individuals gathering for Eid prayers.

However, the early 20th century saw a decline in Muslim immigration due to the White Australia Policy, which restricted migration to individuals of European descent. Only Albanian Muslims were permitted entry during this time, and they also contributed to the construction of mosques in Australia. Following World War II, the need for population growth prompted the gradual dismantling of this policy. The passage of the Racial Discrimination Act in 1973 marked a significant turning point, allowing for increased Muslim immigration from various regions, including Lebanon, Turkey, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. As of the 2011 census, Muslims constituted approximately 2.2% of the Australian population.

Early Hostilities and Economic Factors

Despite their long history in Australia, Muslims have faced significant discrimination and violence. Initially, hostility towards Afghan camel drivers stemmed more from economic competition and racial prejudice than religious differences. The Afghans' ability to work for lower wages and their superior camels incited resentment among local populations, leading to violent confrontations. In one notable incident, local teamsters attacked Afghan camel men, yet the court dismissed the case due to insufficient evidence.

As the Asian population in Australia grew, fears among white Australians about losing their racial identity intensified, contributing to the establishment of the White Australia Policy. Despite this, the presence of mosques and Muslim communities indicated a degree of acceptance, albeit limited.

Modern Manifestations of Islamophobia

The onset of the Gulf War marked a significant shift in attitudes towards Muslims in Australia, with anti-Arab sentiments emerging prominently. Media portrayals played a crucial role in shaping public perception, often depicting Arabs and Muslims in a negative light. Abusive rhetoric became commonplace, with radio broadcasts calling for Arab Australians to "go back" to their countries. This anti-Muslim sentiment led to physical assaults, particularly targeting women in hijabs and men in turbans, as these appearances were associated with the Middle East.

Notably, Sikh men wearing turbans were also attacked due to mistaken identity, highlighting the dangerous conflation of religious and ethnic identities. In 1991, the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission reported that Arab Australians were among the most vilified groups in the country.

The Impact of September 11 and Subsequent Events

The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, further exacerbated Islamophobia in Australia. The subsequent association of Middle Eastern immigrants with criminal behavior intensified discrimination against Muslims. Following a series of sexual assaults by Lebanese-background individuals, public figures like Pauline Hanson made inflammatory statements linking Muslims to disrespect for Australian values. This led to a surge in anti-Muslim violence, with threats made against Islamic schools and communities.

In the years that followed, asylum seekers, particularly those from Muslim-majority countries, faced increasing hostility from the Australian government and society. High-profile incidents, such as the refusal of Afghan refugees entry into Australia, underscored the systemic issues surrounding Islamophobia.

Addressing Islamophobia in Australia

Despite the long-standing presence of Muslims in Australia, Islamophobia remains a pervasive problem that requires urgent attention. A comprehensive approach is necessary to combat discrimination and foster understanding among communities. Potential solutions include:

• Implementing educational programs in schools to promote awareness of the diversity within the Muslim community.
• Encouraging interfaith dialogues to build bridges between different religious groups.
• Promoting positive media representations of Muslims to counteract negative stereotypes.
• Strengthening laws against hate crimes and providing support for victims of discrimination.

Conclusion

Islamophobia in Australia is a complex issue with deep historical roots. While progress has been made in terms of Muslim immigration and acceptance, significant challenges remain. Understanding the diversity of the Muslim community and addressing the misconceptions surrounding it is crucial in combating Islamophobia. By fostering education and dialogue, Australian society can work towards a more inclusive future for all its residents.

References

1. Dinet, A. E., & Ibrahim, S. B. (1918). La vie de Mohammed, prophète d'Allah.

2. Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission. (1991). Report on Arab Australians.

3. Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2011). Census of Population and Housing.

4. Racial Discrimination Act 1975.

5. Hanson, P. (2001). Statements on immigration and Islam.