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As a Muslim American activist, it appalls me how much American Islamophobia is evident in the 2008 presidential electoral process.

Barack Obama has been getting bashed for his supposed connections to Islam. In the cultural melting pot of America, one would assume the populace would be ready to embrace difference and change, including a presidential candidate with Muslim connections.

Oh but wait, if such change has even a spot of connection to Islam, this puts a damper on the candidate because somehow all Muslims must be painted as one color - terrorists.

First off, when media sources claim Obama's grandfather was a Muslim and somehow this means Obama is a Muslim, this is an utterly false claim.

Obama never once said he is Muslim; in fact, he said he is Christian. Not to mention, according to Islam, being Muslim comes from one's faith (iman). It is not passed on through familial ties.

Secondly, it is sad that he has to be on the defense to the American public because they're scared of Muslims.

There is nothing wrong with Muslims being politically active - there are many Muslim American political groups who vote and lobby the Muslim vote and take part in their civic duties, like any other American civic group.

However, there is fear of anyone different - which includes Muslims who wear different garb and therefore aren't considered part of the American populace.

source: EthnicNewz.org

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