An Exercise in Conscience & Perspective

*Note: this blog is an assignment for class in which we are to view a situation from the perspective of a Muslim in the U.S. Military and does not reflect the religious views of the writer*

The whole world would probably agree when I say that ever since the 9/11 attacks, it has become increasingly more difficult to live life as a Muslim on U.S. soil, not to mention being one among the ranks of America's finest serving in the U.S. Military. Each day, I fear that somehow I may become implicated by the default of my religion, even though I remain true to my country, dedicated to protecting the life, land and liberty that I love.

It seems to me that the media will do anything that they can to take a story involving a Muslim and somehow dig and dig until they can tie that individual back to some radical group in the Middle East or "intercept" communication of them speaking with some rebel organization. What I think is that those involved in media reporting will do whatever they can for a compelling story, even if it means exaggerating the details.

Recently, reports have come out concerning the Fort Hood shootings that insist Maj. Nidal Hasan, who is thought to be the sole shooter in this unbelievable atrocity, has been in contact with a radical cleric who is known for anti-American teachings. Read about that here. Even though the article doesn't directly say Hasan was working in collaboration with this man or that there was even a connection, the fact that they chose to report on it implies an accusation.

These types of articles and media coverage have a negative effect on how Americans view the Muslim religion and those that practice it, no matter what their citizenship status is. While I have very close relationships with people outside of the Muslim religion whom I know respect my allegiance to the U.S., I still experience discrimination and racial profiling. I appreciate the coverage of events that the media provides, but I feel that they should wait to report certain details until they know the truth; until they have the full account of facts, instead of stirring up unnecessary accusations.