Muslim Marine recalls tough times he faced after 9/11
In an article published in Newsweek, he writes that he was ridiculed in his unit and even labeled a bin Laden or terrorist
WASHINGTON – An American Muslim who served in the elite U.S. Marine Corps has revealed that he faced tough times shortly after September 11, 2001.
When the planes hit the Twin Towers on 9/11, Muslim American Mansoor Shams, who was then 19, said he was horrified, as were countless Americans.
In an article published in Newsweek, he writes that he was ridiculed in his unit and even labeled a bin Laden or terrorist.
It was even suggested that he might be a threat to his colleagues.
“In fact, I remember quite vividly, being called names like Bin Laden, Taliban, and terrorist. Some Marines would half-jokingly even say things like, don’t blow us up Shams or boom,” he wrote.
He said that post-9/11 challenges for American Muslims continue.
“Since then, and in the aftermath of 9/11, while many Americans may have moved on with their lives, most American Muslims, over two decades later still continue to feel the repercussions,” Shams said.
He said American Muslims felt they were treated unequally and faced constant microaggressions and stereotyping because of their names, clothing, or beards.
Even children who were not yet born at the time faced derogatory remarks in schools, a testament to the persistence of prejudice.
The former marine and current member of the Council on Foreign Relations – a think tank – says anti-Muslim resentment persists.
A recent campaign speech by former President Trump, in which he hinted at reinstating an immigration ban, underscored the ongoing conflation of Islam and terrorism.
As founder of Muslimmarine.org, which documents Muslims in the U.S. armed forces, Shams urged his fellow Americans to recognize and accept Muslim Americans without prejudice.
He said the heinous acts of 19 individuals should not define the faith of millions.
Mansoor served for four years in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he attained the rank of sergeant and received several awards, including a meritorious promotion, the Marine of the Quarter award, and a certificate of commendation.
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