Essay On Arab American Immigrants

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The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that 1.8 million Arab Americans live in the United States. When including immigrants and all people of Middle Eastern decent the number jumps to between 3 and 4 million. This figure is an approximation as many immigrants or people of Middle Eastern descent can be unwilling to identify themselves. This reluctance can be attributed to mistrust of the government as well as the general ignominy present-day American society has attributed to this demographic. (Ahmad) Global events of late have brought about increased scrutiny on the Middle East. Arabs, Muslims, and others of Middle Eastern decent have been forced into the spotlight following the attacks on September 11, 2001, and the subsequent U.S. military involvement…show more content…
Those who once felt integrated into American society can suddenly become targets of scrutiny and stereotyping. Damaging stereotypes for Middle Eastern men range from "the terrorist" or the "sheikh," while women can be considered as subjugated and oppressed. The experience of Arab Americans and Middle Eastern immigrants in the U.S. can vary by age. The "terrorist" standard usually depicts a younger, extremist individual and middle aged and elderly immigrants can be considered as less threatening by society. This is still a great source of anxiety for older immigrants as they may be concerned for the well being and safety of their children and grandchildren who are more likely to be subject to such scrutiny. Still, aging and elderly Middle Eastern individuals may be targeted as they tend to have accents, wear more traditional dress, and practice traditional customs. The Qur'an and the Sunnah are two primary sources of Islamic law. Both create family obligations to provide physical, mental, and emotional support for the elderly. (Elsaman) In Islam, the elderly are honored and respected and the importance of one's parents is placed next to God. The Qur'an outlines the rights of parents in verses

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