No Longer Invisible: Arab and Muslim Exclusion After September 11

Abstract

After the September 11, 2001 attacks, Arab and Muslim Americans faced unprecedented scrutiny, violence, and discrimination, marking a significant shift in their visibility and treatment in American society. The backlash included hate crimes, increased government surveillance, and public support for profiling and restrictive measures targeting these communities. Government actions, such as arbitrary detentions and discriminatory immigration policies, exacerbated feelings of exclusion and fear. Despite some efforts towards greater public education about Islam and increased dialogue, the overall climate remained hostile, deeply affecting the identities and daily lives of Arab and Muslim Americans. The article argues that this period exposed not only the vulnerability of these communities but also underlying societal prejudices.