Perceptions of Muslims on Campus

FlashPOD Talk Topic: Are Muslims Misunderstood on Campus?

Location: Birmingham University

Name of Blogger: Sarah!

Names of participants:

Alaa, Aamina, Farhana, Noorie, Faiza, Humairah, Maria, Sarah.

The Emotional Barometer [1 (very calm) to 10 (very heated)]: 3

The Quality of the Discussion [1 (poor) to 10 (excellent)]: 8!

Key issues/questions about the topic:

Are there misunderstandings?

Are there more/less misunderstandings on campus, rather than in the larger community?

Whose job is it to rectify these misunderstandings?

What are the consequences of not addressing them?

What were the initial opinions of the talkers?

Universities are generally hubs for open-minded people so there are fewer misconceptions than in society at large. Some people are afraid of tackling common misunderstandings because of wanting to fit in, not being sure of the reason, etc.

How did opinions change during the FlashPOD Talk?

Everyone is responsible for addressing misconceptions around them. If you don't know, it's fine to say that and find out! Isocs can play a big part in this too!

What positive actions will our FlashPOD take based on our discussion?

Rectify misunderstandings wherever we find them! IA!

Blogger Comments:

From the eloquent and understanding way the girls were voicing their opinions, I think we have some future diplomats in our ranks. This was a real eye-opener of a discussion, definetly most effective!