Positive Image of Islam

There are two key words here: one is education, and the other is bridge-building.

Probably much prejudice – of all kinds – is based on ignorance and negative stereotyping. If you wanted, you could start by doing a little fact-finding to discover what principle issues worry your fellow students or staff and address those first.

You can tackle this directly, but positively, by holding a series of events such as a short information series to counter any misconceptions staff and students may have about Muslims. Check out our comprehensive guide on organising events.

You could also write material for any student publications in your university. What about a whole series, or a regular column in fact? Why not suggest that Jewish, Hindu or Sikh students also be encouraged to write a column so that there are no accusations of bias or special treatment?

Secondly, there are other highly effective ways to combat prejudice in a more pragmatic way. One of the implied lessons from research at Harvard into issues around prejudice, the Implicit Associations Project is that having positive associations of a group is the key factor in thinking well of them and overcoming prejudice.

Give other people a positive experience of Muslims and of Islam by being that positive experience.

Some ways you can do it - by:

• participating in a positive and supportive way in their projects and events and organisations
• ttreating others who are not Muslim with respect and friendliness and acceptance
• holding interesting, enjoyable and welcoming events yourselves
• joining forces with others to make common cause on important issues, concerns, values that you all share

Take a look at some students' ideas on how to create a more positive image of Islam.