Category: 9/11

The most tragic event to occur on US soil was the September 11 attacks in 2001 by the terrorist organization, al-Qaeda. Pamela Engel and Ellen Loanes from Business Insider describe the tragedy as “the most deadliest attack on US soil since Pearl Harbor,” claiming the lives of 2,977 innocent civilians, 19 hijackers and injuring more than 6,000 others. Two weeks after the September 11 attacks, the Federal Bureau of Investigation connected the hijackers to al-Qaeda, a global, decentralized terrorist network. In a number of videos, audio, interview, and printed statements, senior members of al-Qaeda have also asserted responsibility for organizing the September 11 attacks. It is believed that Osama bin Laden, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, and Mohammed Atef were responsible for plotting the attacks after meeting together in 1999. Evidence shows that Mohammed planned the attacks and that Atef recruited the hijackers. 9/11 was a major turning point for Muslims because society wrongfully perceived them as the enemy, and blame was unjustly put upon them for the wrongdoings of an extremist group (Williams, “A Brief History of Islam in America.”). The exaggerated fear, hatred, and hostility toward Islam and its believers, following the September 11 attacks, resulted in bias, discrimination, marginalization, and exclusion of Muslims from social, political and civil life. This mistreatment became known as Islamophobia. Although life for Muslim-Americans was difficult prior to 9/11, life became unimaginably horrible and frightening for them in the wake of the attacks as Americans began to outcast them, commit hate crimes and racially discriminate against them.

Tensions amongst the Middle East and the West were high even before the 2001 attacks, beginning in 1914 when the West became involved in the politics of oil after British soldiers landed in Iraq to protect oil supplies from the neighboring nation, Persia. America’s interest and involvement in the Middle East began during the Truman administration in 1948 and has continued into the present day. After the attacks, the United States had made some serious changes to ensure the safety of American citizens. The post-9/11 period is the time after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, characterized by heightened suspicion of non-Americans in the United States, increased government efforts to address terrorism, and a more aggressive American foreign policy. Twenty years ago the United States surveillance was nothing compared to the present day, and airport security was not as serious. Furthermore, after the attacks shifted the nation’s attitude and concerns on the safety of the American people as well as being careful and privacy. The United States passed certain acts, focusing on National Security and Defense. The main effects of 9/11 had on the United States are the war with Afghanistan, Immigration and deportation, the concern to keep the sky safe (Airport security, etc), and the increase in surveillance. All due to the doings on a single terrorist organization, which completely affected the lives of Muslim-Americans seeking asylum in the United States to face even more backlash and treated worse than ever before (Tokhi, “Afghanistan Before 9/11/01”).

For Muslims living in the United States, there was life before 9/11 and there was life after 9/11. The September 11 attacks had an astronomical impact on Muslim-Americans. They were left doubly traumatized by the attacks themselves and the misplaced retaliation against their communities that followed. Following the 9/11 attacks, anyone who slightly bore a resemblance to the terrorists shown on TV, regardless of other factors, became an enemy. The negative stereotyping is still prevalent to this day and Muslims have been faced with new struggles daily. There have been various reports of hate crimes, a crime involving violence, that is motivated by prejudice on the basis of race, religion, sexual orientation, or other grounds, and racial discrimination. Aside from these challenges, traveling by airplane and going through security checkpoints, seeking employment and attending religious services without the fear of being attacked or unfairly discriminated against has become a distant reality for many. From the FBI database, hate crimes soared to an unbelievably high number compared to the little number it was pre-9/11 (Aziz, “The World 9/11 Took From Us”). Brian Levin, who is a Professor, Department of Criminal Justice and Director, Center for the Study of Hate & Extremism, said that the data shows, “There were 481 crimes reported against Muslims in 2001, up from 28 the year before. However, from 2002 until 2014, the number of anti-Muslim crimes receded to a numerical range between 105 to 160 annually” (Levin, “Explaining the Rise in Hate Crimes against Muslims in the US.”). Levin also put a visual representation on the changes throughout the days then years by adding in a line graph. The line graph not only shows the numbers of hate crimes after the attacks but as well shows that even prior days to the attacks the number of hate crimes was being committed to harm Muslim-Americans. It shows that the Americans have a persona on what the United States is supposed to be like, and this leads to the Americans going after the people that are unwanted and different, treating them like outcasts to this society. There is also life before 9/11.

Muslim-Americans also faced backlash for their beliefs/religion. Muslims are followers of the Islamic faith. A follower of Islam believes that the Quran is the word of God. Islam places great importance on serving God and following Islamic law. Muslims believe their religion to be the ultimate religion, revealed over time by many prophets. Talk about statistics of the crimes towards the religion/belief, Supporting point: Hate crimes motivated by religious bias 18.7 percent were anti-Islamic (Muslim, 2017). Levin believed that after the attack the hatred on Muslims boomed, he said that “The new study from Mr. Levin’s nonpartisan group, based on official police reports in 20 states, estimated that there were about 260 hate crimes against Muslims nationwide in 2015. That was the most since the record 481 documented hate crimes against Muslims in 2001, when the Sept. 11 attacks set off waves of crimes targeting Muslims and Middle Easterners.” Levin also said that “New data from researchers at California State University, San Bernardino, found that hate crimes against American Muslims were up 78 percent over the course of 2015” (Levin, “Explaining the Rise in Hate Crimes against Muslims in the US.”) These evidences show the reader how the religion of Islam was targeted even before and after the attacks in New York. But shows the statistics on how everything was affected.

The treatment of Muslim-Americans made a turn for the worst after the attack on New York. Hate crimes against American Muslims have soared to their highest levels since the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, according to data compiled by researchers, an increase fueled by terrorist attacks in the United States and abroad and by divisive language on the campaign trail.” In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, hate crimes against people of Middle-Eastern descent increased from 354 attacks in 2000 to 1,501 attacks in 2001 (Munir, “As a Muslim-American Immigrant, 9/11 Is a Painful Memory: Opinion”). One of the many victims of the backlash was a Middle-Eastern man in Houston, Texas who was shot and wounded after an assailant accused him of ‘blowing up the country.” Furthermore, four immigrants were shot and killed by a man named Larme Price who confessed to killing them as ‘revenge’ for the September 11 attacks. Although Price described his victims as Arabs, only one was actually from an Arab country. This appears to be a trend; on account of stereotypes of Arabs, several non-Arab and non-Muslim groups were subjected to attacks in the wake of 9/11, including several Sikh men who were attacked for wearing their religiously mandated turban. According to a report prepared by the Arab American Institute, three days after the Oklahoma City bombing (which was committed by anti-government white American Timothy McVeigh), ‘more than 200 serious hate crimes were committed against Arab Americans and American Muslims (Lichtblau, “Hate Crimes Against American Muslims Most Since Post-9/11 Era”). The same was true in the days following September 11.

Islamophobia is the unreasonable dislike or fear of, and prejudice against Muslims or Islam. Islamophobia has become a fact of life for Muslim-Americans around the nation. Much like antisemitism, racism or sexism, Islamophobia allows us to identify cruelties and injustices that would otherwise go unrecognized and unchallenged. Before the attacks, Islamophobia had another name, known as Orientalism. The term Islamophobia was new after the attacks but the concept of this has always been here. According to Jenée Desmond-Harris, he believes that “Pre-9/11 the predecessor of Islamophobia was called Orientalism. That was the system that mothered Islamophobia; it feeds and provides many of the same stereotypes, systems of fear, and caricatures” (Desmond-Harris, “The Way We Talk about Islamophobia Every 9/11 Anniversary Is Maddeningly Oversimplified”). This shows that even pre-9/11 Muslim-Americans or any Middle Eastern were being racially discriminated and treated like they were never supposed to come to the United States. The crimes against the Muslim-Americans due to Islamophobia were completely disturbing and disappointing to witness. Jenee also said, “A May 2016 report by Georgetown’s Bridge Initiative counted approximately 174 reported incidents of anti-Muslim violence and vandalism during 2015. These included 12 murders, 29 physical assaults, 50 threats against persons or institutions, 54 acts of vandalism or destruction of property, eight acts of arson, and nine shootings or bombings.” and “That’s 154 more anti-Muslim hate crimes than were reported in 2014, and a huge increase since before 9/11: American Muslims are now approximately six to nine times more likely to suffer these kinds of attacks”(Gjelten, “Marked Turning Point For Muslims In Increasingly Diverse America”). Not only did Muslim-Americans receive verbal racial abuse, but they also suffered from assault and crimes that involved violence.

Therefore with all of the data, and reports the lives for Muslim-Americans were dreadful pre and post 9/11. Many had thought that the lives of Muslim-Americans pre-9/11 were peaceful and adequate. The Muslim-Americans believed that their lives were going to be different after fleeing their previous countries because they needed some sort of asylum, freedom, and a place to feel safe. But in reality, they were still racially discriminated against, assaulted physically and verbally, and as well as being victims of hate crimes. Although it was not as large of reports and numbers, it is still important and wrong. Post 9/11 is when the numbers to these reports and crimes skyrocketed.

Zohreh Assemi, an Iranian American Muslim lady owner of nail and facial salon was robbed and beaten badly and called terrorist. She was kicked, sliced with box cutter and her hand was smashed by the hammer. It continued to two weeks of phone calls calling her terrorist and get out of the town that her kind of people are not welcomed in the area. It was mentioned by her friends and family.

As Islam is the religion of peace. Muslims cannot kill any innocent person whether He is a believer or not. It is clearly mentioned in the Quran that killing of any innocent person is as though killing of whole of humanity. There are many authentic sayings of Prophet also that are against the killing like Whoever killed a Mujahid shall not smell the fragrance of the heaven though the fragrance of heaven smelt at the 40 years distance.

Up to this point, American Muslims have endeavored to react to the test of Islam phobia in different ways. Admirably, in their push to fortify their key position to counter the harming surge of Islam phobia they have made new arrangements and partnerships with numerous non-Muslim American gatherings. Their exertion toward this path is profoundly unmistakable in various territories. In the first place, there is much movement in the region of interfaith exchange particularly including individuals from the three Abrahamic religions, to be specific Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Second, in the political field, we see a developing Muslim activism to position their impact in both the Republican and Democratic gatherings. One of the objectives of this activism is to help impact American remote approach. Third, we see Muslim understudies and teachers making coalitions with their non-Muslim associates in the colleges and universities in quest for the shared objectives of social equity and opportunity. For instance, we may allude to the job of Muslim understudies relationship in across the nation grounds in assembling support from different grounds gatherings to counter the Islam phobia aroused by the ‘Grounds Watch’ of Daniel Pipes, a vocal faultfinder of American Islam.

It is the fight for impact in forming the American outside approach that will be the most unpleasant and the most expansive between the supporters and sympathizers of Islam and its adversaries. The issue of Islam in American remote arrangement is going to impact a great deal of different issues which connect with American Muslims, both in the positive and the negative sense. The rivals of American Islam are going to observe every progression the Muslim people group is taking in the political field. Truth be told, there have been endeavors at political pre-emptive hits against the network with the perspective on counteracting American Muslim political impact from coming to fruition.

Prophet Muhammad PBUH was subjected to horrible Insults in his life. Instead of reacting He remained steadfast and tolerant. We must follow his behavior against every situation.

In Holy Quran, It is mentioned that Allah SWT tests us in different ways. We should stay steadfast and patient as Allah is with those who have patience. Pray that Allah guides those who mocks the religion. The Prophet also prayed for the guidance of Quraysh as they were involved in the Islam phobic acts and were ignorant to Islam and Prophet.

It is hard to state what the long haul effect of Islam phobia on American Islam would be. Yet, based on present patterns examined in the previous pages, we have valid justification to trust that the result of the conflict between the different sides of the separation Islamic confirmation and Islam phobia would be of extraordinary importance to the remainder of the world, especially the Islamic world.

References

1. Abdo, Genevieve, No God But God: Egypt and the Triumph of Islam, Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press, 2000.
2. Abdo, Genevieve, and Jonathan Lyons, Answering Only to God: Faith and Freedom in Twenty- First-Century Iran, New York: Henry Holt and Company, 2003.
3. Abdul-Jabar, Faleh, ed., Ayatollahs, Sufis and Ideologues, London: Saqi Books, 2002.
4. Abrahamian, Ervand, Khomeinism: Essays on the Islamic Republic, Berkeley: University of California Press, 1993.
5. Abu-Amr, Ziad, Islamic Fundamentalism in the West Bank and Gaza: Muslim Brotherhood and Islamic Jihad, Bloomington: Indiana University Press, 1994.
6. Abuza, Zachary, Militant Islam in Southeast Asia: Crucible of Terror, Boulder, Colo., and London: Lynne Rienner Publishers, 2003.
7. Afshar, Haleh, Islam and Feminism, New York: MacMillan, 1999.
8. Ahmad, Aziz, Studies in Islamic Culture in the Indian Environment, Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press, 1964
9. Deschenaux, J (2011). ‘Nontraditional workplace harassment lawsuits increasing’. Retrieved March 28, 2018
10. “Muslim Biz Gal Beaten”, New York Post. Sep 16 2007

September 11th, 2001 would be remembered as the worst tragedy to ever happen to the United States. On the morning of 9/11, four planes would be hijacked in hopes of crippling the American economy. Two of the four planes would then crash into the World Trade Center in New York City leaving the twin towers destroyed. Nearly 3,000 people lost their lives in or around the World Trade Center (Samantha& Epatko, 2018). This soon would be recognized as one of the worst attacks in America. Since then, the unfolding of The United States would take place causing effects such as health risks, economic consequences, security policies, and American views on Muslims. Each year on this date, we recognize and remember the men and women who lost their lives and the changes that took place in American history.

Following, the 9/11 attacks reports have shown that a 53% increase in cardiovascular ailment occurred in response to high-stress acute (Holman, et.al.). Exposure to the attacks shows a higher rate of PTSD as well as the fear that one might experience terrorism again (Holman, et al.). Almost two decades later, illnesses such as digestive diseases, cancers, and respiratory have been linked to 9/11(Samantha& Epatko, 2018). Risk factors including intense dust exposure, homes being raided by layers of dust, witnessing acts of horror, and lack of social support have played in physical and mental health issues (“Physical and Mental Health-9/11 Health”).

In 2011, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention established the World Trade Center Program to better track symptoms and treat people who were involved that day (Samantha & Epatko, 2018). The WTC program has found over 90 health conditions and 60 different cancers due to 9/11. Close to 40,000 people have contracted a medical condition since 9/11(Flannigan,2016). Although, after much research and study there has yet to be an actual exact link to these illnesses from 9/11. Many who enrolled and treated were first responders. Earlier this year, with the help of comedian John Stewart, Congress passed funding for first responders until 2092 (Samantha & Epatko, 2018).

The attacks on the World Trade Center left lower Manhattan in a financial crisis. Over 30 million square feet were damaged and destroyed. Between property damage and clean-up, it was at an estimated cost of $33 billion (Bram, et. Al.). Other expenses that contributed to the cost included loss of lives income, World Trade Center buildings, and utilities. Due to the attack employment had declined and vacant office buildings rose. Though in 2001 America was already in a recession, 9/11 heightened it even more. Many jobs were lost including offices, retail stores, and transportation. Industries such as restaurants, hotels, and airfare dropped between 6% to 20%. Businesses had to cut back on hours and wages (Bram, et al.). The stock market had closed; tourism had dropped and oil prices had surged.

Another hefty expense caused by 9/11 was the war on terror. President Bush declared war on September 20th, 2011. Funding money included the cost of war, homeland security, and future war and veteran care. At the end of Bush’s two terms, the war on terror was at a cost of $1.164 trillion. Later President Obama would spend $807 trillion and President Trump budgeted $156 billion. This would leave the war on terror at $2.216 trillion (Amadeo, 2019). America then found itself in a major debt crisis. In 2018 due to the war on terror, America was in debt of around $21 trillion.

Left horrified and panicked the public felt that there was a need to improve homeland security after the 9/11 attacks. The Bush administration later created a strategy that would take place in securing Americans against acts of terrorism. The main effort in the prevention of terrorism is to seek and identify the attackers.

According to Harvard Kennedy School, the number one way to prevent terrorist attacks is intelligence; this has been the top concern for homeland security. Agencies such as the CIA have been collecting data and performing intelligent activities (Miller, et al.). Though it is difficult to truly measure how one is thinking we also deepen our surveillance and suspicion of larger groups. Since the 9/11 attacks, awareness of foreign visitors and special groups has been aggressively watched. It has been instilled in the government to look at any individual that might be considered high risk. Points of entry and borders have cracked down on visitors entering the country. The Bush administration also invested in preparing first responders for acts of terrorism. This involved special equipment, training, and education. The public health system also becomes a concern in detecting chemical attacks. Making the public more aware of chemical attacks this set preparation oh how to deal with emergency care (Miller, et al.).

Before 9/11 going through a metal detector was pretty much all it took to board your plane. Identification checks and screening were not as thorough before entering the gates. There were no restrictions on items that you could travel with. Objects like nail clippers, box cutters, and liquids could make their way onto a plane. Airport Behavior and appearance were never really looked at or a major concern (O’Connor, 2016). Since September 11th airport security has changed dramatically. Not only by the long lines but also by the creation of TSA or also known as the Transportation Security Administration (Seaney, 2017). TSA has slowed down the process of boarding an aircraft by establishing checkpoints before entering the airport gates. After the attacks, welcoming parties were no longer allowed through the gates, only ticketed passengers. With TSA guarding the airport other changes were made. New procedures were set in place like showing identification along with your ticket, baggage must be scanned with all special items like toiletries and electronics taken out of bags to also be scanned. All outwear and footwear must be taken off when going through the metal detector and pat down. TSA also began to screen and watch for unusual behavior. Behavior that draws attention and concern. Excessively yawning, inappropriate attire and nervousness were all traits to look out for (O’Connor, 2016). All procedures are still enforced to this day and have not been a concern about whether it will be changed soon.

While most Americans blamed the attacks on al-Qaeda and not Muslims in general, some still perceived Muslims as guilty (Amad, 2019). U.S. Muslims have said that they find it more difficult to live in the United States after 9/11 than before. In 2001, the rate of anti-Muslim assaults rises to a high of 94% after the attacks on the World Trade Center (Samantha& Epatko, 2018). It was believed not by all Americans but some that the Islam religion is the main source of causing terrorism (Khan, 2018) In many reports and interviews many American Muslims were caught off guard by the attacks (Amad,2019). The Muslim community was filled with confusion and denial. Americans were raw with their grief and reactions. Four days after 9/11 a Sikh- American man was shot and killed in Arizona. The gunman assumed he was a Muslim due to his turban and shot him. In 2015, 3 Muslims were attacked and killed in North Carolina. It was soon to be one of the most publicized cases (Samantha & Epatko, 2018). In changing the stereotype of Muslims in America, Muslim activist Heraa Hashmi founder of Muslims condemn is working on different changes to change the mindset of the people (Khan, 2018).

This year 2019 marks the 18th anniversary of the worst terror attack on the U.S. Although the raw emotion and grief are still there, we take a day in remembering the ones who lost their lives. We recognize and cherish the last goodbyes and I love you’ s (“Chicago Tribune – We Are Currently Unavailable in Your Region.”). It’s a tragedy that will never be forgotten. In honoring and learning more about the 9/11 attacks you can visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum located at The World Trade Center in New York City. You’ll have the chance to visit, learn and connect as well as support. This Memorial and museum serve as the documentation and significance of September 11th. Explore artifacts and get personal with real-life stories as you make your way around the Memorial (“The Museum | National September 11 Memorial & Museum.”).

The aftermath of 9/11 is still present, nearly two decades later. After the unfolding, we Americans were faced with health risks, economic disasters, security policies, and facing the war on terror.

Works Cited

1. Amad Shaikh. “Remembering 9/11 as a Muslim American.” Aljazeera.Com, Al Jazeera, 12 Sept. 2019, www.aljazeera.com/indepth/opinion/2011/09/20119893039787215.html.
2. Amadeo, Kimberly. ‘How the 9/11 Attacks Still Damage the Economy Today.’ The Balance, The Balance, 26. Jan. 2019, https://www.thebalance.com/how-the-9-11-attacks-still-effect-the-economy-today-3305536.
3. ‌ Bram, Jason, et al. “Measuring the Effects of the September 11 Attack on New York City.” Core.Ac.Uk, 2019, core.ac.uk/reader/6792968, oai:RePEc:fip:fednep:y:2002:i:nov:p:5-20:n:v.8no.2. Accessed 31 Oct. 2019.
4. “Chicago Tribune – We Are Currently Unavailable in Your Region.” Chicagotribune.Com, 2018, www.chicagotribune.com/nation-world/ct-new-September-11-anniversary-20190911-qthunbinjfgjhemlvp76dnclae-story.html. Accessed 31 Oct. 2019.
5. Flannigan, Jenna. “15 Years Later, Nearly 40,000 People Have Health Conditions Related to 9/11.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 6 Sept. 2016, www.healthline.com/health-news/nearly-40000-have-health-conditions-related-to-9-11#2.
6. Holman, E. Alison, et al. “Terrorism, Acute Stress, and Cardiovascular Health.” Archives of General Psychiatry, vol. 65, no. 1, 1 Jan. 2008, p. 73, 10.1001/archgenpsychiatry.2007.6. Accessed 31 Oct. 2019.
7. Khan, Aysha. “Seventeen Years after 9/11, Muslims Are Still ‘Presumed Guilty’.” Religion News Service, 13 Sept. 2018, https://religionnews.com/2018/09/10/seventeen-years-after-9-11-muslims-are-still-presumed-guilty/.
8. Miller, Steven E., et al. “After the 9/11 Disaster: Washington’s Struggle to Improve Homeland Security.” Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, https://www.belfercenter.org/publication/after-911-disaster-washingtons-struggle-improve-homeland-security.
9. [bookmark: _Hlk23379547]“The Museum | National September 11 Memorial & Museum.” 911memorial.Org, 2019, www.911memorial.org/visit/museum. Accessed 31 Oct. 2019.
10. O’Connor, Lydia. “This Is What It Was Like To Go To The Airport Before 9/11.” HuffPost Canada, HuffPost Canada, 11 Sept. 2016, www.huffpost.com/entry/airports-before-911_n_57c85e17e4b078581f11a133.
11. “Physical and Mental Health – 9/11 Health.” Nyc.Gov, 2009, www1.nyc.gov/site/911health/researchers/physical-and-mental-health.page.
12. Santhanam, Laura, and Larisa Epatko. “9/11 To Today: Ways We Have Changed.” PBS, Public Broadcasting Service, 11 Sept. 2018, https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/9-11-to-today-ways-we-have-changed.
13. Seaney, Rick. “9 Ways Airport Security Changed Since 9/11.” FareCompare, FareCompare L.P., 22 Aug. 2017, https://www.farecompare.com/travel-advice/9-ways-security-has-changed-since-911/.

The religion of Islam represents peace and submission, but why is that the religion of Islam is looked at as a threat? The actions of terrorist groups who claim to be practicing the religion have put a negative image on Muslims, and because of this image, the idea of Islamophobia has become a hot topic. This idea of Islamophobia has occurred due to misinterpretation and lack of knowledge of the religion Islam. The terrorist groups that identify as Muslims have revealed a negative image towards Islam, and this causes Islamophobia being the barrier for Muslims socially, emotionally and physically in regards to their everyday life.

Samantha Elauf, a 17-year-old Muslim woman was denied working at the brand Abercrombie and Fitch due to her headscarf. This action of denial has taken away Samantha’s equal employment opportunity. The hijab represents modesty and is worn for religious purposes. The hijab had drawn full attention to the company and refused to hire her, they claimed it violated the company’s dress code. The discrimination and prejudice brought upon the hijab bias because her opportunity to have a job she wanted was lost, and her physical appearance was the reason for this. The observance of Samantha’s faith which is Islam should not have prevented her from getting the job. This job denial contradicts the 1964 civil rights act, which ended segregation in public places and banned employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin.

Many Muslim women have stopped wearing their hijab to fit into society, which is very heartbreaking because Islamophobia has led to Muslim women letting go of the clothing that represents Islam and hides the beauty of the women. This unjust situation reveals that Islamophobia exists in job opportunities, and the hijab worn by Muslim women triggers discrimination.

Similarly, a 10-year old Muslim girl is a 5th grader at Hemenway Elementary was receiving death threats in letters found in her cubby at school. She received these letters for the simple reason because she was Muslim. The 10-year-old received 2 letters the first one said “you are a terrorist” and the second one said, “I will kill you”. The 10-year-old was crying and was scared, and she has the right to be scared. It is devastating to know that kids at this age have to experience discrimination for their religion and it is heartbreaking that children this young can learn to be discriminatory at an early age in life because hate is not brought from birth it is embedded in a human being by family or surroundings. It does not add up to be scared of someone for their religion to make a whole phobia but threats aren’t something that should be just as feared of. This can cause children not being able to express their religion or even be happy for their religion if they are being disliked so early in life. This affected the 10-year-old socially because her peers view her as “terrorist” she is viewed as something she is not, which will lead to isolation and disconnection to society. Islamophobia has been brought upon the younger generation and has taught children to view Islam as a threat.

Lastly, Muslim women named Aniso Abdulkadir and her friends have been allegedly attacked, and Aniso’s hijab was pulled off by a man in London, and also attacked one of her friends by pinning her to the wall. This man at Baker Street station not only forcefully attempted to remove Aniso Hijab, but he also verbally abused her friend and spit on her face. There are no words to describe this hateful incident that has occurred. It is disgusting and very foul to see a man commit these horrifying actions. Behavior like this is unacceptable and will not be tolerated because no one should be attacked for their physical appearance. This crime that was committed was because of the suicide bombing at a concert in Manchester that claimed 22 lives, and an attack in London by three terrorists, who drove a van into pedestrians and then went on a stabbing spree, killing eight people before being shot dead. Innocent Muslim people should not be punished for the poor decisions other Muslim people have made it is wrong. These innocent Muslim people have no control over other Muslim people’s decisions, therefore getting revenge for the attack that was committed by other Muslims should not be pinned on the innocent ones. Attacking Muslims like this makes them feel alienated and unprotected in their own home, it leads to a decrease in their everyday social life because people see the reputation of terrorism when viewing a Muslim. This takes away their opportunity of expressing themselves, having equal opportunity and a healthy social life. Islamophobia has taken away human sense from humans, increase hateful judgments, and caused crime.

In summary, Islamophobia has impacted how adults view Islam and how children view Islam, and with no knowledge of Islam. The media portrays the negatives about Islam which gives a bad image to Islam which is damaging and devaluing. The terrorist groups that Identify as Muslims have revealed a negative image towards Islam, and this causes Islamophobia being the barrier for Muslims socially, emotionally and physically in regards to their everyday life. Society needs to make changes because this is separating Muslims from the world, we should be unified. Islam should not be blamed for terrorism based on others’ irrational decisions because, “blaming Islam for terrorism is like blaming Christianity for colonialism; residential schools, slavery, patriarchy, genocide world wars, famine, and oppression”. These were all actions that were committed by people too instead society wants to hurt those who are different. What society must remember is that every religion has its extremists and others who have no control should not be punished. End Islamophobia.

One of the greatest analytical failures before the September 11, 2001 attacks was the belief that Osama bin Laden was content being a gadfly. The policymakers were sure that the man was only interested in making trouble abroad. Post-event analysis shows that there were indeed rumblings that his group would attack the homeland directly (Dahl, 2013). The decision makers at the time seem to have come to the conclusion that Osama and his motley crew was not capable of an attack on the American heartland. The failure in analytical processing directly led to the horrendous attack.

Secondly, there was the naive belief that Osama was just like other terrorists who had come before him, and there was no need to act rashly against him. In fact, the Clinton administration had argued against acting in a manner that would have elevated bin Laden’s status (Dahl, 2013). What the nation’s decision makers did not realize was that Osama was intent on making his own name. He was not like any the local terrorist in the Middle East: he had grand ambitions and the will to achieve his objectives. The lesson was learned the hard way in the form of thousands killed on 9/11.

Another significant failure in analysis at this time was how much support bin Laden was getting from both state and non-state actors. The US knew that Sudan was defiant. That meant that bin Laden and his people could hide in the country in relative safety (Posner, 2009). What the US underestimated were the networks on support bin Laden had in Saudi Arabia. The Saudis were and still are American allies, and many American officials chose not to come down hard on the kingdom. It turned out that most of the hijackers would be Saudis, and much of bin Laden’s money would come from the kingdom’s prominent citizens.

Another analytical failure was a failure of imagination. Up to that point, the US anti-terror system had dealt with improvised explosive devices. These would either be delivered by suicide bombers, be packaged in objects, or carried by vehicles. In Yemen, Al-Qaeda even used a boat to deliver explosives to the USS Cole’s side. The result was that the whole national security apparatus in the US was geared towards stopping bombings of different types. The country’s security experts could not conceive the idea that people could hijack a plane and ram it into buildings. The problem is that the incredulous nature of the attack continued to baffle intelligence analysts even after some of the details had been confirmed to them in early 2001. It seems there was a willful desire to avoid the matter and ignore it for as long as possible (Dahl, 2013). The powers that be appear to have decided that such an attack was too crazy for anyone to pull off. They allowed their lack of imagination to interfere with the decision-making loop. The result was that the terrorists were not stopped and the nation witnessed its worse terror attack ever. Finally, this inability to comprehend such a plot directly resulted in the US not doing enough to intercept the terror group that carried out the attack. There was a web of laws which made it difficult to go after foreign citizens in friendly countries. However, many of these laws derived their authority from executive orders (Posner, 2009). It would have been possible for the president to act unilaterally and deliver a fatal blow to Al-Qaeda before the group even got to the implementation stages. Instead, the policymakers continued to believe that the danger was overstated, and in the process they allowed the attack to occur.

The system itself was extremely inefficient and many doubt whether there was any political will to go after the terrorists. According to multiple officials, the end of the Cold War had lulled the whole national security apparatus into a sense of security. Policymakers looked at the evidence available to them and decided that they had to cut the intelligence and security budget. The belief was that the homeland was no longer in mortal danger and there was no need for such a massive infrastructure. The decision proved to be fatal for thousands of Americans.

The failure was especially visible in the lack of investment in human intelligence. Before the attack, records show that there was a deliberate move to shift the intelligence community’s focus from human to electronic intelligence. Millions of dollars were siphoned from human intelligence departments and funneled into research labs. The problem, as explained by intelligence officers then, was that electronic surveillance was never effective on its own. The system would break down if the terrorists chose to eschew every method of electronic communication. The shortcomings of the reliance on SIGINT were clear when the hijackers came into the US and lived relatively comfortably.

It is also critical to consider the fact that the political overlords at the time did consider the Central Intelligence Agency and its sister entities anachronisms of a past age. It was especially the case for the CIA’s operations department. Both sides of the political aisle seemed to believe that the days of old school espionage were over (Posner, 2009). It resulted in a stunning lack of investment in human assets. CIA officers say that they would often lack the money to pay their informants in the Middle East. This particular mistake allowed bin Laden to work in relative safety.

The lack of human intelligence assets also affected domestic intelligence gathering. A former top official at the Federal Bureau of Investigation asserts that he detected a lack of political will when it came to counter-terrorism. The lack of internal assets meant that a group of Saudis was able to take flying lessons without the national security apparatus noticing. One of the hijackers even told his instructor that he did not need to know how to land (Posner, 2009). All these red flags were missed because there was no real structure. The failures became apparent on the morning of September 11, 2001.

Summing up, the reality is that the chain of analytical failures reflected a deep erosion of capacity on the part of the American national security apparatus. The analysts on the payroll were evidently not skilled or imaginative enough to comprehend the threat. Additionally, there was a sense that the homeland was safe and America only had to worry about its assets abroad. Intelligence agencies were also largely considered superfluous as the Cold War ended. The reduced political and financial investment directly led to the failures which resulted in the nightmare on 9/11. The records are clear: the great disaster could have been prevented.

Introduction

Hunter S. Thompson, known for his unique style of gonzo journalism, was an influential writer and social commentator. His writings often provided a critical analysis of contemporary events and issues. In the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Thompson’s perspectives and insights on the event and its implications were notable. This informative essay explores Hunter S. Thompson’s response to 9/11, examining his observations, criticisms, and the broader context in which his views emerged.

I. Thompson’s Initial Reaction

In the immediate aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, Thompson expressed shock, anger, and a sense of bewilderment. His initial response reflected the general sentiment of the nation, with many grappling to comprehend the magnitude and implications of the tragedy. Thompson’s raw emotions and visceral language captured the collective outrage and grief that engulfed the nation.

II. Criticisms of the Government

Thompson was known for his skepticism toward political institutions, and his response to 9/11 was no exception. He criticized the government’s handling of the event, raising questions about intelligence failures, the decision to invade Iraq, and the erosion of civil liberties through the Patriot Act. Thompson viewed these actions as a betrayal of the principles of democracy and individual freedom that he held dear.

III. Media Coverage and Fearmongering

Thompson’s analysis also focused on the media’s role in shaping public perception and the manipulation of fear in the aftermath of 9/11. He criticized the sensationalism and jingoism displayed by some media outlets, arguing that it fueled a climate of fear and paranoia. Thompson believed that objective reporting gave way to propaganda, hindering the public’s ability to critically engage with the events unfolding around them.

IV. Cultural and Societal Impact

Thompson explored the cultural and societal implications of 9/11, particularly in relation to American identity and the erosion of civil liberties. He questioned the narratives of heroism and the glorification of war, urging readers to consider the long-term consequences of a perpetual state of war on the nation’s psyche. Thompson’s writings challenged the prevailing narrative of blind patriotism, advocating for a more nuanced and critical understanding of the complexities involved.

V. Legacy and Continuing Relevance

Thompson’s critical perspective on 9/11 continues to resonate in contemporary discussions about the event and its aftermath. His writings serve as a reminder to question authority, challenge the status quo, and maintain a vigilant eye on the erosion of civil liberties. Thompson’s observations provide a valuable historical and cultural lens through which we can reflect on the lasting impact of 9/11 on American society.

Conclusion

Hunter S. Thompson’s response to the 9/11 attacks was characterized by skepticism, criticism, and a call to remain vigilant in the face of power and authority. His writings on the event offered a unique perspective that challenged the dominant narratives and encouraged readers to engage critically with the complexities of the post-9/11 world. Thompson’s legacy as a social commentator and writer continues to inspire readers to question, analyze, and challenge prevailing beliefs, ensuring that the lessons and discussions prompted by 9/11 remain relevant and thought-provoking.

Nobody knows how different the world would be today if, on September 11, 2001, the World Trade Center didn’t fall, or was even attacked at all. The World Trade Center in New York City was built in 1973. Both buildings had 110 stories and were home to about 50,000 workers and 200,000 daily visitors. It was the heart of the busy financial district, was a popular tourist interest, and also a symbol of the U.S.’s commitment to progress for the future. Prior to the attacks, the U.S. had many different relations with other countries than it did after. Relations with Saudis were good in some aspects due to their anti-communist beliefs and oil trade, but bad in other ways such as their feelings toward Israel. Also, the U.S. had poor relations with Iraq, fairly poor with the Soviet Union, and fair with Pakistan before 9/11. The terrorist attacks that occurred in New York City on September 11, 2001, were to this day the most devastating terrorist attack on American soil in U.S. history. One of the most significant results that occurred because of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, was the creation of problematic relations for the U.S. with foreign countries and organizations.

The attacks on 9/11 caused many problems between Saudi Arabia and the U.S. One of the first major issues that began shortly after the attacks is a result of the 28 pages. The 28-page controversy began to arise when the final section of a report relating to 9/11 conducted by the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence was created in December 2002. This part of the report called the 28 pages summarizes skeptical leads suggesting viable financial, logistical, and other information provided to the hijackers and allies by Saudi officials and others accused of being Saudi agents. The 28 pages are in a report named Finding, Discussion, and Narrative Regarding Certain Sensitive Narrative Matters, which hasn’t ever been published. Problems first began because the U.S. Congress was brainstorming laws that would allow the families of victims of the attacks to sue Saudi Arabia over possible connections with al-Qaeda terrorists who acted in the attacks on 9/11. However, the Saudi’s reaction to this was to consider selling off $750 billion of American holdings if the bill gets passed by Congress (Sengupta, 1). It was later announced by President Bush that the 28 pages would negatively affect America’s national security by exposing sources and systems that would make it difficult for the U.S. to win the War on Terror, so it was announced by White House Officials that eventually some of the 28 pages would be declassified for the public to see, but not all of it. However, the released pages would still negatively affect Saudi Arabia, so Saudi officials attempted to cover up the pages. Rudy Giuliani, the past mayor of New York, claimed that a Saudi Prince had given him a check for $10 million in an effort to persuade him to deflect attention away from his Kingdom. The mayor said he returned the check after tearing it up. Mayor Giuliani said he wanted the American people to know what the role of the Saudi Arabian government was in the attacks and how they were entitled to know who killed all 3,000 of the people and who injured nearly 6,000. Major questions still being asked are Did these 19 people conduct this very sophisticated plot alone, or were they supported? Who was the most likely entity to have provided them with that support? Many officials think all the evidence points to Saudi Arabia and think it covers a broad range of people from the highest ranks of the Kingdom to private entities. The allegations of Saudi involvement in the attacks come against a background of the very conservative Kingdom’s funding violent Islamist groups. This continued with accusations that the Saudis have supplied money and arms to the most extreme of the rebels fighting the regime of Bashar al-Assad in Syria.

9/11 was the most significant act of terrorism that has ever taken place on American soil and is known as, “the defining event of our time”. The event not only shook and traumatized the witnesses of the attacks but all the citizens of the United States as well as thousands of other people around the world. The events resulted in 2,996 people killed 6,000 others injured and $10 billion worth of infrastructure and property damaged, greatly impacting America’s economy as well as thousands of people’s mental state and changing America’s security systems and safety precautions forever. The events that took place on the morning of September 11th, 2001, have changed the perspective people have on the world forever.

The attacks took place on the 11th of September 2001 when 19 militants belonging to the Al Qaeda terrorist group boarded and then hijacked four planes from different locations across the East Coast of America. 3 of the hijacked planes hit their targets, World Trade Centre 1 and World Trade Centre 2 in New York City were hit by the first two planes and the third plane hit the Pentagon in Washington DC. The fourth plane was intended to hit the White House but crashed in a field after the passengers took control of the plane from the Hijackers.

9/11 had a major economic impact on the United States as well as many surrounding countries. Each building that was struck on September 11, 2001, were all buildings that was a symbol of American Financial power. Al Qaeda’s motive was to push any kind of foreign power or influence out of Muslim countries and they felt they would be successful in doing so by attacking one of the most influential and economic powers in the world, a country they felt extremely nave towards– the United States of America. Not only did America lose $10 billion worth of infrastructure from the attacks but $123 billion was lost over the 2-4 weeks after the towers collapsed, $40 billion was the cost of an emergency anti-terrorism package, $15 billion was the value of the Aid package to bail out the airlines and $9.3 billion worth of insurance claims were made. 1,464 insurance claims were made across New York amounting to $8.2 billion worth and 130,000 employees were laid off across the United States. The ‘September 11 Victim Compensation Fund’ was created in order to supply financial assistance for the victims of the attacks as well as the families of the victims of the attacks.

The terrible events that took place had a huge mental as well as emotional impact on many, many people. Paranoia and anxiety were generated surrounding any future terrorist attacks which led to major cultural impacts on the entire world. Society began to develop a deeper focus on home life as well as religion leading church attendance rates to rise after the events. Certain songs were played on the radio that paid homage to the attacks and films, television, music, and literature were also influenced by the attacks. Any movies or TV shows that were in the process of being made that depicted the World Trade Center had to be re-edited before release. The rate of blood donations rose by 2.5x the week after the terrible events that took place. Psychological studies showed that higher rates of clinical behavioral issues were found in Preschool children across New York. Based on studies, PTSD and Depression rates rose higher after the attacks and many children who lost parents in the attacks grew up to suffer from depression and self-harm later on in their life. Airports around the US were shut down after the attacks which led many travelers to be left stranded, Many Canadian households opened up their homes for any stranded people, and animal cruelty prevention societies were opened up. Unfortunately, many people’s perception of particular races was altered after the events that took place, and the following weeks after the attacks led to an increase in intense harassment and hate crimes towards South Asians, Middle Easterns, and anyone thought to be associated with the “Middle Eastern” look.

Following 9/11, the United States government vigorously attempted to build a stricter American foreign policy and to address terrorism to their abilities in fear of similar events happening in the future. Military operations, economic pressures, and political pressures were all increased after the attacks and airports especially became more intense. Luggage screening became the center focus of airport security after the Al Qaeda group members were easily able to sneak through airport security with baggage full of weaponry without any suspicion. Airport customs workers were now legally able to break and enter into personal luggage to check for any dangerous or suspicious content from inside the bag. Not only did security at airports intensify but iconic locations all around New York City now have intense security systems that must be passed before entering these particular buildings to prevent future disasters. An international military campaign named, ‘War on Terrorism’ was launched by the United States government as a reaction to the 9/11 attacks. The ‘War on Terror’ campaign was announced by then US President George Bush on September 20th, 2001. In a conference with the nation, President Bush made the statement, “Our war on terror begins with al Qaeda, but it does not end there. It will not end until every terrorist group of global reach has been found, stopped, and defeated.”, declaring war on the Middle East. The war began on October 7th, 2001, and by May 2nd, 2011 Osama Bin Laden (the leader of Al Qaeda) was killed by the U.S. Special Forces.

“If we learn nothing else from this tragedy, we learn that life is short and there is no time for hate.” —Sandy Dahl, wife of Flight 93 pilot Jason Dahl. After 9/11 there was an increased presence of racism against Muslims. Throughout America there were many people who thought all Muslims were bad. Racial profiling after 9/11 affected society by changing the way people viewed each other.

September eleventh is the day the whole United States remembers as 9/11: the day four planes were hijacked and crashed on United States soil. Years prior to the attack, Osam Bin Laden thought that America was weak. Bin Laden believed thought that america was much weaker than what others thought. Khalid Sheikh Mohammed originally planned to blow up some of a dozen American planes in Asia in the mid-1990s but his plan failed, Khalid’s dream never went away though and it was passed over to the hands of Osama Bin Laden. Now that Khalid Sheikh Mohammed’s idea was in Osama Bin Laden’s hands, Khalid believed that he would finally have a chance. The aftermath of 9/11 had 2,750 people killed in New York, 184 at the Pentagon, and 40 in a field in Pennsylvania (Bergen 1).

The attacks of 9/11 released a huge wave of Muslim hatred in the united states. After the attack, not only did about 3,000 people die, but racial profiling took a new level now targeting Muslims. Racial profiling has been around as long as there have been different races. Since 9/11, people who look muslim have been pointed out and gotten alot of attention in airports. In 2012, six Sikhs ,who are often mistaken as Muslims, were shot up in a service in their temple. The rate of anti-Muslim hate crimes is about five times higher than before 2001. Many of the mosques around the country were targeted destruction and vandalism. Some government officials have made unnecessary bans of Islamic law to make fear and anger against Muslims (“History of Racial Injustice”1).

After 9/11, airports got more serious with their security. Now when traveling you must show your identification to make sure your name matches your ticket. Most travelers have to remove their shoes when they reach certain security checkpoints. All baggage must be screened. No liquids are allowed through security if it’s in a container larger than 3.4 ounces. Most travelers have to remove their outerwear while they go through screening. The Department of Homeland Security was created after 9/11 (Bergen 1).

Works Cited

1. Bornstein, Avram. ‘Antiterrorist Policing in New York City After 9/11: Comparing Perspectives on a Complex Process.’ Human Organization, vol. 64, no. 1, 2005, pp. 52-61. ProQuest, https://search.proquest.com/docview/201035464?accountid=41449, doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.17730/humo.64.1.mf00296tl98bk2l5.
2. Jones, Rachel B., PhD. ‘Intolerable Intolerance: Toxic Xenophobia and Pedagogy of Resistance.’ The High School Journal, vol. 95, no. 1, 2011, pp. 34-45. ProQuest, https://search.proquest.com/docview/906522979?accountid=41449.
3. “History of Racial Injustice: Violence Against Muslims After 9/11.” Equal Justice Initiative, Eji, https://eji.org/history-racial-injustice-violence-against-muslims-after-9-11.
4. Kaur, Anumita. “Hate and Discrimination in the Wake of September 11.” Center for American Progress, Center for American Progres, 15 Sept. 2016, https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/race/news/2016/09/15/144286/hate-and-discrimination-in-the-wake-of-september-11/.
5. Tindongan, Cynthia W. ‘Negotiating Muslim Youth Identity in a Post-9/11 World.’The High School Journal, vol. 95, no. 1, 2011, pp. 72-87. ProQuest, https://search.proquest.com/docview/906523177?accountid=41449.
6. Bergen, Peter L. “September 11 Attacks.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., 24 Oct. 2019, https://www.britannica.com/event/September-11-attacks.

Introduction

The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, commonly known as 9/11, were a pivotal moment in modern history. This cause and effect essay aims to explore the factors that led to the tragic events of 9/11 and examine the profound consequences that unfolded in its aftermath. Understanding the causes and effects of 9/11 is essential to comprehend the significant changes in global security, politics, and society that have shaped the world in the years following the attacks.

Causes of 9/11

Ideological Extremism and Terrorism

The primary cause of 9/11 lies in the ideology of extremist groups such as Al-Qaeda, led by Osama bin Laden. These terrorist organizations held a radical interpretation of Islam and perceived the United States and its allies as their enemies. Their goal was to incite fear, disrupt global stability, and advance their own ideological agenda through acts of violence.

Historical Context and Foreign Policy

The historical context of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East also played a significant role in the lead-up to 9/11. The presence of American military forces in Saudi Arabia, support for Israel, and perceived interference in the region’s affairs fueled anti-American sentiments among extremist groups. These grievances, coupled with a desire to retaliate against perceived injustices, contributed to the motivation behind the attacks.

Effects of 9/11

Heightened Global Security Measures

The immediate aftermath of 9/11 led to a paradigm shift in global security. Governments worldwide implemented stringent measures to prevent future terrorist attacks. Increased airport security, intelligence sharing, and the establishment of new counter-terrorism agencies became standard practices. The War on Terror, launched by the United States, saw military interventions and heightened surveillance efforts to combat terrorism globally.

Changes in Foreign Policy and Geopolitical Landscape

The attacks on 9/11 had far-reaching effects on U.S. foreign policy and the geopolitical landscape. The United States shifted its focus to combating terrorism and pursued military actions in Afghanistan and Iraq. The invasion of Iraq, based on erroneous intelligence linking the country to terrorism, resulted in prolonged conflicts and further destabilization in the region. The aftermath of 9/11 reshaped alliances, strained international relations, and influenced subsequent military interventions.

Impact on Civil Liberties and Domestic Policies

The events of 9/11 had a profound impact on civil liberties and domestic policies, particularly in the United States. The passage of the USA PATRIOT Act expanded the government’s surveillance powers, leading to debates about the balance between security and individual privacy. Racial profiling and discrimination against Muslim communities increased, raising concerns about the erosion of civil rights.

Social and Cultural Shifts

9/11 brought about significant social and cultural shifts, including increased awareness of and sensitivity toward Islam and the Muslim community. Prejudice, stereotypes, and Islamophobia emerged, leading to a rise in hate crimes and strained interfaith relations. The attacks also fostered a sense of national unity and resilience, as communities came together to support one another in the face of tragedy.

Conclusion

The causes and effects of 9/11 continue to shape our world today. The attacks were fueled by ideological extremism and grievances arising from foreign policies and historical events. The consequences of 9/11 include heightened global security measures, changes in foreign policy, impacts on civil liberties, and shifts in social and cultural dynamics.

While the tragedy of 9/11 cannot be undone, it is crucial to learn from this event to prevent future acts of terrorism and to promote peace and understanding among nations and cultures. The lessons of 9/11 serve as a reminder of the need for international cooperation, effective counter-terrorism strategies, and the protection of civil liberties in the face of evolving global threats.