What Americans Really Think About Muslim Americans

Available data indicates that Americans are increasingly leery of Muslim Americans and that they do not view Muslim communities as part of mainstream society. And since 2015 there has been an alarming increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes across the country.

In order to better understand these problems, New America, in collaboration with the American Muslim Institution, has commissioned a national survey to explore the general public's perceptions of Muslim Americans. The survey was conducted and completed in the lead up to the midterm elections in November 2018.

The survey makes it possible to discuss perceptions of Muslim Americans with a shared set of facts. Are myths and misinformation about Muslim Americans growing? Is there a difference between national perceptions of Muslim Americans and local perceptions? Where are myths and misinformation at their most pernicious and threatening?

The panel discussion will center on the survey's findings and it will offer fresh insights about the general public's perceptions of Muslim Americans.

Opening Remarks:

Mark Schmitt, @mschmitt9
Director, Political Reform Program and Senior Advisor, Leadership Team, New America

Amb. Islam Siddiqui President, American Muslim Institution, and former Chief Agricultural Negotiator with the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

Survey Findings Presentation:

Robert L. McKenzie, @Bobby_McKenzie
Director and Senior Fellow, New America

Participants:

Shafiq Khan, @AMInstitution
Board Member, American Muslim Institution

Robert L. McKenzie, @Bobby_McKenzie
Director and Senior Fellow, New America

Moderator:

Hannah Allam, @HannahAllam
National Reporter, BuzzFeed News

Light refreshments will be served.

Follow the conversation online using #MuslimAmerica and following@NewAmerica.