The Jan. 7 terrorist attack on the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo
The Jan. 7 terrorist attack on the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo was an outrageous affront to journalism and free speech that prompted the Asian American Journalists Association to stand in solidarity with other organizations in support of freedom of expression. In the aftermath of the Paris attack, we have also grown concerned about media coverage that has relied on weak sources, assumption and ill-equipped analysts to spread misinformation about Islam and Muslims.
Some journalists have falsely criticized Muslims and Muslim organizations for failing to denounce the attack and other acts of terror, even though renowned Muslim organizations and institutions around the globe have been outspoken in their condemnation of the violence. Others have argued that Muslims support the violence. News organizations have also relied on experts who have spread misinformation about Islam and Muslims in Europe, including one expert who later apologized for completely misinforming viewers with baseless statements about sharia law and Muslim rule in the city of Birmingham, England.
In an effort to promote fair and accurate coverage of Islam and Muslims, AAJA is providing these resources to journalists. We encourage media professionals to consult legitimate experts and Muslim organizations before making statements about the faith and its followers that could serve to perpetuate division, misunderstanding and discrimination or serve as a basis for hate crimes.
QUICK FACTS ABOUT ISLAM:
What is the difference between Islam and Muslim?
Islam is the religion. Muslims are people who follow Islam.
Are most Arabs Muslim?
Despite popular belief, only 18 percent of the world’s Muslim population is of Arab descent.
Where do Muslims live?
About 60 percent of Muslims are in Asia, and Indonesia has the world’s largest Muslim population. About 20 percent of the world’s Muslims are in the Middle East or North Africa. The U.S. Census Bureau does not collect data on religions, but most estimates say 6 million Muslims live in the United States — about 2 percent of the population.
Why are depictions of the prophet Muhammad controversial?
In recent centuries, many Muslims have come to view visual representations of the prophet, who was a man not a god, as a form of idolatry.
Is the Islamic State militant group related to Islam?
The group, also known by the abbreviations ISIS and ISIL, has been widely condemned by Muslim organizations and religious leaders as terrorists.
http://www.aaja.org/islam-and-muslims/