MUSLIMS IN THE UK (ETHNIC MINORITY)

Muslims in the UK (Ethnic Minority)

Muslims in the UK (Ethnic Minority)

Introduction

There is increasing recognition in the UK that social science research should generate an evidence base that reflects the ethnic diversity of the population and informs positive developments in public policy and programmes for all. However, describing and understanding ethnic diversity, and associated disadvantage, is far from straightforward. In practice, the ethical and scientific arguments around whether and how to incorporate ethnicity into policy-relevant social research are complex and contentious. In particular, untheorised or insensitive inclusion of data on ethnic 'groups' can have negative consequences.

There is currently insufficient protection for Muslims in the UK. Unlike some minority groups, like Sikhs and Jews, Muslims are not protected under the Race Relations Act 1976 or the more recent Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000. New legislation to implement the EU Employment Framework Directive in the UK will mean that Muslims will, for the first time, be protected against religious discrimination in the sphere of employment. However, this new legislation will not extend to other social policy areas as is the case with existing race, sex and disability legislation.

History of Muslim in Britain

The number of Muslims in Britain is generally put at around 1.5 million, though some community groups suggest it could be nearer two million.

Perhaps half came originally from Pakistan, with the Middle East and North Africa accounting for around a quarter. Several hundred thousand originated in Bangladesh, with India also contributing significant numbers.

The largest Muslim communities are in Greater London, the West Midlands, West Yorkshire, Lancashire and central Scotland. Most belong to the Sunni tradition of Islam, which accounts for 90% of Muslims worldwide. Only a small proportion of British Muslims are Shi'as.

All Muslims affirm the oneness of God. They believe that all power belongs to Him (who they name Allah); they believe in His prophets and angels, in the books that He has revealed, in the Day of Judgement and in life after death.

Problems Faced by Muslims in UK

Muslims in general can face numerous issues involving discrimination in countries where they are the minority. For teenagers this issue is magnified tenfold. We all know young people can be harsher and less diplomatic when it comes to expressing their thoughts. While adults are more likely to be hateful behind closed doors the young often bring these issues violently to the forefront. The sad fact is that atrocities committed by extremists have colored much of the world's view of Islam. It saddens me to see that obvious racism against anyone with brown skin is not only tolerated but encouraged in my country of America. We openly disparage most racist remarks against black and Hispanic people but allow hate filled people to rage against Muslims with no comment.

Discrimination

Terrorist attacks have now hit every First World Country. Foreign embassies, subway stations and many other landmarks have been hit for some time now. America thought it was unique in this regard until the atrocity ...