“Recognising Islamophobia means choosing understanding over silence and compassion over politics.”
During Islamophobia Awareness Month, we reflect not just on prejudice, but on faith, community, and belonging. For many students, faith is more than a private practice; it grounds us, shapes how we study, interact, and lead, and gives purpose in both challenges and successes.
This year’s theme, Flip the Script, encourages challenging one-dimensional narratives about Muslim communities. Too often, discrimination is amplified while achievements, creativity, and contributions go unnoticed. Flipping the script means broadening the story and celebrating the everyday realities of Muslim students.
Islamophobia or Anti-Muslim hate remains a serious issue. Incidents earlier this year reminded us how quickly anti-Muslim hostility can emerge. Yet solidarity across communities shows that hatred has no place on campus. Real change, however, requires long-term commitment, education, and support for Muslim students and staff.
University of Salford’s definition describes Islamophobia as discrimination, intolerance, hostility, or fear directed towards Muslims or those perceived to be Muslim. It can appear as abuse, stereotyping, exclusion, or policies that fail to consider Muslim experiences. In higher education, this can affect wellbeing, confidence, and sense of belonging.
Flip the Script reminds us that everyone has a role. Call out stereotypes, celebrate achievements, engage with Islamic heritage, attend IAM events, or ask questions respectfully. Small actions, repeated across the community, can shift culture.
At Salford SU, we support Muslim students by:
Guidance for Societies and Students:
Islamophobia Awareness Month asks us to reflect on challenges, but also on the strength and contributions of our Muslim community. Together, we can shift the narrative and build a campus where everyone belongs.