Muslims Cadets Increasing at West Point

Im writing today primarily in response to the CBS article “Ranks Of West Point Muslims Grow“.   As a veteran of the United States Marine Corps myself, I don’t really see this as news per se, but more so a recognition of that which already exists.  Im ordinarily not one, who goes around pointing out the fact that I belong to this group or that group, so therefore my service as a member of said group should be recognized, however given the climate of the very real Islamaphobic hysteria that currently exists in our Country, I believe we should point out the role American Muslims play in our society.  I believe that by pointing out the fact that there are American Muslims in the Armed Forces that are also fighting in the “War on Terror” this may at least change some minds and hearts, as hopefully, people will see that we are just as Patriotic, Law abiding, citizens, etc.  as the next guy.

The propaganda that is spread against Muslims and Islam in general, likes to box us off as some seperate bloc or entity, that exists within America yet outside America, who wants to destroy America and the West.  This is so far from the truth, that the mere fact that I feel compelled to refute these claims is sickening. 

However, its going to take many more articles like this one, to help dispel the allegations.  Especially when on that very same site, you can read intolerant comments like this:

“This is a HUGE HUGE BLUNDER!

We should be looking to destroy the islamic insanity, it signs and symbols within the US especially!

The last thing the US needs is US armed and US military-trained maniac muslims, especially when we are doing so within the US itself.

Seems like the older we get, the more STUPID we get as a nation and the more inclined to repeat blunders?

Read my lips: We may give HUMANITARIAN assistance to fellow humans.
However, the United State of America should NEVER EVER give arms and military training of any kind to muslims, EVER!
Safety first!

We have given military training to muslims and are now paying a deadly price from Afghanistan and Pakistan.

We need to take into account the fact that
MUSLIMS ARE THE ONLY GROUP ON THE PLANET THAT ARE INTENT AND COMMITTED TO THE DESTRUCTION OF THE USA AND ITS CITIZENS!

AGAIN, SAFETY FIRST! ”

It doesnt just end there:

“I’m curious, are there any positive examples of Muslims reaching out to help others (non-Muslims) that anyone can credibly site?

In the interest of humanity, can you also site what contributions Muslims have made to science, medicine or other invention for the betterment of mankind?

What is positive about the saying “Death to America?”

Why should America remain accepting to all Muslims after 9/11? Is the Jihad over? “

Both of these comments were posted December 18th on that site.  It is very disturbing that people still feel this way.  The hate and blood lust against Islam and Muslims is real in America and its about time we recognize it and call it out. 

As a veteran who served this Nation Honorably, it truly hurts that often I feel as if my service, loyalty, and honor is questioned, by fellow Americans, many of whom never wore the uniform.  But hey, I served so they might have the right to be intolerant bigots….gotta love America. 

To me, what Muslims in the Armed forces are currently dealing with, is reminiscent to the days when Black Soldiers were heroes outside the country during war, but came back just to be treated as another nigger. (And yes, I used that word)  The blunt and oft ugly truth is that Muslims in general, and especially in America are the new niggers, for some of us, we are now double niggers because of our skin color and now religion, for others, this is a whole new experience altogether.

Now, I didnt want to get all “controversial” in this post, but sometimes, my feelings just begin to flow as I write.  We have to realize that America has serious racial issues.  Most racists today just cover their motives, intentions, and feelings under political window dressing to confuse the masses.  Its not so apparent these days as it was for my grandfather, but its still the same.  This hate against Muslims and Islam is so repulsive and disgusting, that the racist now finds “neat” little ways to cover it up.  The two blankets used are 9/11 and “The War on Terror”.  These blankets have been given such a huge pass that all a bigot has to do is use those two phrases to context his/her hate, and automatically the rest is ignored.

Granted, my comments today are several posts in one, but I just wanted to point out how repulsed I am on so many levels.  These West Point Cadets are serving this Country period.  These are men and women of honor, who by the way, have been accepted into the most prestigious Military institution in the Country, besides the Naval Academy (Go Navy!), and are going to be future leaders in the Army.  How dare these e-cowards, for spitting on their service!

I pray that one day SOON, a voice and a movement will arise, not just to defend Islam and Muslims, but to destroy the Satanic mindset that produces the intolerance and hate that is Islamaphobia.

I have decided to “elevate” my voice and I have purchased a domain:  http://www.theAmericanMuslim.net .  Its a work in progress, but Insha’Allah, it will be a website dedicated to the American Muslim experience.  I ask that every able bodied American Muslim that reads these words please contact me at abdur_salaam@hotmail.com to formulate a plan to make this website one of the great resources to speak our voice.  I intend to link to articles, websites, blogs, and any other medium so that others can hear our voice, and we can share our experiences.  I also intend to raise contributions to go directly to charity.

I pray that Allah (swt) gives us peace but most importantly guidance in these dark times.