Muslims in Australia are three times likely to be victims of racism as compared to other religions, according to a new study.
A survey conducted in Sydney involving 600 Muslims revealed that a substantial 57% of respondents had experienced racism in some form.
The survey’s lead author, Kevin Dunn explained, “Because of things that are happening in the world and the various representations of Muslims… some people unfortunately feel more emboldened to say things and do things which are prejudicial and which are hurtful towards Muslims.”
The survey which was conducted by Western Sydney University, Charles Sturt University and the Islamic Sciences and Research Academy also revealed that unemployment in respondents is 8.5% higher than the Sydney average of 3.7%. Further, of the 600 Muslims surveyed nearly 62% had experienced racism in the workplace or in quest of a job.
However, Dunn emphasised that there is a “strong sense of belonging” that many Muslims feel in Australia, notwithstanding the rise in Islamophobia. Moreover, 86% of the respondents believe that relations between Australian Muslims and non-Muslims were friendly.
Nine in 10 Muslims who took part in the study said it was important their children be accepted as Australians, and two-thirds said they mixed socially with non-Muslims, according to the Guardian.