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    Al Jumuah MagazineAl Jumuah Magazine
    Home»Advice»Society»From White Privilege to American Muslim Minority
    Society

    From White Privilege to American Muslim Minority

    danielle loducaBy danielle loduca10 Mins Read
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    Summary

    This article reflects on a white American Muslim woman’s experiences after visibly adopting Islamic dress, discussing challenges related to prejudice, identity, and stereotypes, while highlighting increased empathy, humility, solidarity with minorities, and responsibility in representing Islam.

    FOR MOST OF my life, as a member of the privileged, “white” majority of Americans, I didn’t have to consider the color of my skin, or how the public perceived me. I always felt “normal” – not realizing my advantage nor that my privileges were nonstandard for others. I may have appeared eccentric in the early years after I became Muslim: long sleeve shirts in summer, loose clothing, no makeup, hair unflatteringly pulled back into a bun… but I was still a white girl, able to fly under the radar. It’s this scarf on my head that changed things. Finally adopting full coverage took a long time. I knew subconsciously that I would no longer move through the world unnoticed. I’d be judged. I’d be mistaken for a foreigner; and that’s exactly what happened. Browsing at a local garage sale with my grandmother years ago, her neighbor approached from behind. My grandmother introduced me casually, “This is my granddaughter, Danielle.” The neighbor gasped. “No!” She stuttered, covering her gaping mouth.  “I… thought you were… some foreigner!” However, not everyone assumes I am foreign. Apparently, my face is still familiar enough to utterly perplex some people. Like the petite grey-haired cashier who peered at me as I waited in line, her expression twisted in confusion. When I reached the register she blurted out, “Are you American???” “Yes…” My answer provided no relief. “So what’s that thing??” She asked, clumsily gesturing around her head. “Uh… I’m American and Muslim…?” Unfortunately, too many believe those two terms are mutually exclusive. I lost some (not all) of my white privilege the day I decided to visually display my Islam everywhere I go, but I have to say, I enjoy the pros more than I regret the cons. Let’s compare:

    The Cons:

    If I’m Not Presentable, All Muslims Look Bad

    Back when I was in art school, I could walk around with paint on my pants, dirty work clothes, the same clothes for days, and no one would associate my unkemptness with my whiteness, or blame my religion or ethnicity for my lack of cleanliness. Now if I am the least bit disheveled or mismatched, I know my entire religion will be implicated.

    Too Fast = Crazy Muslim

    I’m an aggressive driver (haram, I know) but if I happen to annoy another driver now, their road rage might come with a side of extreme prejudice.

    Too Slow = Stupid Foreigner

    As a new Muslim, I literally drove 30mph because Islam encourages caution, and respect for the laws of the land. People honked at me so often that I eventually had to speed up. I know ‘slow’ is often associated with stupid – I’m not about to be the one to give any bigot the pleasure of uttering such an insult when it involves Islam and my ummah.

    I Feel out of Place amongst My Own People

    I have come to realize that the whiter the venue, the more likely I am to be judged as an outsider – even though I’m plenty “white” and even my grandparents were born in America.

    My Family Becomes Less-White Just By Walking With Me

    When I go out with my non-Muslim family members, they automatically lose some of their white privilege just by being with me. They have never complained, but it stinks to be shocked that your sister actually wants to go to the mall with you.

    From Ordinary to Suspect

    I used to be the average girl next door, now in the minds of some, I might be the potential terrorist next door. I probably should think twice before shopping online and receiving possibly ‘suspicious’ deliveries.

    Does He Beat You?

    Yes, I’ve been asked if my husband beats me. My neighbors in the early part of my marriage studied me suspiciously. One of them said to another, “I can tell her husband is good from her smile.”

    I Must be Dumb/I Converted for my Husband

    Nope. I used my brain, thank you very much. I happened to get married years later, but even people whose conversion coincided with their marriage had to do an awful lot of learning and soul searching to make such a momentous decision.

    Even Muslims Ask me Where I’m From

    White Americans can be Muslim too! Allah said:

    This (Quran) is direction and guidance for the whole world. [Sûrat Ṣâd, 38:87]

    Let’s stop perpetuating the notion that Islam is only for foreigners!

    Forever Thought of as “New”

    Come on guys, the Sahaba were all converts! I appreciate your intention to help, but it takes quite a bit of research to be willing to turn your whole family and world upside down to become Muslim. More than reprimands, converts long to feel fraternity. Allah said:

    The believers are but brothers. [Sûrat Ghâfir, 49:10]

    And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided. And remember the favor of Allah upon you – when you were enemies and He brought your hearts together and you became, by His favor, brothers. [Sûrat Âl Imrân, 3:103]

    Let’s remember we are trying to hold on, together. And now for the positives: In addition to the unimaginable happiness and peace I’ve been blessed with via Islam, I’ve experienced quite a few benefits as a result of not being blissfully ignorant about white privilege anymore.

    The Pros:

    I’m a Flag-Bearer Now

    Being aware that I represent more than myself when I go out – I represent Islam, I am more concerned about being presentable, clean, and in general, well behaved –Islam promotes all of the above, anyway. It’s a responsibility and an honor.

    Down to Earth

    I’m no longer in the clouds and oblivious of the rich diversity in our country. I feel an affection and solidarity with minorities now. We all share a certain “otherness,” and unspoken connection. It’s a lovely camaraderie that is new to me and I greatly appreciate it.

    Broader Horizons

    My Muslim family is global and multi ethnic. I now enjoy having friends and sisters in faith from every background you can think of. Every time I look around a gathering of my Muslim friends or a congregation in the masjid, I thank Allah for making me a part of this diverse family.

    Far Less Racism

    Many people I know are in bi-racial/multi-ethnic marriages. When I get together with Muslims, it’s always a mix of races/ethnicities and I don’t hear any nonsense or micro-aggression about race anymore. Racism is not entirely eradicated from today’s Muslim community, but I find far less than in the general US population.

    Empathy and an Inclination for Social Justice

    I’m more in touch with the struggles and reality minorities live with in this country. Being “white,” I had virtually no idea that my life was different from the lives of people of color or religious minorities. It’s eye opening, sobering and I’m a more conscientious, compassionate person because of it.

    I’ve Become an Instant Emissary

    I can use my whiteness to bridge the gap and help white people understand that Islam is not just for “foreigners” or people from other cultural backgrounds.

    I’m a Human Pep Talk for Muslims

    As a result of centuries of colonization and aggression by western powers, some Muslims have an inferiority complex. They try to adopt western behaviors and hide their Islam as if their heritage is a shame. White Muslims like me are proof to them that Islam is a precious gem. With the rise in depression and drug addiction, I know that so many Americans would do anything to have what we have – if they just knew about it.

    Humility

    Being part of a global community puts things into perspective: none of us are inherently worth more than anyone else.

    My Kids Will Grow Up More Conscientious Than I Was

    My kids are being raised to be aware of racism and discrimination. I can already see that they have a great sense of justice and intolerance for inequality.

    Strength

    Because I’m no longer 100% part of the dominating party, I have to be strong, self confident and willing to assert myself. In many ways I still benefit greatly from the white privilege I was born with. While many Muslims (especially women) have suffered micro aggression, verbal and even physical assaults, I have had virtually zero negative experiences because of my faith/appearance. This may be due, in part, to the fact that my appearance causes some confusion. People can’t quite be sure if I’m foreign, Muslim, or just a white girl with a strange fashion sense. Knowing that I continue to benefit as a white Muslim in this country causes me to feel an even greater sense of responsibility to represent Islam to my fellow Americans. I think that white Muslims like me are well positioned to help remove the stigmas and reduce the gap between the white American non-Muslim population and the general American Muslims, by Allah’s will. White Americans continue to enter the fold of Islam by Allah’s permission, every year. I believe that the more white American Muslims there are, the more normalized Islam will become in America, which will in turn, benefit the overall Muslim populace, here as well as abroad.

    Frequently Asked Question

    Answering the most relevant questions to help you better understand the article.

    What change caused the author to become more publicly identifiable as Muslim?
    The author explains that adopting full Islamic head covering made her visibly Muslim and changed how many people perceived and treated her.
    How did some people react to the author’s appearance?
    Some assumed she was a foreigner, while others were confused that she could be both American and Muslim.
    Why does the author feel a greater responsibility for her appearance and behavior?
    She believes she represents Islam publicly and therefore strives to be presentable, clean, and well-behaved.
    What stereotype about Muslim women does the author mention encountering?
    She notes being asked whether her husband beat her, reflecting a common stereotype about Muslim women.
    What misconception about conversion does the author address?
    She rejects the assumption that she became Muslim because of a husband, explaining that conversion involved learning and personal conviction.
    How does the author respond to Muslims asking where she is from?
    She emphasizes that white Americans can be Muslim and that Islam is not only for foreigners.
    What benefit does the author see in belonging to the Muslim community?
    She values being part of a global, multiethnic Muslim family and appreciates its diversity.
    How did becoming visibly Muslim affect the author’s view of minorities?
    It increased her empathy and solidarity with minorities by making her more aware of their experiences and challenges.
    What role does the author believe white Muslims can play in America?
    She believes they can help dispel misconceptions about Islam and bridge understanding between non-Muslim Americans and Muslims.
    How does the author think her experiences have influenced her character?
    She says they have strengthened humility, confidence, compassion, and awareness of justice and discrimination.
    Previous ArticleWhy is Allah ‘He’ Rather than ‘She’? | 2
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    danielle loduca
    • Website

    Danielle LoDuca is a third generation artist and author. Drawing inspiration from personal life experiences, her writings highlight the familiarity of Islam in a climate that increasingly portrays the Islamic faith as strange. She holds a BFA from Pratt Institute and has pursued postgraduate studies in Arabic and Islamic Studies at the Foundation for Knowledge and Development. LoDuca’s work has been featured in media publications in the US and abroad and she is currently working on a book that offers a thought-provoking American Muslim perspective, in contrast to the negative narratives regarding Islam and Muslims prevalent in the media today.

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    171 Comments

    1. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    2. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    3. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    4. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    5. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    6. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    7. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    8. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    9. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    10. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    11. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    12. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    13. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    14. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    15. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    16. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    17. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    18. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    19. Sania Rahman on April 18, 2016 3:11 pm

      Interesting

      Reply
    20. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    21. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    22. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    23. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    24. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    25. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    26. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    27. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    28. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    29. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    30. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    31. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    32. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    33. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    34. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    35. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    36. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    37. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    38. Sass A Frass on April 18, 2016 3:50 pm

      Wow… I had a similar conversation with a Mexican – American woman who converted to Islam. Thank you for sharing this!

      Reply
    39. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    40. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    41. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    42. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    43. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    44. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    45. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    46. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    47. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    48. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    49. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    50. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    51. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    52. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    53. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    54. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    55. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    56. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    57. Holly Jiménez on April 18, 2016 3:59 pm

      MA, this is fantastic. :)

      Reply
    58. Mohanad ElToomy on April 18, 2016 11:43 pm

      Sindee Palomino.

      Reply
    59. Mohanad ElToomy on April 18, 2016 11:43 pm

      Sindee Palomino.

      Reply
    60. Mohanad ElToomy on April 18, 2016 11:43 pm

      Sindee Palomino.

      Reply
    61. Mohanad ElToomy on April 18, 2016 11:43 pm

      Sindee Palomino.

      Reply
    62. Mohanad ElToomy on April 18, 2016 11:43 pm

      Sindee Palomino.

      Reply
    63. Mohanad ElToomy on April 18, 2016 11:43 pm

      Sindee Palomino.

      Reply
      • Sindee Palomino on December 21, 2016 5:55 am

        @Mohanad ElToomy Just saw this but you are very correct! I could’ve written this except for one part: “I have had virtually zero negative experiences because of my faith/appearance.” and, “not realizing my advantage nor that my privileges were nonstandard for others.” Because I was raised in a multi-racial family and have almost always been a part of muti-racial families, I can’t claim to have been as ignorant of the effects of prejudice, but I can say that I have enjoyed the benefits of being in the so-called majority, so I can still relate… As for the rest of this article, I could’ve definitely written it! As for how I’m treated in America since becoming Muslim, its a disgrace, and I don’t even feel that I’m one of the oppressed ones! May Allah strengthen the brothers and sisters in America.

        Reply
        • Sindee Palomino on December 21, 2016 5:56 am

          Ok, I guess that’s two* parts! LOL

          Reply
    64. Mohanad ElToomy on April 18, 2016 11:43 pm

      Sindee Palomino.

      Reply
    65. Mohanad ElToomy on April 18, 2016 11:43 pm

      Sindee Palomino.

      Reply
    66. Mohanad ElToomy on April 18, 2016 11:43 pm

      Sindee Palomino.

      Reply
    67. Mohanad ElToomy on April 18, 2016 11:43 pm

      Sindee Palomino.

      Reply
    68. Mohanad ElToomy on April 18, 2016 11:43 pm

      Sindee Palomino.

      Reply
    69. Mohanad ElToomy on April 18, 2016 11:43 pm

      Sindee Palomino.

      Reply
    70. Mohanad ElToomy on April 18, 2016 11:43 pm

      Sindee Palomino.

      Reply
    71. Mohanad ElToomy on April 18, 2016 11:43 pm

      Sindee Palomino.

      Reply
    72. Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 6:18 am

      I never did have white privilege. I think it goes by which community you grow up in. The community I grew up in had mainly “black” privilege. Then I moved to the northshore as a Katrina refugee. I was disliked then too because I was “New Orleans trash”. I moved to a hick town and was hated on cause my family are of Italian/ Sicilian decent. And lastly, I moved to where I am now and converted to Islam. I’m still not liked by most. But I don’t care who likes me and who doesn’t. Once they start paying my bills, maybe I’ll care or at least take into consideration how they feel haha

      Reply
    73. Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 6:18 am

      I never did have white privilege. I think it goes by which community you grow up in. The community I grew up in had mainly “black” privilege. Then I moved to the northshore as a Katrina refugee. I was disliked then too because I was “New Orleans trash”. I moved to a hick town and was hated on cause my family are of Italian/ Sicilian decent. And lastly, I moved to where I am now and converted to Islam. I’m still not liked by most. But I don’t care who likes me and who doesn’t. Once they start paying my bills, maybe I’ll care or at least take into consideration how they feel haha

      Reply
      • Theresa Corbin on April 19, 2016 6:30 am

        Wow. That is interesting and sucky.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 6:51 am

        I can relate. I was raised in a community that became 99% black by the time I was 15. All school events were afroAmerican. I look very fair but I’m half Mexican. No “white” privilege here. Now I get looked down on a lot by many Indian and Pakistani Muslims. They seem suspicious of my fair skin. Weird.

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:06 am

        Just can’t win Janice lol.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 7:12 am

        Sister, what others think of me is their concern. I’m concerned about what Allah thinks of me♡♡♡

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:13 am

        Yes ma’am! That’s all that matters <3

        Reply
    74. Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 6:18 am

      I never did have white privilege. I think it goes by which community you grow up in. The community I grew up in had mainly “black” privilege. Then I moved to the northshore as a Katrina refugee. I was disliked then too because I was “New Orleans trash”. I moved to a hick town and was hated on cause my family are of Italian/ Sicilian decent. And lastly, I moved to where I am now and converted to Islam. I’m still not liked by most. But I don’t care who likes me and who doesn’t. Once they start paying my bills, maybe I’ll care or at least take into consideration how they feel haha

      Reply
      • Theresa Corbin on April 19, 2016 6:30 am

        Wow. That is interesting and sucky.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 6:51 am

        I can relate. I was raised in a community that became 99% black by the time I was 15. All school events were afroAmerican. I look very fair but I’m half Mexican. No “white” privilege here. Now I get looked down on a lot by many Indian and Pakistani Muslims. They seem suspicious of my fair skin. Weird.

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:06 am

        Just can’t win Janice lol.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 7:12 am

        Sister, what others think of me is their concern. I’m concerned about what Allah thinks of me♡♡♡

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:13 am

        Yes ma’am! That’s all that matters <3

        Reply
    75. Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 6:18 am

      I never did have white privilege. I think it goes by which community you grow up in. The community I grew up in had mainly “black” privilege. Then I moved to the northshore as a Katrina refugee. I was disliked then too because I was “New Orleans trash”. I moved to a hick town and was hated on cause my family are of Italian/ Sicilian decent. And lastly, I moved to where I am now and converted to Islam. I’m still not liked by most. But I don’t care who likes me and who doesn’t. Once they start paying my bills, maybe I’ll care or at least take into consideration how they feel haha

      Reply
      • Theresa Corbin on April 19, 2016 6:30 am

        Wow. That is interesting and sucky.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 6:51 am

        I can relate. I was raised in a community that became 99% black by the time I was 15. All school events were afroAmerican. I look very fair but I’m half Mexican. No “white” privilege here. Now I get looked down on a lot by many Indian and Pakistani Muslims. They seem suspicious of my fair skin. Weird.

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:06 am

        Just can’t win Janice lol.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 7:12 am

        Sister, what others think of me is their concern. I’m concerned about what Allah thinks of me♡♡♡

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:13 am

        Yes ma’am! That’s all that matters <3

        Reply
    76. Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 6:18 am

      I never did have white privilege. I think it goes by which community you grow up in. The community I grew up in had mainly “black” privilege. Then I moved to the northshore as a Katrina refugee. I was disliked then too because I was “New Orleans trash”. I moved to a hick town and was hated on cause my family are of Italian/ Sicilian decent. And lastly, I moved to where I am now and converted to Islam. I’m still not liked by most. But I don’t care who likes me and who doesn’t. Once they start paying my bills, maybe I’ll care or at least take into consideration how they feel haha

      Reply
      • Theresa Corbin on April 19, 2016 6:30 am

        Wow. That is interesting and sucky.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 6:51 am

        I can relate. I was raised in a community that became 99% black by the time I was 15. All school events were afroAmerican. I look very fair but I’m half Mexican. No “white” privilege here. Now I get looked down on a lot by many Indian and Pakistani Muslims. They seem suspicious of my fair skin. Weird.

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:06 am

        Just can’t win Janice lol.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 7:12 am

        Sister, what others think of me is their concern. I’m concerned about what Allah thinks of me♡♡♡

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:13 am

        Yes ma’am! That’s all that matters <3

        Reply
    77. Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 6:18 am

      I never did have white privilege. I think it goes by which community you grow up in. The community I grew up in had mainly “black” privilege. Then I moved to the northshore as a Katrina refugee. I was disliked then too because I was “New Orleans trash”. I moved to a hick town and was hated on cause my family are of Italian/ Sicilian decent. And lastly, I moved to where I am now and converted to Islam. I’m still not liked by most. But I don’t care who likes me and who doesn’t. Once they start paying my bills, maybe I’ll care or at least take into consideration how they feel haha

      Reply
      • Theresa Corbin on April 19, 2016 6:30 am

        Wow. That is interesting and sucky.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 6:51 am

        I can relate. I was raised in a community that became 99% black by the time I was 15. All school events were afroAmerican. I look very fair but I’m half Mexican. No “white” privilege here. Now I get looked down on a lot by many Indian and Pakistani Muslims. They seem suspicious of my fair skin. Weird.

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:06 am

        Just can’t win Janice lol.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 7:12 am

        Sister, what others think of me is their concern. I’m concerned about what Allah thinks of me♡♡♡

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:13 am

        Yes ma’am! That’s all that matters <3

        Reply
    78. Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 6:18 am

      I never did have white privilege. I think it goes by which community you grow up in. The community I grew up in had mainly “black” privilege. Then I moved to the northshore as a Katrina refugee. I was disliked then too because I was “New Orleans trash”. I moved to a hick town and was hated on cause my family are of Italian/ Sicilian decent. And lastly, I moved to where I am now and converted to Islam. I’m still not liked by most. But I don’t care who likes me and who doesn’t. Once they start paying my bills, maybe I’ll care or at least take into consideration how they feel haha

      Reply
      • Theresa Corbin on April 19, 2016 6:30 am

        Wow. That is interesting and sucky.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 6:51 am

        I can relate. I was raised in a community that became 99% black by the time I was 15. All school events were afroAmerican. I look very fair but I’m half Mexican. No “white” privilege here. Now I get looked down on a lot by many Indian and Pakistani Muslims. They seem suspicious of my fair skin. Weird.

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:06 am

        Just can’t win Janice lol.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 7:12 am

        Sister, what others think of me is their concern. I’m concerned about what Allah thinks of me♡♡♡

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:13 am

        Yes ma’am! That’s all that matters <3

        Reply
    79. Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 6:18 am

      I never did have white privilege. I think it goes by which community you grow up in. The community I grew up in had mainly “black” privilege. Then I moved to the northshore as a Katrina refugee. I was disliked then too because I was “New Orleans trash”. I moved to a hick town and was hated on cause my family are of Italian/ Sicilian decent. And lastly, I moved to where I am now and converted to Islam. I’m still not liked by most. But I don’t care who likes me and who doesn’t. Once they start paying my bills, maybe I’ll care or at least take into consideration how they feel haha

      Reply
      • Theresa Corbin on April 19, 2016 6:30 am

        Wow. That is interesting and sucky.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 6:51 am

        I can relate. I was raised in a community that became 99% black by the time I was 15. All school events were afroAmerican. I look very fair but I’m half Mexican. No “white” privilege here. Now I get looked down on a lot by many Indian and Pakistani Muslims. They seem suspicious of my fair skin. Weird.

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:06 am

        Just can’t win Janice lol.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 7:12 am

        Sister, what others think of me is their concern. I’m concerned about what Allah thinks of me♡♡♡

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:13 am

        Yes ma’am! That’s all that matters <3

        Reply
    80. Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 6:18 am

      I never did have white privilege. I think it goes by which community you grow up in. The community I grew up in had mainly “black” privilege. Then I moved to the northshore as a Katrina refugee. I was disliked then too because I was “New Orleans trash”. I moved to a hick town and was hated on cause my family are of Italian/ Sicilian decent. And lastly, I moved to where I am now and converted to Islam. I’m still not liked by most. But I don’t care who likes me and who doesn’t. Once they start paying my bills, maybe I’ll care or at least take into consideration how they feel haha

      Reply
      • Theresa Corbin on April 19, 2016 6:30 am

        Wow. That is interesting and sucky.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 6:51 am

        I can relate. I was raised in a community that became 99% black by the time I was 15. All school events were afroAmerican. I look very fair but I’m half Mexican. No “white” privilege here. Now I get looked down on a lot by many Indian and Pakistani Muslims. They seem suspicious of my fair skin. Weird.

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:06 am

        Just can’t win Janice lol.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 7:12 am

        Sister, what others think of me is their concern. I’m concerned about what Allah thinks of me♡♡♡

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:13 am

        Yes ma’am! That’s all that matters <3

        Reply
    81. Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 6:18 am

      I never did have white privilege. I think it goes by which community you grow up in. The community I grew up in had mainly “black” privilege. Then I moved to the northshore as a Katrina refugee. I was disliked then too because I was “New Orleans trash”. I moved to a hick town and was hated on cause my family are of Italian/ Sicilian decent. And lastly, I moved to where I am now and converted to Islam. I’m still not liked by most. But I don’t care who likes me and who doesn’t. Once they start paying my bills, maybe I’ll care or at least take into consideration how they feel haha

      Reply
      • Theresa Corbin on April 19, 2016 6:30 am

        Wow. That is interesting and sucky.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 6:51 am

        I can relate. I was raised in a community that became 99% black by the time I was 15. All school events were afroAmerican. I look very fair but I’m half Mexican. No “white” privilege here. Now I get looked down on a lot by many Indian and Pakistani Muslims. They seem suspicious of my fair skin. Weird.

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:06 am

        Just can’t win Janice lol.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 7:12 am

        Sister, what others think of me is their concern. I’m concerned about what Allah thinks of me♡♡♡

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:13 am

        Yes ma’am! That’s all that matters <3

        Reply
    82. Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 6:18 am

      I never did have white privilege. I think it goes by which community you grow up in. The community I grew up in had mainly “black” privilege. Then I moved to the northshore as a Katrina refugee. I was disliked then too because I was “New Orleans trash”. I moved to a hick town and was hated on cause my family are of Italian/ Sicilian decent. And lastly, I moved to where I am now and converted to Islam. I’m still not liked by most. But I don’t care who likes me and who doesn’t. Once they start paying my bills, maybe I’ll care or at least take into consideration how they feel haha

      Reply
      • Theresa Corbin on April 19, 2016 6:30 am

        Wow. That is interesting and sucky.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 6:51 am

        I can relate. I was raised in a community that became 99% black by the time I was 15. All school events were afroAmerican. I look very fair but I’m half Mexican. No “white” privilege here. Now I get looked down on a lot by many Indian and Pakistani Muslims. They seem suspicious of my fair skin. Weird.

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:06 am

        Just can’t win Janice lol.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 7:12 am

        Sister, what others think of me is their concern. I’m concerned about what Allah thinks of me♡♡♡

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:13 am

        Yes ma’am! That’s all that matters <3

        Reply
    83. Brandi Marino Elghorayeby on April 19, 2016 6:18 am

      I never did have white privilege. I think it goes by which community you grow up in. The community I grew up in had mainly “black” privilege. Then I moved to the northshore as a Katrina refugee. I was disliked then too because I was “New Orleans trash”. I moved to a hick town and was hated on cause my family are of Italian/ Sicilian decent. And lastly, I moved to where I am now and converted to Islam. I’m still not liked by most. But I don’t care who likes me and who doesn’t. Once they start paying my bills, maybe I’ll care or at least take into consideration how they feel haha

      Reply
      • Theresa Corbin on April 19, 2016 6:30 am

        Wow. That is interesting and sucky.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 6:51 am

        I can relate. I was raised in a community that became 99% black by the time I was 15. All school events were afroAmerican. I look very fair but I’m half Mexican. No “white” privilege here. Now I get looked down on a lot by many Indian and Pakistani Muslims. They seem suspicious of my fair skin. Weird.

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Elghorayeby on April 19, 2016 7:06 am

        Just can’t win Janice lol.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 7:12 am

        Sister, what others think of me is their concern. I’m concerned about what Allah thinks of me♡♡♡

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Elghorayeby on April 19, 2016 7:13 am

        Yes ma’am! That’s all that matters <3

        Reply
    84. Brandi Marino Elghorayeby on April 19, 2016 6:18 am

      I never did have white privilege. I think it goes by which community you grow up in. The community I grew up in had mainly “black” privilege. Then I moved to the northshore as a Katrina refugee. I was disliked then too because I was “New Orleans trash”. I moved to a hick town and was hated on cause my family are of Italian/ Sicilian decent. And lastly, I moved to where I am now and converted to Islam. I’m still not liked by most. But I don’t care who likes me and who doesn’t. Once they start paying my bills, maybe I’ll care or at least take into consideration how they feel haha

      Reply
      • Theresa Corbin on April 19, 2016 6:30 am

        Wow. That is interesting and sucky.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 6:51 am

        I can relate. I was raised in a community that became 99% black by the time I was 15. All school events were afroAmerican. I look very fair but I’m half Mexican. No “white” privilege here. Now I get looked down on a lot by many Indian and Pakistani Muslims. They seem suspicious of my fair skin. Weird.

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Elghorayeby on April 19, 2016 7:06 am

        Just can’t win Janice lol.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 7:12 am

        Sister, what others think of me is their concern. I’m concerned about what Allah thinks of me♡♡♡

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Elghorayeby on April 19, 2016 7:13 am

        Yes ma’am! That’s all that matters <3

        Reply
    85. Brandi Marino Elghorayeby on April 19, 2016 6:18 am

      I never did have white privilege. I think it goes by which community you grow up in. The community I grew up in had mainly “black” privilege. Then I moved to the northshore as a Katrina refugee. I was disliked then too because I was “New Orleans trash”. I moved to a hick town and was hated on cause my family are of Italian/ Sicilian decent. And lastly, I moved to where I am now and converted to Islam. I’m still not liked by most. But I don’t care who likes me and who doesn’t. Once they start paying my bills, maybe I’ll care or at least take into consideration how they feel haha

      Reply
      • Theresa Corbin on April 19, 2016 6:30 am

        Wow. That is interesting and sucky.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 6:51 am

        I can relate. I was raised in a community that became 99% black by the time I was 15. All school events were afroAmerican. I look very fair but I’m half Mexican. No “white” privilege here. Now I get looked down on a lot by many Indian and Pakistani Muslims. They seem suspicious of my fair skin. Weird.

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Elghorayeby on April 19, 2016 7:06 am

        Just can’t win Janice lol.

        Reply
      • Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 7:12 am

        Sister, what others think of me is their concern. I’m concerned about what Allah thinks of me♡♡♡

        Reply
      • Brandi Marino Elghorayeby on April 19, 2016 7:13 am

        Yes ma’am! That’s all that matters <3

        Reply
    86. Theresa Corbin on April 19, 2016 6:30 am

      Wow. That is interesting and sucky.

      Reply
    87. Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 6:51 am

      I can relate. I was raised in a community that became 99% black by the time I was 15. All school events were afroAmerican. I look very fair but I’m half Mexican. No “white” privilege here. Now I get looked down on a lot by many Indian and Pakistani Muslims. They seem suspicious of my fair skin. Weird.

      Reply
    88. Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:06 am

      Just can’t win Janice lol.

      Reply
    89. Janice Maria on April 19, 2016 7:12 am

      Sister, what others think of me is their concern. I’m concerned about what Allah thinks of me♡♡♡

      Reply
    90. Brandi Marino Gordon on April 19, 2016 7:13 am

      Yes ma’am! That’s all that matters <3

      Reply
    91. Annisa Shafiqa on April 23, 2016 1:18 am

      thanks to add ,,,, ,

      Reply
    92. Annisa Shafiqa on April 23, 2016 1:18 am

      thanks to add ,,,, ,

      Reply
    93. Annisa Shafiqa on April 23, 2016 1:18 am

      thanks to add ,,,, ,

      Reply
    94. Annisa Shafiqa on April 23, 2016 1:18 am

      thanks to add ,,,, ,

      Reply
    95. Annisa Shafiqa on April 23, 2016 1:18 am

      thanks to add ,,,, ,

      Reply
    96. Annisa Shafiqa on April 23, 2016 1:18 am

      thanks to add ,,,, ,

      Reply
    97. Annisa Shafiqa on April 23, 2016 1:18 am

      thanks to add ,,,, ,

      Reply
    98. Annisa Shafiqa on April 23, 2016 1:18 am

      thanks to add ,,,, ,

      Reply
    99. Annisa Shafiqa on April 23, 2016 1:18 am

      thanks to add ,,,, ,

      Reply
    100. Annisa Shafiqa on April 23, 2016 1:18 am

      thanks to add ,,,, ,

      Reply
    101. Annisa Shafiqa on April 23, 2016 1:18 am

      thanks to add ,,,, ,

      Reply
    102. Annisa Shafiqa on April 23, 2016 1:18 am

      thanks to add ,,,, ,

      Reply
    103. Annisa Shafiqa on April 23, 2016 1:18 am

      thanks to add ,,,, ,

      Reply
    104. Annisa Shafiqa on April 23, 2016 1:18 am

      thanks to add ,,,, ,

      Reply
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