Blog 2

Posted by: jkdsc89316 on: February 1, 2012

In: Uncategorized
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We finished watching “My Name is Khan” this past week. Although the movie was a bit too dramatic for me, I believe that it was done on purpose to make a point. We had a discussion about the stereotypes that were shown in the movie, and there were mixed reactions. Some liked it because the exaggeration through different characters helped them understand the movie. Others didn’t think that the stereotypes were exaggerated on purpose; they were just the result of the producers trying to “Americanize” the film. Overall, the movie reinforced that the idea of all Muslims being terrorist, or even those that “look” like Muslims, is really ridiculous.

It’s interesting to read about Muhammad, someone who I had never really known about until I read the first reading for this class. I do like how the readings are flowing together, and not all over the place. Muhammad’s life is very interesting, and the readings describing his life in Mecca, his emigration to Medina and he himself are helping me gain a better understanding of Islam.

I heard that the Dutch government is planning to ban burqas soon, following in France’s steps. Government representatives are saying that it isn’t targeted toward Muslims, except that it happens to be that only the law will affect a few hundred people. Not a lot of Muslims wear the burka there. One of the excuses the government is using is that it’ll affect people who wear motorcycle helmets too. I think the law is ridiculous, even if people are still allowed to cover their face on planes or religious services. I should also add that people who are dressed up for the holidays (like Halloween, for example) are exempt, according to the article I read.

In response to snowmakesmehappy, I don’t think only Muslim students stick together in a classroom. It’s only normal to find comfort with those that are like you. As a Hispanic, I often sit near other Hispanics or people who I notice at least speak Spanish. This doesn’t necessarily stop me from branching out. Perhaps this is just me, but if someone wants to make new friends they should just do it.