HUMANITY LOST: THE PERSONAL IMPACT OF DISCRIMINATION AGAINST MUSLIMS IN THE POPULAR NEWS MEDIA

Abstract

Using autoethnography, critical reflections and reflective and reflexive analyses, this thesis explores the personal and social effects of discrimination against Muslims in the popular news media in the aftermath of three major international terrorist attacks: the 9/11 attacks, the Charlie Hebdo attacks, and the Paris attacks in 2015. Moving through themes of loss, discrimination and exclusion, internalized oppression, resistance and hope, this thesis makes use of theories of oppression and social constructionism to gain a better understanding of how discrimination against Muslims in the news media has impacted and influenced my perceptions of self as a Muslim, and my Muslim identity. I believe that this thesis will provide a necessarily personal perspective on an issue that is highly complex, hidden and nuanced, in hopes of fostering a deeper and more empathetic understanding of the personal impacts of discrimination and oppression.