Supporting MENA and Muslim Students on Campus
The MENA population is geographically based and includes Arabic-speaking groups, such as Egyptian, Jordanian, Palestinian, Lebanese, Syrian, etc. and non-Arabic speaking groups. It also includes ethnic and transnational groups from the region, such as Assyrian and Kurdish.
Today, there are an estimated 3.85 million individuals of Middle Eastern and North African origins in the United States. Unfortunately, Arab, MENA, and Muslim communities often experience distinct forms of identity-based prejudice and discrimination as religious and cultural background can play a significant role in shaping social dynamics.
We recognize and understand that bias and hostility in any form can exert detrimental impact on individuals and communities, by fostering division, disrupting campus, social, academic, and personal well-being, especially considering recent socio-political and global events.
CCS supports and advocates for the MENA and Muslim communities and encourages those with such identities to be seen, supported, and heard. Below are resources that can help you to find connection with MENA and Muslim communities, as well as therapeutic resources to provide healing, validation, and empowerment.
Resources/information/support:
Campus resources
- Office of Diversity & Inclusion
- Engage with student communities/organizations
- Middle East Studies Center
- Center Center for Belonging and Social Change
- Office of Institutional Equity
Community Resources
- https://columbusfoundation.org/the-giving-store/nonprofit-directory-listing/MuslimFamilyServicesofOhio/9521
- https://www.myprojectusa.org/
Educational resources
- Radical Self-Care in the Face of Mounting Racial Stress | Psychology Today
- DECEMBER-2023_Understanding-Supporting-MENA-Muslim-Students_FINAL-VERSION_12.21.23.pdf (harvard.edu)
- Violence in Israel and Gaza | Middle East Studies Center (osu.edu)
- Resources for Educators, Families to Discuss the Events in Israel and Gaza with Students | post (sdcoe.net)
- FACT SHEET: The U.S. Department of Education Announces New Tools to Tackle Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Related Forms of Discrimination and Bias | U.S. Department of Education
- Keys to Understanding the Middle East Podcast | Brought to you by the Middle East Studies Center (osu.edu)