Diversity and Inclusive Practices: Representing Muslim Children

By Fawzia Reza

Diversity in schools around the world is increasing, as students from different ethnic backgrounds enroll. However, teachers are sometimes not prepared to teach these children because they lack knowledge about their unique cultures and traditions. Many of the children are torn between maintaining their home culture or assimilating into the culture of their peers; this inner conflict affects their well-being and self-esteem.

As a Muslim-American mother, I remember how awkward I felt when I had to introduce Eid, which is one of the most important Muslim festivals, to my children’s teachers. They had no idea what I was talking about and it was hard to explain a concept that was extremely new to them. Furthermore, the teachers were busy preparing their students for standardized testing, which meant they had very little time to learn about their students’ different cultures. The information they did have was often received through media that promoted negative stereotypical messages about Muslims.

All children want to feel represented in a positive manner. This includes children who follow Islam. However, many Muslim children in the United States are unable to find appropriate role models. They may feel like strangers in their classes and schools, unwelcome and isolated. Wouldn’t it be great if all children felt represented and valued?

I was pleased to note evidence of a few positive steps in this regard. American Eid, a short movie from Disney, was released this year. It is about a young Pakistani Muslim girl who advocates for her school to observe a holiday on Eid so that Muslim children can spend the time celebrating with their families. Also, I recently went to the American Girl doll company store in Los Angeles and was pleasantly surprised to see that they now sell an outfit for their dolls that incorporates a hijab and clothing traditionally worn by Muslim girls. The outfit was released to commemorate and celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, which comes at the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

I am extremely happy to see increased positive representation of the traditions that are part of Muslim children’s home lives. While more efforts are still need, including representing boys, these thoughtful and considerate first steps must be cherished and applauded. I hope that children from all cultures, religious beliefs, and backgrounds are represented and respected by our media and in popular culture so that we can become a united global world!