Incidents of violence and discrimination against Muslim Americans are on the rise. Inflamed by fears, misinformation and bald-faced prejudice, anti-Islamic organizations have tripled their membership just in the past three years. How did this disturbing trend begin, where is it going and how do we stop it? Produced by Al Jazeera Investigations, Islamophobia Inc examines the source of hatred against Muslims, the tools employed to spread discriminatory ideologies, and the possible culpability of President Donald Trump and others in his administration.
The film takes a no holds barred approach when assessing blame for hateful rhetoric and acts of brutality against Muslims. ACT for America is just one of the institutions in the film's crosshairs. Through incessant propaganda and a vigorous social media presence, the organization has successfully categorized an entire population of just under 2 billion people with a wide and demonizing brush. Under the guise of national security, they campaign against Muslim candidates across the political spectrum, and have brainwashed their followers into believing that all Muslims are out to confiscate their constitutional freedoms and decimate their Christian faith.
From the film's perspective, these misguided messages of hate inevitably trigger activists with violent tendencies. In recent years, the country has been left reeling from targeted shootings, public beatings and planted explosions in Muslim houses of worship. In response, the current White House administration has done little to quell islamophobic hostilities. In some instances, they've engaged in rhetoric that has only exacerbated and empowered the aggression.
Meaningful change could conceivably come from the corridors of power in Washington, but a number of wealthy donors are shelling out big bucks to ensure defeat for any Muslim candidates. Some of these donors represent mainstream and conservative Jewish organizations.
The film also includes insights from the activists on the other side of the battlefield. They struggle to defeat the rising tide of intolerance through education and social outreach.
Islamophobia Inc is an exceedingly well produced and thoroughly researched investigation of a hate movement that's taking hold across the country. It's a virus that enables ignorance and viciousness while contradicting fundamental American values and principles.