The ‘War on Terror’ & the ‘War on People of Color’: Muslim, Arab, South Asians Build Movement as Black & Brown U.S. Struggle

Since 9/11, Muslim, Arab, South Asians have become the “Terrorist” at home while the U.S. expands empire in the Arab world & South Asia. On both fronts, ‘pre-emptive’ attack is the U.S. strategy- for wars abroad and arrest of suspected ‘home-grown terrorists’ at home. FBI and law enforcement programs have institutionalized counter-Radicalization programs in these communities instilling fear. Yet, is any of this new or different from the legacy of policing and social control of African Americans, Latinos, and Native Americans in U.S. history? This interactive panel & discussion with Arab, South Asian, Black, and Latino organizers will explore analysis and strategy on: What is the current dis-connect, especially among Muslim, Arab, South Asian organizations in building unity with Black & Brown movements? How is the ‘War on Terror’ rooted in this legacy of the ‘War on Drugs’ and the ‘War on Crime’? If the U.S. empire necessitates structural racism within, how do people of color build real strategy & solidarity across struggles? Why is this critical to win justice in the post 9/11 moment and beyond? The session will include presentations, open dialogue, and calls to action.