Racism is America's Original Sin

Racism is America's Original Sin



By Shamsi Ali

There's an evident paradox in America. On one hand, we pride ourselves on being champions of human rights, justice, and equality, promoting these values globally. On the other hand, we're witnessing a dark chapter in our nation's history.


The Trump administration's policies towards immigrants, particularly Hispanics and non-Whites, are a stark example of cruelty and racist behaviors of the Trump administration. Additionally, the Trump administration efforts to suppress pro-Palestinian voices on American campuses are also evidence of high and systemic racism under the Trump administration.


As a member of a minority community, this treatment of the administration doesn't surprise me or many others. However, I've long defended America, arguing that racial profiling cases don't represent the nation's true face. I admire the Constitution and universal values America promotes worldwide.


The Roots of Racism


I've previously stated that the "sickness of racism" in America could be considered its original sin. Racism isn't a new phenomenon; it's been part of America’s history since the very beginning. The real Native Americans, known today as "Indians” were the original inhabitants of this land. All others, including European immigrants, are immigrants and have no right to claim to be the "native/real) Americans.


History tells us that when Europeans arrived, they were welcomed by Native Americans, who even celebrated Thanksgiving together. However, this celebration shifted to commemorate European immigrants dominance over Native Americans, leading to their marginalization and virtual annihilation. African Americans, brought to this country through slavery, have faced similar injustices and discriminatory treatment.


This mistreatment has continued throughout history, from the civil rights movement led by Martin Luther King Jr. to the present day. Japanese Americans were treated poorly after World War II. Today, Hispanic, Asian, and particularly Muslim communities are deeply facing discrimination and different forms of mistreatment.


The Current Reality


The election of the current administration has certainly emboldened racists and anti-non-Whites, leading to a rise in White Supremacy and White Nationalism. Islamophobia and hate against minority. Mistreatments of Muslims are not new and have a long history in America, predating 9/11 in 2001 and beyond. 


Our Shared Responsibility


The current climate under the Trump administration should remind us of our shared responsibility to address racism and injustice. Remember, justice is equivalent to life itself, and living with injustices is death. Racism is equivalent to the devil, and we must rise and fight against it collectively.


All Americans must stand up against racism and defend their Constitution and values. Leaders have a moral obligation and constitutional responsibility to ensure justice and equality. We need courage and honesty to address this societal sickness.


Despite the challenges, I remain confident in America's greatness and beauty. By upholding highly our Constitution and values we all proud of, will enable us give us ti create a better America. And with our collective efforts and determination, we can overcome the darkness of racism and build a brighter future for all.


New York City, June 11, 2025

Director of Jamaica Muslim Center & President of Nusantara Foundation

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