On September 11, 2001, nineteen terrorists hijacked four airplanes, leading to attacks that killed over three thousand Americans and left the nation in shock. In the aftermath, President George W. Bush proclaimed a united resolve for justice and peace but soon initiated a "War on Terror," resulting in years of Muslims facing collective punishment and scapegoating. In 2009, President Barack Obama expressed a desire for a new era of peace, yet he continued the infrastructure established by Bush, rendering his promises hollow. President Donald Trump's Islamophobic rhetoric further fueled public fear, justifying the ongoing War on Terror. In "Innocent Until Proven Muslim," Dr. Maha Hilal explores two decades of this conflict, revealing how the official narrative has legitimized state violence rooted in Islamophobia and obscured its most severe abuses. Hilal examines the legal and policy evolution of the War on Terror while highlighting the internalized oppression among Muslim Americans and the complicity of some influential figures in perpetuating collective responsibility. The experiences of this marginalized community provide essential lessons for creating a more inclusive future. As we reflect on the legacy of 9/11, it is crucial to strive for a truly unified United States.
