Abstract

Today is a difficult time to be both Arab and American. Since 9/11 there has been a lot of criticism of America’s involvement in the middle east. Yet there has been little analysis of how America treats citizens of Arab or middle eastern origin within its own borders.

Steven Salaita explores the reality of Anti-Arab racism in America. He blends personal narrative, theory and polemics to show how this deep-rooted racism affects everything from legislation to cultural life, shining a light on the consequences of Anti-Arab racism both at home and abroad.

The book shows how ingrained racist attitudes can be found within the progressive movements on the political left, as well as the right. Salaita argues that, under the guise of patriotism, Anti-Arab racism fuels support for policies such as the Patriot Act.
'Provides a social analysis of Arab-American relationships, racism issues, and how America treats Arab citizens within its own borders'
Midwest Book Review
'Steven Salaita dives head first into the heart of racism in America and uses his personal experiences to help readers understand the mechanics of racism as it applies to Arabs and Muslims'
Ray Hanania, journalist and filmmaker, author of I’m Glad I Look Like a Terrorist: Growing up Arab in America and Arabs of Chicagoland
'A sobering analysis of anti-Arab racism. Written with passion, this lucid account of the dangers of American imperialism paints a dark picture of the agenda of the Bush administration not only in the Arab world but also for people of colour at home'
Miriam Cooke, Professor, Duke University
'Offers an impassioned and deeply compelling look at the origins, evolution, manifestations and implications of anti-Arab racism today. A tour-de-force which makes it impossible to avoid grappling with the seriousness of anti-Arab racism and its implications for our times'
Lisa Suhair Majaj, co-editor, Etel Adnan: Critical Reflections on the Arab-American Writer and Artist and Intersections: Gender, Nation, and Community in Arab Women’s Novels
'A highly recommended read, not only for students of Middle East history and affairs, but for the average American who simply longs to know how we have become so intimately and yet so bitterly entwined with the people of the Middle East'
Ramzy Baroud, editor, Palestine Chronicle and author of Searching Jenin