Australian Muslims and the “Innocence of Muslims”

Abstract

This chapter begins on the premise that Muslims are still regarded as a “newly” settled community in Australia. This is attributed to a certain lack of civic engagement with wider society until recent times. The chapter investigates the maturing of the voice of the Muslim community, precipitated in part by the protests to the YouTube video “Innocence of Muslims.” It discusses how the event brought together diverse Muslim organizations and how their responses shaped public opinion. It also explores the role of the media in the spread of stereotypes and promotion of Islamophobia or hatred against Australian Muslims. The behaviors and attitudes of second- and third-generation Muslims will be underscored.