As a society we fall short in making assumptions that are more than likely not entirety accurate. Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) is a destructive force that has no problem being very aggressive in making terror threats. They have shown this by decapitating heads of journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff (at the time of press, a third civilian, British aid worker David Haines, was similarly executed).

This radical sect may drive the uninformed to think that all Muslims have no qualms with the immoral and unethical actions of ISIS. After Sept. 11, 2011 a stereotype began with people thinking that all Muslims believed in the actions of some insane radical that claims religious ideations and methodologies justify killing people in the name of Allah or god.

Many people have killed in the name of religious terrorism, and for their beliefs in the name of a faith or religion. The bible has inspired the bombing of abortion clinics and invasions of foreign lands.  All too often in the Christian faith people have acted like killing for what they believe in is written in the Bible. Sadly, some people believe that a God would want us to expunge a certain religious group or behead someone.

Unlike in the majority of western countries, the religious laws govern the land, and in most cases control the government in the Middle East. For example, you can be stoned to death under sharia law for adultery. ISIS is using sharia law to justify their actions. There has been national attention drawn to American and British citizens arrested for attempting to join ISIS. The group’s recruitment campaign has been quite successful in recruiting people from several countries, including America.

Other Middle Eastern countries oppose ISIS efforts. As reported by the Guardian news site, Leaders of Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, and Lebanon pledge to ‘stand united’ and express openness to contribute to a US-led war effort.  ISIS is a dangerous threat to America, and if ignored may result in another 9/11 magnitude tragedy.

Hamda Mustafa is a Madison resident that grew up in Palestine. She is also a Muslim, and is upset with the current state of affairs.

“I am sick and tired of people in America thinking that all Muslims agree with the actions of ISIS,” said Mustafa. “I do not agree with the fanatical acts of mad women and men that kill in the name of their beliefs and not mine or the majority of Muslims on this Earth.”

Many Muslims are experiencing the same racial prejudices as after the events of 9/11. Media has a responsibility in America to inform the public that ISIS does not represent all Muslims.  I am fairly certain we will never stop the hatred of some, but we will destroy forces like ISIS.