On March 15th, the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, the Collective against Islamophobia and Discrimination organized a significant meeting in Amsterdam West. This event, part of a global effort to address anti-Muslim prejudice, aimed to highlight the growing challenges of Islamophobia in the Netherlands and across Europe.

The gathering featured discussions on systemic discrimination, the role of media in perpetuating stereotypes, and the importance of education in fostering understanding. Rabin Baldewsingh, the National Coordinator for Discrimination and Racism, delivered a speech emphasizing the need for policy changes and community solidarity to combat Islamophobia effectively.

Participants also shared personal stories, including Sihame Chaoi, a 23-year-old Muslim teacher, who spoke about her experiences with discrimination and its impact on her life and work. Her testimony, alongside others, underscored the urgency of addressing Islamophobia not just as an individual issue but as a societal one.

In this 3-minute audio report, we explore the key themes of the meeting and hear firsthand accounts of those affected by Islamophobia. Their stories remind us of the importance of collective action and dialogue in building a more inclusive and respectful world.