Schools and Universities have a legal obligation to combat ANY form of bullying, harassment and Islamophobia at school. They have to take steps to try and handle and work against Islamophobic actions within the four walls.
Below is a list of possible steps that Schools (teachers and others) could take to try and challenge, overcome Islamophobia and dispell myths about Islam in general.
Find out some basic facts and figures about the Muslim communities in Britain and the world today.
Understand that Islam is a religion of peace. There are extreamists, but these are present in all religions and walks of life (such as the ETA grup in Spain, the IRA in Ireland, the Tamil Tigers in Sri-Lanka.)
Understand and be aware that there is no natural link between Muslims, refugees and terrorism. To dispell such myths and misunderstandings, so that greater awareness is made of Islam.
Understand Islam and Muslims by rejecting popular stereotypes (ie women are oppressed, all Muslims are terrorists, fundamentalism). This may be done by listening to what young Muslims say about Islam.
Engaging critically with stereotypes of Muslims in films, TV programmes, and the media and society in general.
Challenge Islamophobic lies within the broader framework of anti-racism, equality, fairness and social justice. Encourage pupils to challenge their friends who display Islamophobic behaviour.
Understand discrimination experienced by Muslims in the UK and elsewhere by analysing their educational and employment prospects and status in society more generally.
Hold assemblies and class presentations to reiterate the problem of Islamophobia, anti-racism and safe school policies. Possible "Islam Awareness Week" projects, in which students can become more aware of the problem of Islamophobia and what Islam is about.
Raising awareness and understanding of Islam to the teachers. Making them understand what commonly used Islamic terms such as "Jihad" mean, and common issues which are generally raised; such as the place of women in Islam, the Islamic stance on war and terrorism, etc.
Sensitivity towards religious requirements is essential. Such as Islamic festivals (ie Eid) and when planning important school events so that special days and festivals are avoided as much as possible.
Reinforcing the concept that there are good and bad people in every country and every society and that terrorist attacks (such as 9/11 should not be seen to reflect on an entire group of people.
Recognising the position and placement of Muslims in Britain, and Reduce the unwarranted fear of "foreigners". That British Muslims play their part in contributing to Britain's wealth and culture.
Highlighting the enormous contributions that Muslims have and continue to place into society; taking up jobs such as Doctors, Lawyers, Dentists, teachers and so on.
This demonstrates that Muslims are not and do not seek to be a "ghetto community". British (and other) Muslims are committed to participating in and contributing to the wider society. Participation, however, cannot imply or involve forfeiting one's faith; such as working with alcohol, or interest.
Denouncing any Islamophobia that occurs and encouraging better understanding and language use between pupils. Setting a positive example by refraining from using terms such as "Muslim Terrorists" or "Islamic Fundamentalists" as these promote fear and hatred. To take the time to challenge the use of derogatory and racist language used by students and others in society.
Better awareness of the contributions made by Muslims to the wider world. Such as the fact that Algebra was invented by a Muslim Mathematitian (astronomer and geographer) - Muhammad Al-Khawarizmi. The fact that a century-long presence means that Muslims now have their roots in the British Isles, and else-where.