Every morning I wake up, go to the toilet and brush my teeth. When I’m done, I take a shower, get changed and run downstairs to prepare my regular toast and a cup of tea. Normally I watch the news but sometimes it gets depressing so I switch it to SpongeBob or Tom and Jerry, depending on my mood. My little brother is normally watching it with me as he prepares for school and then we both leave the house. After walking him to school, I catch a bus and go straight to Uni, stay there until late and come home craving for my bed. And then repeat the routine the next day.

I know the introduction to this article sounds irrelevant but I’m trying to prove a point. I probably do the exact same thing every other person does in the morning. There are so many people from different races, cultures and beliefs getting on with their lives and going to work every day. They all get on the same tube; walk on the same pavement, breathe the same air… But why is there still hate? People have different values and beliefs but in the end we’re the same. We’re all human beings.

Talking about Religion is really important to me. Because in our world today, not many people really understand Islam. And it’s sad because people are eager to find out what this religion is about but they don’t read the right sources. Instead, they turn to people who have little knowledge about it or just search up ‘Islam’ on the Internet and read forums posted by clueless people. It doesn’t work that way. Let me tell you one thing, people like Tommy Robinson or any member of the EDL will definitely give you the wrong idea. Muslims are always keen to answer any questions. If you have any concerns or you’re confused about something, ask a Muslim. Or better yet, read the Quran. Every question you have will be answered.

I wear a headscarf and yes I still get glances from people on public transport, I still get asked ‘Why do you wear that on your head?’ and I still receive racist comments. But it’s something I expect because of course, Islam is seen as a strange religion for people. They want to know why women have to be covered up and why we have to eat halal meat and why men have beards. It’s alright to be curious. You know, because a man having facial hair is seen as a threat now.

I never really lived anywhere else apart from the UK. I was born and raised in this country, went to school in this country and I am currently studying for my degree. Both my parents are hard-working people who tried their best to support this family for the past 22 years. (Yes, they pay their taxes and they don’t rely on the government for benefits.) They fled the war in order to raise kids in a safer environment, just like anyone would if they lived in a war torn country. There are so many Muslims living in Britain who are trying to make a living but extreme individuals are the ones who ruin it for the majority. And it’s frustrating for us to be put in the same category as them.

Islam taught me to respect people no matter where they’re from or what they believe in.

Islam taught me that simply smiling will get you rewarded.

Islam taught me to respect my neighbours.

Islam taught me to love and appreciate my parents.

Islam taught me to greet people with ‘Assalamu Alaykum’ which means ‘May peace be with you’.

Islam taught me to fast during Ramadan in order to remember those who are less fortunate and to regularly give to charity.

Islam taught me to stay modest so that I can be respected by others.

Islam taught me that an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over black nor a black has any superiority over white.

Islam taught me equality.

I love living in the UK. I love the people, I love the food and I love how it is multicultural. And most importantly, I’m proud to be a British Muslim.