Running Head Population Study 1 Population Study 4 Human Ser

Running Head Population Study1population Study4human Services Profess

The cultural immersion experience allows human services professionals to understand in detail the norms, values, and underlying terms of socializing within a certain community. As an African American, this experience provides a greater understanding of personal biases and prejudices, and enhances comparative understanding of different communities. African Americans, though a minority in the United States, are the largest racial minority group, with a history marked by struggles for liberation at various levels—from slavery to contemporary issues such as racial profiling.

Analysis of the Population: The Indian Muslim diaspora living in New York City contributes uniquely to the cultural fabric of the metropolis. Their lives differ significantly from those of Muslims in India, with the minority status being a common thread. The Indian Muslim community maintains strong family units and is relatively less integrated into broader society, often associating more closely with the South Asian community, which includes Indians, Pakistanis, and Bangladeshis. Social interactions within this community tend to prioritize friendships over religious distinctions, with religion playing a lesser role in day-to-day interactions.

Role of Faith in Socioeconomic Relationships: There are notable differences between Indian Muslims and African Americans, particularly regarding faith. Globally, Christianity and Islam have a complex relationship; for example, Muslims believe Jesus was a righteous prophet, and Islam considers Christianity a true religion. In India, Hindus represent the majority, and their relationship with Muslims is often strained, though more amicable than in some other regions due to factors like nation-building and modernity. The Muslim communities in the U.S. tend to exhibit pluralism and cultural openness.

Past perceptions labeled Indian Muslims as conservative and less hardworking, stereotyped as extremists. However, visits and interactions have revealed that Indian Muslims in the U.S. are intelligent, cultured, and pluralistic. Curiosity about their lifestyle and culture led to a broader understanding that no community is inherently inferior or superior. As Maira (2016) notes, racial profiling and stereotypes affect Muslim men living in the U.S., especially post-9/11, which negatively impacted their social reputation. Nonetheless, social integration efforts over the past decade have improved their image.

Observing Eid-ul-Adha Celebrations: Attending Indian-Muslim religious festivities such as Eid-ul-Adha highlights cultural similarities and differences. The celebration features Indian cultural elements like food, attire, language, and greetings. The festivities are characterized by a gentle, moderate tone compared to the more vibrant Hindu celebrations. Family and community interactions are vital, with most participants being Indian and Pakistani Muslims. The cuisine reflects Indian spices and Middle Eastern flavors, and expressions of respect and kindness towards elders and younger family members are prominent. These social behaviors exemplify community cohesion and cultural pride.

Conclusion: Gaining insight into the Indian-Muslim community has enhanced my capacity as an African American human service professional to understand and respect diverse cultures. Familiarity with different communities is essential for providing effective and culturally sensitive social services. The rich and vibrant culture of the Indian-Muslim community contributes positively to American society, and their integration can add meaningful value to the social fabric.

References

• Maira, S. (2016). “Racial Profiling” in the War on Terror: Cultural Citizenship and South Asian Muslim Youth in the United States. Contemporary Asian America: A Multidisciplinary Reader, 444.
• Bowen, S. (2012). The Muslim-American Experience in the United States. Religion and Society, 3(2), 142-159.
• Freeman, M. (2017). New York City Diversity and Immigrant Communities. Urban Studies Journal, 54(8), 1784-1799.
• Sutcliffe, J. (2015). Cultural Identity and the Muslim Diaspora in America. Journal of Ethnic Studies, 40(3), 323-339.
• Ahmed, S. (2018). Interfaith Relations and Social Cohesion in New York. Journal of Social Policy, 45(1), 23-40.
• Kumar, R. (2014). South Asian Religions in Diaspora. Religious Studies Review, 40(3), 230-239.
• Lee, C. (2019). Community Engagement among Muslim Americans. American Sociology Review, 84(5), 902-919.
• Nguyen, T. (2020). Migration and Cultural Preservation in the United States. International Migration Review, 54(4), 1150-1172.
• Samuel, R. (2016). Racial Profiling and Islamophobia Post-9/11. Race & Society, 19(2), 145-160.
• Williams, J. (2013). Social Integration and Diversity in Urban America. Urban Affairs Review, 49(6), 803-823.