Eleven

Violent acts of assault on another man are they justified when motivated by religion or are it mere acts of racism. Many religious followers believe this to be true and feel that they will be taken to their God to live for eternity. September 11, 2001 will go down in history as one of the most horrific events to take place on American soil. So many innocent American’s lives were taken at the hands of very faithful Muslims. This event brought about so much hostility and racism towards the people of Middle Eastern descent. Eleven clearly reveals this hatred and violence.

The snapshot of the Twin Towers on fire is a picture that will remain scared in many Americans minds. Many people became very critical towards an ethnic group that in my opinion are not all bad, the anger and hurt from 911 caused a label to be placed on all whom had ethnic ties to the Middle East. The young reporter whom attends prayer at the Mosque is there innocently conducting an interview. As he returns to his vehicle he is attacked by three men who proceed to beat him. This was not a random act of violence; racism against these people was the only motive these men had. The director of the film zooms in on the book “Absolutely American” which is being returned to the library. The book says a lot about this young man. Although he may be an American citizen, his ancestors may be of Middle Eastern descent, and so he is also targeted as a treat and attacked.

To witness such ignorance that surrounds our daily lives is so pathetic. Many people will make falsely claims and excuses disguising their behavior as a religious act. The diversity in religions is so broad, who is to say one is dominant over the other. This debate over religious beliefs has lead to great tension and racism with one another. The idea of ethnic racism and now religious racism is a frightening thought. Are we heading toward a future of utter chaos?

N. Diaz – 07/02/2008