The acknowledgment of Islamophobia as a global problem of anti-Muslim bigotry and hate by the United Nations marks the highest recognition the Muslim community has seen in years. The United Nations has gone further to institutionalize recognition by proclaiming March 15th as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
An annual rallying date, March 15th, for the community to congregate and debate, plan, and execute a combat Islamophobia strategy.
The UN proclamation stipulates commemorating Islamophobia Day by organizing and supporting high-visibility events, intended to be intentional public displays designed to captivate and engage the public through memorable experiences that may evoke a strong response and help in shaping public discourse, build community connections across a wide range of stakeholders, and expose those who engage in Islamophobic behavior, among others, those in the private sector. An opportunity to even identify those unwilling to join, support, or participate in combating Islamophobia.
The landmark recognition granted by the United Nations must be put to practical and effective use in combating Islamophobia.
The March 15th Forum has been formed with the aim of reaching the world, establishing a global network, including UN member states, relevant organizations within the UN system, international and regional organizations, civil society, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), so that they may institutionalize the International Day to Combat Islamophobia and work together to curb Islamophobia.