Why Muslims Face Pressure to Fit In America

Clear Facts

• Washington Post columnist Shadi Hamid argues Muslim Americans should not have to adopt the cultural mainstream to justify their place in the United States.
• He treats religious difference as a lasting part of a pluralistic society, not a problem to be erased through integration.
• Hamid says the pressure to assimilate comes from both sides of the political spectrum, even when it is framed differently.

Hamid argues that the expectation of assimilation exists on both sides of the political spectrum, regardless of whether the tone is welcoming or exclusionary.

"The deal is always the same: You can stay, but you have to become less yourself."

He further posits that those with traditional religious views are no less American than those who adopt secular lifestyles.

"A Muslim who prays five times a day and believes homosexuality is sinful is not less American than a Muslim who drinks alcohol and hasn’t been to a mosque in years."

The columnist concludes that America must allow various groups to change on their own terms rather than forcing a singular cultural identity.

Washington Post columnist argues Muslims shouldn’t have to assimilate into America

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