Reflecting on the ACM-IAU Panel on Antisemitism and Islamophobia

Dr. William Brustein, Dr. Yumna Masarwa, and Dr. Francesco Colin present at the Antisemitism and Islamophobia panel at ACM-IAU in Aix-en-Provence.

Dr. William Brustein discusses the history of Antisemitism ACM-IAU in Aix-en-Provence.

On 26 March 2025, I had the opportunity to attend a significant panel on Antisemitism and Islamophobia at ACM-IAU. The panel was moderated by Professor Philip Breeden and featured three insightful panelists: Dr. William Brustein, Dr. Yumna Masarwa, and Dr. Francesco Colin. Each brought a unique perspective to the historical and present-day manifestations of these forms of hatred and prejudice.

Dr. Brustein opened the discussion by focusing on antisemitism, presenting demographic data and emphasizing its continued presence in contemporary society. His presentation laid the groundwork for understanding the enduring marginalization of Jewish communities over time.

(From left) Dr. Francesco Colin, Dr. Yumna Masarwa, and Dr. William stand with moderator Professor Philip Breeden.

Dr. Yumna Masarwa offered a comprehensive analysis of Islamophobia, particularly the increase in hate crimes targeting Muslims—especially women who wear the hijab. She referenced the UN's definition of Islamophobia and placed these trends within a historical framework that traced their origins to the Crusades and colonialism. Drawing on Edward Said’s theory of Orientalism, she explored how such prejudices are constructed and sustained in Western discourse.

Dr. Francesco Colin built bridges between the past and present, discussing events such as the Dreyfus Affair and World War I’s role in the emergence of Zionism. He highlighted the nuanced and often misunderstood distinction between antisemitism and anti-Zionism, emphasizing how easily the two are conflated in today’s discourse.

Notably, the War on Gaza was also part of the conversation. The panelists explored how current geopolitical conflicts intensify both antisemitism and Islamophobia globally, reflecting on how narratives around identity, nationalism, and resistance can fuel this polarization.

As a student studying in the Mediterranean, I found the discussion deeply resonant. It underscored that these issues are not distant or abstract, they are shaping policies, identities, and everyday experiences around us.

The ACM-IAU community of students and professors created a brave and safe space to openly discuss the War on Gaza and its influence on both antisemitism and Islamophobia worldwide. It was a rare and meaningful opportunity to witness a dialogue where political history, views, and backgrounds were expressed in a manner that was not only respectful but socially aware. This panel served not just as a history lesson, but as a vital reminder of the ongoing need to confront discrimination in all its forms, with empathy and intellectual honesty.