WINDSOR, Ontario – Experiencing first-hand prejudice, a University of Windsor Muslim student organized an open discussion for Muslim and non-Muslim students Monday, in an effort to break down stereotypes and suggest possible solutions.

“When I wore the scarf I saw first-hand the prejudice,” the University’s student, Admira Konjic, told Windsor Star.

“I could see it in how other students and professors would treat me. I felt very uncomfortable and felt like I was targeted when they were speaking to me.”

Konjic, vice president of student advocacy for the university’s student alliance, organized the discussion titled ‘Debunking the Myth: What is Islamophobia,’ on a subject closely linked to her personal experience.

The fourth-year criminology student said her goal with the event was to create a space where people felt comfortable discussing the sometimes tricky topic.

“I decided to host a panel with different professors and students discussing what Islamophobia means, what Islam stands for, how they identify as allies, as followers of the faith and how other students can help out,” she said.

Konjic said that the biggest problem is that people don’t ask questions, they just assume.

“This is a dominant issue on our campus and we are trying to find ways to combat it,” explained Konjic.

“There have been issues with professors that have a prejudice against women who wear a headscarf and people that have the Muslim faith.”

University of Windsor graduate and social justice activist Mohamed Al-Moayad agrees.

“It’s amazing how subtle or hidden Islamophobia or racism can be,” the 25-year-old Al-Moayad said. “A lot of people don’t recognize it and a lot of times they just (think) it’s the political opinion someone is trying to push aggressively. A lot of times it’s just hidden under the surface.”

Jocelyn Gates, a non-Muslim student at the University of Windsor, was one of five panelists who participated in the event out of a desire to learn.

“I’m here … to be a better ally,” she told CBC, explaining the event was about education, not hate.

Another panelist, Ahmed Khalfia, said he’s faced Islamophobia in Windsor and described it as a growing problem in need of a solution.

“I think the first step to solving a problem or an issue we have in society is starting a conversation,” said the fourth-year student.

“Today I think is a great way to start that through this panel and through this discussion.”