Blog 1: Race, Ethnicity, Culture, or Religion

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  Being in Morocco for a few days, I have noticed distinct differences in how religion is expressed here versus the United States. In the United States, I believe religion is more private as Americans will be known to be religious, but it is often not integrated into everyday public life as I have seen in Morocco. This is likely due to the first amendment offering freedom of religion and America separating church and state which allows for religious freedom, but also limiting religious involvement in government, school, etc.

Despite Morocco having freedom of religion, Islam is recognized as the national religion of the State. According to Britannica, the majority of the population is known to be Sunni Muslim. Furthermore, religion is a large part of Moroccan culture and daily life as it helps shape traditions and community. Coming from a nation where there is no religion of the state, this seemed contradictory to me as Americans are often less open to their religion in public. However, I now feel like the recognition of Islam as the national religion is not oppressive, but more of an act of tradition and a shared identity.


Throughout my time in Morocco, I have heard the call to prayer echo throughout the city multiple times a day. Rather than feeling like an act of forcing Islam onto others, the call to prayer creates a peaceful atmosphere and acts as a reminder of  the importance of faith. 


As a Christian who lives in the Bible belt, Christianity is the religion I encounter the most. In the South, Christians are often very vocal with their beliefs. However, I have noticed the way southern Christians express their religion is different from the way Muslims express theirs. For example, if you leave a football game, concert, or even walking through Tate, there will be people yelling, “You are going to hell! Repent your sins!” This way of preaching is used to scare people into Christianity by using an aggressive nature. In Morocco, not once have I seen Islam expressed in a forceful manner, but in a more peaceful way that is natural in daily life. 


As I am finishing up my first week in Morocco, my perception of Islam is far different from before. Before arriving, my perception was created from the oppressive media portrayals and the lack of encounters I have had in the United States. By being immersed in the Islamic culture present in Morocco, I am now able to see the beauty that is often not portrayed. Through the emphasis of community, calls to prayer, and the overall peaceful expression of faith, I am now more curious about Islam due to my experiences challenging the assumptions I previously had.


https://www.britannica.com/place/Morocco?utm_source=chatgpt.com

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