Civil rights attorney Mariam Aydah knows what it’s like to be singled out for being a Muslim while practicing — and studying ­— law.

A few incidents stand out in particular. Once, while handling a case, she was mistaken for a client, even after co-counsel introduced her as one of the client’s lawyers. Another time, while in college, a professor who often associated Muslims with terrorists offhandedly rejected a paper she wrote that presented Islam in a positive light.

And then there was the time she was working at a courthouse where everyone was familiar with her, but that didn’t stop security officials from holding her up in line to scan her bag – over and over again – in the metal detector, as people behind her began peering over to see what was going on.

“I was asked to repeatedly put my bag through the scanner,” said Aydah, a lawyer with the Massachusetts chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. She offered to let the court officers open her bag to inspect it.

But, “the officers refused to open it and kept running it through the scanner, making a spectacle in front of a growing line of onlookers.”

The court officers finally opened the bag and discovered their “security concern” was merely … lip gloss.

“I felt singled out, embarrassed, and deeply offended. It was a stark reminder of how being visibly Muslim can subject you to unwarranted scrutiny, even in professional settings where you’re supposed to belong,” she said.

Aydah is not alone. A high-profile case of anti-Muslim bias was arguably on full display recently during the failed appointment of Adeel Mangi for the U.S. Court of Appeals. Lawmakers grilled Mangi, a prominent Pakistani-American attorney, with loaded questions about his views on 9/11 and the Hamas attack on Israel.

It is against this backdrop that Aydah is organizing the “Future Muslim Lawyers” panel discussion in Roxbury on Feb. 1 at the Islamic Society of Boston Cultural Center. At the event, over a dozen Muslim lawyers will discuss diverse opportunities within the legal field and “break down misconceptions about law.”

Sampan interviewed Aydah about the event by email earlier this month. Following is an edited version of that exchange.

Sampan: What are a few unique considerations people of Muslim faith may consider, if any, when pursuing law?

Aydah: Muslims considering a career in law often grapple with the question of whether it is possible to uphold Islamic values while participating in the American legal system. For many, the biggest challenge is overcoming the stereotype that “lawyers are liars.” This stigma not only creates doubt but also leads to hesitation about whether a career in law aligns with their religious and moral beliefs.

… For example, many believe it is haram (“prohibited”) to work as a defense attorney for those accused of serious crimes, without understanding the ethical and constitutional role lawyers play. Defense attorneys, for example, are not there to condone crimes but to ensure that every person’s rights are protected, and that justice is fairly administered…

… Personally, I experienced this struggle when I decided to pursue law. My family, like many in the Muslim community, was initially concerned about whether this path would compromise my principles. I spent a lot of time deepening my understanding of Islam while learning about the legal system to reconcile these concerns.

For instance, I discovered that the values of honesty, integrity, and justice—which are central to Islam—are also fundamental principles in law. It’s not only possible but necessary for Muslims to bring these values into the legal profession, where they can act as a force for good…

Sampan: Do you have concerns that some people interested in law will not pursue the field because of the pervasive anti-Muslim bias in the U.S.? The recent story of Adeel Mangi and his failed bid for the U.S. Court of Appeals seems to just be the latest example, on top of many.
Aydah: Yes, anti-Muslim bias is a significant concern and can deter many from pursuing a career in law. Stories like Adeel Mangi’s failed judicial nomination are stark reminders of the challenges Muslims face in the legal profession, even when they are highly qualified and accomplished.

When I entered law school, I expected a non-diverse, potentially hostile environment. My personal experiences growing up in Palestine, where oppression was a daily reality, fueled my determination to use the law as a tool for justice. My mindset was to get through law school, earn my degree, and use it to make a difference.

I was fortunate to attend Western New England University, which was far more diverse and supportive than I anticipated. The faculty and student body were welcoming, and I was able to thrive in an environment that valued inclusivity. Unfortunately, I know this isn’t the reality for many Muslim law students across the country.

Outside of academia, the legal profession still grapples with systemic bias. As an attorney recently admitted to the bar, I am beginning to witness the subtle and overt ways anti-Muslim sentiment can manifest in the workplace and the courtroom. Despite this, I believe the resilience and determination of the newer generations of Muslims will shine through.

Younger Muslims are increasingly breaking barriers, pursuing fields once considered inaccessible, and challenging stereotypes. They embody the values of their faith while striving to create positive change in their communities. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught us, “The best of you are those who bring the greatest benefit to others.” For Muslims, this teaching underscores the importance of contributing to society, even in the face of adversity….

Sampan: What are some ways people who do not practice Muslim faith or who are not of Arabic background, can help speak up against anti-Muslim and anti-Arabic biases?
Aydah: There are many ways non-Muslims can be allies and actively work to combat anti-Muslim and anti-Arab biases. It starts with education and a willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue. Stereotypes often arise from a lack of understanding, and even small steps toward learning can have a significant impact.

One key way to support, is to show up. Attend events, workshops, and panels where Muslims share their experiences, culture, and faith. Simply being present signals solidarity and a willingness to learn. Ask thoughtful questions, listen with an open mind, and challenge your own preconceptions.

Cultural competency is another critical area. Non-Muslims can educate themselves about Islam and Arab culture, even at a basic level. For example, understanding that Muslims value honesty, justice, and compassion can go a long way in countering harmful stereotypes. When you encounter misinformation or derogatory comments, speak up. Being an ally means using your voice to challenge bias when you see it, even in spaces where Muslims aren’t present to advocate for themselves.

I’ve personally seen how impactful open dialogue can be. During my undergraduate studies, I had a professor who openly expressed anti-Muslim and anti-Arab sentiments in class. He even listed books he’d written portraying Muslims as terrorists. When I submitted a paper that presented Islam in a positive light, he refused to grade it and demanded I write an entirely new essay. Instead of complying, I requested a phone call to discuss the situation. In that hour-long conversation, he admitted he hadn’t read my paper and had only skimmed the opening paragraphs. As I explained Islamic principles, he seemed shocked, as though hearing these concepts for the first time. By the end of the call, he gave me a passing grade and expressed interest in learning more.

This experience reinforced the power of education and direct dialogue. While I declined further discussions with that professor, it was clear he had never truly engaged with a Muslim before. That one conversation shifted his perspective, even slightly….

This story, which appears in the Lunar New Year Issue of Sampan, is part of a collection of stories on various types of activism. This story has some minor edits made shortly after it was posted to shorten it. If you would like to suggest a person to profile, please email asmith@sampan.org.