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Diversity in the United States

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Part One The United States population continues to increase in racial and ethnic diversity, therefore, it is pertinent that mental health professionals tailor their services to the needs of various cultural populations (Constantine, Kindaichi, Arorash, Donnelly, & Jung, 2002). The awareness that ethnic minorities experience negative consequences from being oppressed, resulted in the multicultural competence pedagogy and has helped counselors identify effective strategies to generate social change (Hage, 2003; Vera & Speight, 2003). Social norms that cause these injustices are identified, allowing for ethnic minorities to constitute and embrace empowerment. Moreover, this consciousness helps prevent therapists own bias’ from playing …show more content…

The loss of status in society, an inability to provide for one’s family, and unattained educational goals can lead to isolation and marginalization (Ahmed & Reddy, 2007). In addition, since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, Muslim immigrants have faced increased discrimination and racial profiling (Ghaffari & Ciftci, 2010). For example, Congressman Goode wished to preserve “traditional” values and beliefs by adopting strict immigration policies to prevent more Muslims from entering the U.S. This prejudicial letter was referencing the request to use the Quran for the swearing-in ceremony of a newly appointed Muslim congressman (Sue & Sue, 2012). Also, legislation such as the Patriot Act and travel restrictions have made Muslim immigrants vulnerable to unfair targeting, including home raids, unjustified arrests and detentions, and interrogation (Ahmed & Reddy, 2007; CAIR, 2006). The negative portrayal of Muslims and Islam in the media has exacerbated this discrimination and racial profiling. In a study conducted by Hasouneh and Kulwicki (2007) that looked at discrimination, trauma, and mental health among Arab Muslim women in the U.S., the authors found that 63% of respondents reported being discriminated against post-9/11. While this study looked only at Arab women, Arab and Muslim men share similar experiences of discrimination (Abu-Ras & Suarez, 2009). Muslim immigrants have also experienced

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