Mastodon
Boston launches poster campaign to combat Islamophobia
(AP) — Titled "What to do if you are witnessing Islamophobic harassment," the posters encourage people to engage with the person who is being targeted and to draw attention away from the harasser.
A PSA campaign in Boston aims to urge bystanders to address Islamophobia. Image courtesy of the city of Boston

BOSTON (AP) — Boston has launched a new public service campaign to fight Islamophobia by offering the public ways to address aggression toward others because of their appearance or beliefs.

The campaign launched Monday involves 50 posters that provide a step-by-step guide to handling when someone is being harassed. They will be posted on bus stop benches and other public places around the city.

[ad number=“1”]


Titled “What to do if you are witnessing Islamophobic harassment,” the posters encourage people to engage with the person who is being targeted and to draw attention away from the harasser.

A PSA campaign in Boston aims to urge bystanders to address Islamophobia. Image courtesy of the city of Boston

The technique is called “noncomplementary behavior” and is intended to disempower an aggressive person by countering the aggressor’s expectations.

“These posters are one tool we have to send the message that all are welcome in Boston,” Mayor Marty Walsh said. “Education is key to fighting intolerance, and these posters share a simple strategy for engaging with those around you.”

The city’s Islamic community lauded the campaign.

“We encourage all of our fellow Bostonians to apply the approach in these posters to anyone targeted — whether Muslim, Latino or otherwise,” said Suzan El-Rayess, civic engagement director at the Islamic Society of Boston Cultural Center.

San Francisco has a similar campaign. Thea Colman, whose sister had worked with San Francisco’s Bay Area Rapid Transit to have posters installed throughout that system, approached Walsh’s office.

The posters, designed by French artist Maeril, will stay up for six months.

[ad number=“2”]

Help us continue our bold reporting on religion
RNS believes that matters of faith and spirituality aren't just important; they shape our world. That's why we're committed to reporting on all the world's religions, and showing how faith, and faith leaders, affect policy, politics, education, science, and almost any other issue you may care about. As a nonprofit newsroom, we depend on readers, just like you, for our support. If you value the articles, commentary and podcasts we provide, consider making a donation today to ensure we can keep the news coming in 2025.
Deborah Caldwell, CEO and Publisher
Donate today