Chapter 5: Transitioning into the 21st Century

The beginning of the twenty-first century in the United States, following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, was a period marked by tragedy, pain, and some breakdown in relationships. The 9/11 attacks resulted in thousands of deaths in the United States, triggering the formation of the USA Patriot Act of 2001, the Homeland Security Act of 2002, as well as the invasion of Afghanistan by United States troops. Though Muslim organizations in the United States were quick to condemn the 9/11 attacks, harassment and hate crimes against Muslims and South Asians took place. Discrimination and profiling subsequently occurred, including in the school setting.