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Abstract

Canadian Muslims remain a somewhat silent and apprehensive community since the attacks of September 11, 2001. This exploratory qualitative study explores the perceptions and experiences of Vancouver's Muslim community post-9/11 from a critical race theory perspective. I assert that Canadian Muslims have become a racialized community post 9/11, facing racial stereotyping from state and enforcement officials as well as difficult experiences in their social and professional lives. Four focus groups were conducted in 2004-05 in Vancouver with adult Muslims. Participants narrated personal experiences in social interaction, workplace, travel, and perceptions of media portrayal and Canadian government legislation post 9/11. They also spoke about their fears, insecurities and emotions in face of overt and covert racism.