Twitter responds hilariously to Fox News' Islamophobic Birmingham comments
- Text by Shelley Jones
Xenophobia is not funny. But the best way to beat a bully is to laugh at them. Such is the genius of #foxnewsfacts a satirical hashtag, trending on Twitter at the moment, in reaction to Fox News’ claims yesterday that Birmingham is a no-go zone for non-Muslims.
Capturing the height of the anti-Islam hysteria sweeping the world after the Charlie Hebdo attacks in Paris, the Fox News’ report – which features ‘terrorism expert’ Steven Emerson – seems to suggest that Birmingham is some sort of Islamic state and you’re constantly under threat in London if you don’t wear a burka.
The claims are, of course, absolutely, laughably ridiculous – although terrifying when you consider Fox News is a legitimate news organisation that many Americans will rely on for information. In fact, the comments exemplify a common problem in public rhetoric at the moment where people confound Islam, in all its varied factions, with extremism. There is no ‘evil empire’ guys. C’mon, wake up.
Thankfully, Twitter has showed that not everyone is buying into the propaganda. Inspired by the humorous responses, we’ve curated some of our favourites. Check them out below.
Steven Emerson has since apologised for the comments, calling them a ‘terrible error’.
You might like
An intimate window into New York’s ’70s lesbian scene
We Others — An exhibition at The Photographer’s Gallery combines Donna Gottschalk’s unearthed photographs of LGBTQ+ activists and friends, along with Hélène Gianneccini’s written histories.
Written by: Miss Rosen
The Pope has declared holy war on AI
The New Butlerian Jihad — In his first encyclical letter, Pope Leo XIV addressed the increasing pervasiveness of artificial intelligence as a threat to the already fragile structures of society. Newsletter columnist Emma Garland makes sense of it all.
Written by: Emma Garland
On the frontlines of Britain’s ’80s protest movements
Protest and Equality — Against a backdrop of Thatcherism, hospital closures and global conflict, photographer Sarah Saunders was a documentarian of the long decade’s effects on society, as well as the communities actively resisting it.
Written by: Miss Rosen
6 years on from George Floyd, how much more accessible is the outdoors for People of Colour?
Second Nature — A new report by The Mix Global highlights continued barriers that marginalised folks face when exploring nature, despite attempts at greater representation. Phil Young takes stock of how far we’ve come.
Written by: Phil Young
A stark, confronting window into the global cocaine trade
Sangre Blanca — Mads Nissen’s new book is a close-up look at various stages of the drug’s journey, from production to consumption, and the violence that follows wherever it goes.
Written by: Isaac Muk
Venice Biennale will not award artists from Israel & Russia due to war crime accusations
Art Not Genocide — Both countries will still be allowed to exhibit work at their respective pavilions, but be excluded from judging considerations, as they have leaders facing arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court.
Written by: Noah Petersons
