In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, South Asian communities experienced heightened scrutiny and backlash, prompting an urgent response from various organizations. Many agencies had to balance immediate community concerns, such as hate violence and deportation threats, with the foundational work necessary for their sustainability. Groups like Raksha and others adapted their services to cater to the amplified needs of the Arab, Middle Eastern, Muslim, and South Asian communities. Efforts included advocacy against profiling and discrimination, support for affected workers, and mobilizing local communities toward greater activism and awareness.
In the immediate days following 9/11, calls from survivors of gender-based violence dropped severely because of special registration and the constant fear of being targeted by government systems.
After 9/11, new organizations formed while others had to shift their programs and services in response to emerging needs in the Arab, Middle Eastern, Muslim, and South Asian (AMEMSA) communities.
Organizations such as Raksha in Atlanta struggled to respond to community needs in the wake of 9/11, as did many others.
Local organizers at groups such as Desis Rising Up and Moving (DRUM) in New York City mobilized communities who were targeted due to their identity.
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