By Some people will say I am crazy, while others will agree and applaud the idea. It is no hidden secret that talk shows do gain much attention and cover many topics of discussion. But if you reside in the United States, as I do, you will notice that most talk shows have celebrities, or well-known “in the industry” types appointed for these positions.
Sadly, I am not known, nor am I famous, but a part of me feels it is not worth giving up on being a face and voice for Muslim women.
As I am a huge fan of “The Real” talk show, I began to analyze the show and its cast members. I noticed that this particular show has a diverse crew. Hispanic, Asian, Bi-racial, and African American representation, but no one to represent Muslims. I always joke to family and friends on how I would love to be on such a show as the elected Muslim woman.
I mean, COME ON! Sooner or later, someone’s going to agree with me and put forth the idea to the entertainment industry.
It is not okay that so much goes on in the world and Muslim women are not given the “spotlight” to freely speak on.
You know, at one point, I was so determined to get the attention of the talk show, “The Real,” that I submitted a letter through their website. I also desperately DM’ed their IG page as well as the Warner Brothers Entertainment IG as well. Weird, I know! But I felt that the idea was necessary and crucial. It is not okay that so much goes on in the world and Muslim women are not given the “spotlight” to freely speak on. My letter of submission was the following:
“Dear The Real,
My name is Amina Radwan. I am a 25-year-old, married, Middle Eastern American woman. I have watched your show for several years. I appreciate the diversity of topics and the diversity of your cast. Women of color empowering each other, what a beautiful sight to see! I truly feel that the show is missing someone like myself. I feel that I could really contribute a different perspective; that of an American Middle Eastern Muslim women. I would love to be a part of this successful show. I appreciate the time you have taken to read my letter, and I look forward to your response.
Respectfully,
Amina Radwan”
How adorable! I felt like a kid writing to the president, asking to BE the president! Although the site only allowed a certain amount of characters, I tried my hardest to express how important it is to have a Muslim face on entertainment networks.
You know, I watch the show and I say to myself, “Wow, if only they could have the insight of what Muslim women deal with when it comes to that particular issue.”
I understand that we already have well-known Muslim women such as Amani Al Khatahtbeh (founder of Muslim Girl), Ibtihaj Muhammad (American Olympic Athlete), Ilham Omar (US Representative), Linda Sarsour (American activist), and many more who pave the way for Muslims in the industry.
I am referring to the millions of “average” Muslim women who live day by day, work day in and day out, are someone’s wife and/or mother, etc. We need the voice of someone who is relatable. Someone who can discuss the issues and concerns Muslim women face daily.
You know, I watch the show and I say to myself, “Wow, if only they could have the insight of what Muslim women deal with when it comes to that particular issue.”
Unfortunately, there is no one currently on these shows to be that face and voice for the Muslim community. I hope that one day, even if it’s not me *sad face*, these entertainment networks will take into consideration the benefit and necessity of having a Muslim women represent for her community, as the others do for theirs.
But when it’s all said and done, I would be more than happy to be a Muslim woman taking on the role of a voice for our community! #voteAminaForTheRealShow
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