In the early hours of a February morning in 2008,  Daoud Abudiab [1] woke up to a call by the local fire department. The Muslim community leader was notified that there had been an attack on the Islamic Center of Columbia, the home of the Muslim community in Columbia, Tenn. The very mosque that he directed was defaced with racial slurs and burned to the ground [2].

For Abudiab, his family, and the Columbia community, the attack was a reminder of how hate can devastate a community; but also, a lesson that strength and unity can overcome tragedy.

Nearly four years later, his daughter reflects on the hate that she and her community experienced that day. This user-generated video is part of Nashville Public Television's award-winning Next Door Neighbors [3] series, which views the Tennessee city through the lens of its newest residents. 

The user-generated video campaign highlights what immigrants and refugees are doing to stand up to bias and create inclusion. It is only one of many local activities [4] that are part of the partnership between Not In Our Town and Nashville Public Television. 

To view more user-generated video responses to hate, click on the following links:

Rising Above Hate [5]

Immigrants Negative Experiences Inspire Them To Get Involved [6]

Armando's Interview [7]

Somalis at Legislative Plaza [8]