Group gathers to protect targeted international students

A student group is forming on campus so Muslim women, especially those wearing the hijab -- a scarf-like head covering -- don't bear the brunt of any hostility in the wake of Tuesday's terrorist attacks.\nThe group met Thursday in Ballantine Hall, but more volunteers are needed.\n"These women need and deserve the support of concerned students across campus in order to assure they can go about their days safely," wrote group organizer Kathryn Bryan, a student, in an e-mail sent to various individuals and academic departments.\nIn the days following Tuesday's bomb, some international students, Muslims and students who appear to be from another country have been the target of aggression. Some Muslim Web sites shut down because of the enormous amount of hate mail they received. Some chat rooms have posted hate mail targeted at Muslims.\nNurakmal Yunos, a Muslim student, reported being attacked after she greeted a friend in Arabic. Other students report having racial slurs yelled at them or being pushed.\nDean of Students Richard McKaig said he didn't hear of any additional reports, but emphasized that it doesn't mean there weren't any.\n"I can't say with certainty," he said.\nStill, international students, people who look like they are from another country and Muslims on campus are being warned to be on guard.\nThe International Center, in addition to other campus groups warned students against going out Tuesday night. The Muslim Student Union's Web site, www.indiana.edu/~msuweb, posted tips for Muslims on staying safe that, in part, advises them to keep a low profile and watch the news. \nHarassment will not be tolerated at IU, said Bloomington Chancellor Sharon Brehm. Brehm said students will be held responsible for their actions. She joined the racial incidents team in endorsing seven principles and actions that range from reporting intimidating behavior, being aware of rumors and reaching out in support of victims.\n"Each person on this campus is an individual, who is entitled to be safe and secure, and must be treated with respect and dignity," she said.\nAbeer Tawbawi, a senior, is one of many Muslim women on campus who's worried for herself and community. She said she can feel the resentment on campus and believes she's being watched more than ever. Tawbawi emphasized that Muslims in the U.S., while being targeted, are also mourning for the victims.\n"The acts that were done don't represent our culture or religion in any way," she said. "We all condemn violence."\nAlthough she doesn't wear the hijab, she is taking steps for be safe. She's taking rides with friends instead of walking home.\n"I've never felt unsafe," Tawbawi said, "but now I do"