Aftereffect of 9-11: A Call to Balance Patriotism and Multiculturalism in the Classroom

The events of September 11, 2001, have had a large impact on the psyche and politics of America. The impact has filtered its way down to education. The aftereffect of September 11 has caused educators to confront the issue of balancing a need for patriotism and multiculturalism in the classroom. Patriotism, intolerance (of terrorists), and nationalism seemingly contrast with the multicultural education goals of tolerance, understanding of other perspectives, and internationalism. In this article, the roots of misunderstanding and prejudice toward people of Middle Eastern or Muslim descent are explored within American society. The authors then give suggestions to modify the curriculum, reduce prejudice, deal with intolerance, and stand unified in the midst of this national crisis.