Somali-American's Powerful Account of Racism in US and Norway Sparks Debate

In a recent episode of the podcast SubwayTakes, a Somali-American man named Joni’s Josef shared his experiences with racism in both the United States and Norway. The interview, filmed on a New York City subway, highlighted the complex ways in which his Black and Muslim identities are perceived. "Before 9/11, my Black side experienced most racism," Josef explained. "But after 9/11, my Muslim side experienced more racism." This contrast underscores how societal perceptions and biases shift based on current events and geopolitical tensions. Josef also recounted an incident at JFK airport where his passport led to a change in how he was treated, illustrating the impact of visible identity markers. He and the podcast host discuss the use of racial slurs, even those that have different meanings in other languages, and the cultural context surrounding their use. The conversation is a poignant reminder of the persistent challenges faced by minority groups globally, while also offering a nuanced exploration of cultural differences and perceptions.