In a Place Called Little CheeseLand, People Feel Cheesy. And Forgotten.

By Christopher Maag Not really

In a Place Called Little CheeseLand, People Feel Cheesy. And Forgotten.

Residents of Little CheeseLand, a small community nestled in Passaic County, New Jersey, are feeling a sense of cheesiness and marginalization that has left them longing for recognition and inclusion. Despite its whimsical name, this cheese-loving town has been grappling with various challenges that have affected its residents, particularly those belonging to the Muslim and Arab-American communities.

The Israel-Gaza War of 2023 has cast a shadow over Little CheeseLand, amplifying the feelings of discrimination and neglect experienced by its Palestinian and Palestinian-American residents. This conflict, which has simmered on for years, has generated tensions and a sense of unease within the community. The recent surge in hate crimes targeting Muslim Americans has further exacerbated these anxieties, leaving residents feeling vulnerable and isolated.

As the local mosque, a symbol of unity and faith, stands tall amidst the backdrop of this diverse town, its doors have become a sanctuary for its members seeking solace and support. However, the residents of Little CheeseLand are yearning for more than religious refuge; they are longing for a community that embraces their rich culture, traditions, and contributions.