• By Suwanti
• Saturday, August 23, 2025

But over time, minorities gain confidence and feel accepted. By meeting and talking frequently, we become better acquainted. As we get to know each other better, prejudices fade away.

Jakarta (ANTARA) – Ai Yuliansah clearly remembers the moment she witnessed a mosque under construction suddenly being stormed by a mob and cordoned off by police.

The incident occurred in 2021, during a time when the pandemic was disrupting social activities. Regrettably, the intolerant conflict against the Ahmadiyah community in Garut has continued.

As Chairperson of the Lajnah Imaillah of Garut Regency, Ai observed how the members of the Ahmadiyah women’s community that she led felt discomfort, sadness, disappointment, and fear all at once.

“I saw mothers holding their children. They were crying, they were confused, they were wondering what was happening and why,” Ai said.

According to the victim’s account of the forced cessation of construction of the Ahmadiyah mosque in Nyalindung Village, Ngamplang Village, Cilawu District, the mob came from a distant village and was not recognized by local residents.

Ai said that incidents of intolerance like this rob the victims of their sense of security. They must endure psychological trauma, as their daily lives are filled with anxiety, especially when there are crowds.

The Ahmadiyah community also feels uncomfortable when their presence is perceived as a threat. They feel constantly monitored and suspected. For the victims, this is subtle, yet painful.

“Even though we were born and raised in that environment, we interacted like other residents,” said Ai.

“Situations like this often make Ahmadi women feel like they have to ‘hide themselves,’ holding back from speaking out too much so as not to attract more attention,” she added.

However, this fear doesn’t necessarily cause Ai and her community to isolate themselves. Tolerance for differences must be cultivated and nurtured. They are determined to be an integral part of community life.

Lajnah Imaillah doesn’t want to be trapped in the label of “minority group.” They’re changing their mindset because what’s needed isn’t defining boundaries, but rather a willingness to be present and open the door to others.

This can take various forms, such as actively participating in humanitarian activities like blood donation, community service, and community health posts (Posyandu) regardless of religion. These actions, over time, create emotional bonds that can erode stigma.

Also read: Handling of intolerance cases is requested to listen to women’s voices

source https://www.antaranews.com/berita/5059633/gerak-damai-perempuan-melawan-intoleransi?utm_source=antaranews&utm_medium=desktop&utm_campaign=popular_right