Brigitte Gabriel
Brigitte Gabriel is a Lebanese-American conservative activist and author who founded ACT for America in 2007. Born Hanan Qahwaji, she survived the Lebanese Civil War, an experience she describes as her "9/11" and the primary motivation for her activism. Gabriel has authored influential books, including "Because They Hate" and "Rise," and is a frequent commentator on national security. Through ACT for America—the largest grassroots anti-Muslim group in the U.S.—she has lobbied for legislation regarding national security and has successfully campaigned to influence school textbook content and local policy involving Islamic practices.
What critics say
Critics, including the Southern Poverty Law Center and the Council on American-Islamic Relations, label Gabriel a "radical Islamophobe." They argue her organization spreads "disinformation" and "anti-Muslim bigotry." Opponents point out historical inaccuracies in her autobiography, such as her timeline regarding the founding of Hezbollah. She is frequently criticized for making sweeping generalizations, such as her claim that any "practicing Muslim" cannot be a loyal citizen, which critics say alienates millions of peaceful Americans.
Why we follow
her
Supporters view Gabriel as a "truth-teller" who provides a vital warning about the "erosion of Western values." Her followers are moved by her personal story of survival, seeing her as a courageous survivor of "Islamic terror" who is uniquely qualified to speak on national security. They value her ability to mobilize grassroots activists to impact public policy and appreciate her "unapologetic" defense of Judeo-Christian values against what she describes as "radical infiltration."
