Ask Me No Questions

Content Warning: This section references Islamophobia, sectarian violence, and colonialism. 

Ask Me No Questions is set against the backdrop of the early 2000s in the United States, a period profoundly impacted by the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. This defining moment in modern American history brought both significant shifts in US immigration policy and heightened scrutiny of immigrant communities, especially those from Muslim-majority countries. The post-9/11 era saw the introduction of stringent security measures like the Patriot Act, legislation that expanded the surveillance powers of law enforcement agencies for the purpose of counterterrorism. The new climate of enhanced security and cultural tension created a notable rise in racial profiling, hate crimes, and discrimination against Muslims and those perceived to be Muslim. The atmosphere of distrust and fear permeated many aspects of daily life, affecting not only individuals but entire communities.

Equally important to the novel is the history of Bangladesh. In 1947, British colonial rule over India came to an end with the creation of two Muslim states, East and West Pakistan, situated on either side of India. The partition, driven by religious divisions (principally between Hindu and Muslim communities), caused massive and often bloody displacements that had lasting geographical, cultural, and social impacts.