Unfortunately, in the USA, disagreements may quickly lead to violence. Hollywood has glorified violence to the extent that an average person may easily drift into the black hole of hatred and commit horrible crimes. Salman being a Muslim put him in a group most stereotyped and hated in the USA and Europe.
Racial discrimination has its roots in the creation of the USA. It has led to the destruction of Native American societies and culture, the exploitation of blacks as slaves, and tirades against Mexicans.
All the 3 major regions- Christianity, Islam, and Judaism continue to create conflicts, hatred, death, and destruction. Just look at 6000 miles of Holy land around Palestine. Very sad.