As we approach the 10th anniversary of the tragic events of 9/11, we all can recall where we were and what we were doing that horrific day. American Muslims with their fellow citizens stood united in grief and resolve. They completely and unequivocally denounced and rejected those who committed these murderous attacks, all acts of terrorism, and violence. Nevertheless, American Muslims and Islam itself became targets of misconceptions, attacks, hate acts/speech, and fear mongering by some media outlets, some political leaders, and even some high profile religious leaders.
Since 9/11, Americans across faith beliefs and cultures continue to face new, divisive, and troubling challenges. Muslims, Southeast Asians, Arabs, and others face multitudes of backlash reactions that are still sadly with us today. Islamophobia and xenophobia are on the rise. Recent congressional hearings singling out Muslims in relation to homegrown terrorism, and the anti-Sharia bills became the norm. They added more fuel to the fire of scapegoating, misinformation, and finger pointing.
As we continue to live in such time of great civil and religious discord, we look to our collective faith teachings and principles for healing. That is the light at the end of this never-ending threat to our unity and national stability. We count on our collective religious teachings and faith to create a generous, kind, respectful, and understanding nation and world.
