—FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—
JAMAICA, New York (September 13, 2001) – The Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) is extremely horrified and saddened by the tragedy in New York and Washington D.C. Our hearts and prayers are with the families of the victims of this horrible and despicable crime. We condemn these heinous act and call upon our political leaders and the media to act responsibly when speculating about the perpetrators.
Islam does not permit such unjust actions. Muslims are not terrorists and we condemn any terrorist attack against any people.
There were several hundred Muslims working in the World Trade Center. A large number of Muslims used to offer Friday prayer in the World Trade Center. There are many Muslims, who are still among the missing.
We appreciate and thank President Bush for acknowledging that American Muslims and Arab Americans are also saddened by this terrorist attack and making it clear that any hate crime against Muslims will not be tolerated.
Our hearts are with those who have lost loved ones in this terrible tragedy and our prayers are with the departed souls. The Islamic Circle of North America declares Friday, September 14, 2001, a day of mourning and prayers. All the Muslims are requested to make special prayers for the dead and the injured and also for the suffering families.
Things To Do
At the Masjid level:
* Muslim leadership is encouraged to meet with the Mayors and heads of the local police departments in their towns.
* Every Masjid is encouraged to establish a security committee that would monitor entrances and parking areas, especially around prayer times.
* Report suspicious packages to the police.
* Document descriptions of suspicious people or vehicles.
* Arrange meetings with the leadership of other faiths and setup press conferences and issue joint statements.
* Contact local Hospitals and encourage Muslims to donate blood.
At the Personal level:
* Use caution when in public. This is a time of high emotion and only Sabr and supplication to Allah are our best resources.
* If verbally attacked in public, remain calm and be patient.
* Donate blood at your local Red Cross. (1-800-GIVE-LIFE)
* Sisters are being requested to stay out of public areas for the next few days. We are not suggesting that we lock ourselves in our homes; however, we do need to be cautious and prudent.
Toll-Free Number to Report Cases of Discrimination
If you experience any discrimination, please remain patient and do not respond. Report any such incident to ICNA by calling us toll-free at 1-877-363-ICNA (1-877-363-4262) or 1-800-522-FAIR
