Muslim Neighbors Working Together for Peace and Understanding

We Americans are experiencing shock and disbelief as the details unfold about the Fort Hood shootings. Our first concern should center on the innocent victims of this act of mass murder. We should console, pray for, and support the grieving families in every way possible. As a nation we should put politics aside and unite with a single purpose to heal and further advance the values of our country. America is unique among all nations in its ability to respond to tragedy in healthy ways.

What happened at Fort Hood follows is one of the biggest fears of the American Muslim community. One deranged person, claiming to be Muslim, single-handedly murders innocent people creating another national tragedy. The ensuing mayhem invites anger and backlash against millions of peace loving and patriotic Americans who are Muslims. National and local American Muslim organizations immediately issued strong condemnation of the event and called for calm. Locally, at the Islamic Center of Southern California’s Friday prayer services on November 6, the Muslim community reiterated the unequivocal condemnation of Major Nidal Malik Hasan’s horrific actions. In a show of unity, the Los Angeles Mayor, LA County Sherriff and LA Police Department all let it be known that they stand with the Muslim community during this tragedy.

As our Army’s top officer, General George Casey has eloquently said “Our diversity, not only in our Army, but in our country, is a strength. And as horrific as this tragedy was, if our diversity becomes a casualty, I think that’s worse,”

American Muslims have the responsibility to further define themselves and lead the internal battle against Islamic extremism worldwide. Similar to other people of faith and conscience, American Muslims are inherently opposed to extremist beliefs and vehemently condemn acts of violence. They sometimes, however, do not communicate this as loudly and clearly as they should, thus leading to a false perception of Islam and Muslims. This is further aggravated by agenda-driven, special interest groups. Another factor contributing to this perception problem is that American Muslims, generally speaking, are a quiet and hard working community of first generation immigrants focusing on establishing their American dream. Islamic organizations need to encourage the community at large to get to know the true nature of their peaceful fellow citizens and neighbors who are Muslims.

The interfaith community needs to lead the way in fighting religious prejudice. They need to stand against the merchants of hate who disseminate false information about Islam and Muslims and are now having a field day with this heartbreaking event. Authentic American Muslim organizations should be relied upon to seek accurate information.  

If we turn on each other or compromise our American principles, then indecency will prevail. Our country needs to focus on long term solutions that will prevent the reoccurrence of these horrible acts of hatred and desperation. This can be achieved if Americans from all faiths and ethnicities come together based on mutual respect and understanding in order to strengthen our bond as a nation. This is an effective and healthy response in the aftermath of such a horrific tragedy.

Levent Akbarut
Islamic Congregation of La Canada Flintridge