Statement on the San Diego Islamic Center Murders

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NATIONAL ARAB AMERICAN BAR ASSOCIATION

The National Arab American Bar Association strongly condemns the horrific shooting and deadly attack at the Islamic Center of San Diego. Houses of worship are sacred spaces meant for peace, prayer, and community–not violence and fear.

We stand in solidarity with the victims, their families, and the entire Muslim community during this deeply painful time. An attack on the Islamic Center mosque and elementary school and those gathered in worship and community is not only an act of violence, but an act of anti-Muslim terror meant to instill fear and trauma within an already vulnerable community. Acts of hatred and violence directed at Arab

The rising hateful rhetoric against Muslims and Arabs, especially from officials in public office, political candidates, and the media, is increasing divisiveness, racism, xenophobia, and hate. As this incident demonstrates, Muslim and Arab communities are being specifically targeted because of ethnicity and religion. As attorneys and advocates committed to justice, civil rights, and equality under the law, we stand firm against the normalization of anti-Muslim and anti-Arab hate, racism, and political violence. We reject those who seek to dehumanize and intimidate our communities. Violence targeting communities based on faith or identity has no place in our society.

We call upon leaders, institutions, and community members across the country to condemn anti-Muslim and anti-Arab rhetoric that enables hatred and violence against these communities to grow unchecked. It is the responsibility of all of us to unite against hate and to protect the safety, dignity, and humanity of these communities and the fundamental right of every individual to worship freely and safely.

Words alone are insufficient to address the alarming rise in anti-Muslim and anti-Arab hate and discrimination. We encourage all to engage in education, accountability, and action.  

To support the families affected by the tragedies, the fund started by the Islamic Center of San Diego  can be found here: https://goodbricks.org/campaign/icsd.org/official-icsd-victim---family-support-fund

National Arab American Bar Association

To learn more about NAABA, its board, and mission, please visit: www.arabambar.org.

For inquiries, please contact: info@arabambar.org.