SHOOTING CONDEMNED…BUT….MUHAMMAD SHAFIQ INTERIM IMAM AT ROCHESTER
November 14, 2009
Muhammad Shafiq
This essay of course is not to justify Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan’s action even in the smallest way. The Muslim community in America as a whole, and Islamic Center of Rochester in particular, has condemned the action and have shared their condolences with victims’ families.
Whether the shooting has to do anything with his faith as being a Muslim or not, the incident has undoubtedly created fear and anxiety among American Muslims.
Recently, when I conversed with some Muslims in our community, many asked me: Yes, Hasan’s act was horrible, but horrible acts are committed daily in America and the faiths of those perpetrators are never stated; why do the media then expose Islam alone? I paused and said: Get involved, be proactive and reach out to bring about a positive change.
Some Muslim youth are worried about their professional career in America after this incident. One mother asked me how her daughter can get a job now. Another asked can he change his name to hide his identity? I said I do know that it has happened in American history. Some ethnic and religious people changed their names to hide their identities for better jobs, but today, America’s strength is based on diversity, and we as Muslims must strengthen this to keep America as a torch bearer in diversity in our modern world.
Media as well as our community leaders — political, social or religious — should not exploit this or any tragedy to serve their own agendas. We shall work together to build a society based on respectful dialogue and mutual understanding with compassion. When fear and tension would define our environment, it would weaken the foundation of our country.
My advice for young Muslims is not to fall in despair and lose hope. Be proactive and engage yourself in community work. You shall be proud that the little work that Muslims have done in Rochester has led to great support and mutual appreciation. In response to the Democrat and Chronicle article on Nov. 10, many people called, some asking questions but others were for moral support. One sent this e-mail in support to the Islamic Center:
“The events at Fort Hood could not have come at a worse time for American Muslims. From me to you … I am sorry for any negative publicity or feelings it generates. Random acts of violence can happen to any community.
“America is a great country, with a great concept, but people are only human. Maintain your pride, your faith and your strength.”
Bishop Matthew Clark of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rochester also called. I thank the bishop and all others for their moral support on behalf of the Muslim community of Rochester.
Shafiq is a professor and executive director of the Center for Interfaith Studies and Dialogue at Nazareth College, and interim Imam at the Islamic Center of Rochester.
http://www.democratandchronicle.com/article/20091114/OPINION02/911140316/1008/OPINION/Shootings-condemned
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