To the editor: Because the imam of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Neighborhood in Philadelphia, which serves 1000’s of Muslims within the area, I discovered the current assault on the Islamic Heart of San Diego deeply heartbreaking (“San Diego Islamic Heart suspects had been self-radicalized, left manifesto behind, officers say,” Might 18). Daily, I see individuals come to the mosque looking for peace, prayer, reflection and neighborhood. I additionally often meet guests of various backgrounds who come merely to study extra about Islam and their Muslim neighbors. Homes of worship ought to at all times stay locations of security and compassion.
From an Ahmadiyya Muslim perspective, an assault on any mosque, church, synagogue or temple is an assault on humanity itself. We mourn the victims and pray for the households affected by this tragedy, whereas additionally recognizing the braveness of those that acted to guard others.
The holy Quran teaches that killing one harmless particular person is like killing all mankind, whereas saving one life is like saving all humanity. At a time of rising division and hateful rhetoric, communities should come along with empathy, understanding and mutual respect.
Violence and hatred can by no means construct a stronger society. Solely compassion, justice and honest human connection can do this.
Frasat Ahmad, Philadelphia
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To the editor: Within the aftermath of the doubtless terrorist killings of three people on the Islamic Heart in San Diego, one would hope and count on that leaders from each side of the aisle, together with the president, can be fast to prominently and categorically condemn it, and to precise assist for that neighborhood. Sadly, the nation has been met with silence.
The language utilized by the president and plenty of in his get together has mirrored intolerance and contempt for non-white immigrants and Muslims.
When a bunch of individuals is dehumanized by these in authority, others take discover and a few could act to hurt these they’ve come to see because the enemy who should not welcome in our nation.
The unwillingness of our leaders to sentence non secular hatred and violence is all however sure to spawn extra of it.
Oren Spiegler, Peters Township, Pa.
