Dear Imams and Presidents,
As Salamu Alaikum
We request you to hold prayer services during the Friday prayers for the victims and their families of the Boston terrorist bombings and the shoot out today. This trend started by Muslim Peace Coalition USA has achieved nationwide acceptance.
Furthermore express the appreciation that you feel for the law enforcement agencies who have worked tirelessly to catch the perpetrators since the bombings.
Islam-haters will shamelessly exploit the bombings and use the internet and the right wing media to further demonize Islam as a violent ideology alien to American way of life and the US soil.They will be joined by the Russian ultranationalists, European fascists, Hindu supremacists, Israeli settlers and ultranationalists from places such as Burma an Sri Lanka.
It is vitally important that our consistent denunciation of Al-Qaeda extremism is not getting through. To get our message out more efficiently let the American born Muslims, especially women and youth take the more prominent role while talking to the media. They will be better communicators.
Let the inter-faith and civil rights colleagues, who know us as individuals and as community, and many of whom are also experts on Islam, speak out about our ideology and tremendous contribution to the American society; since the times when Muslim slave labor started building America.
Most importantly, establish, enhance and accelerate programs to teach Muslim American youth peaceful ways of dissent. Constant demonization by Islamophobes and its acceptance by mainstream politicians and right wing media has put them under tremendous stress. Many are depressed and some may be angry. Muslim Peace Coalition (www.muslimpeacecoalitionusa.org) can help you with such programs.
Lastly, organize the cooperation with the law enforcement agencies in a systemic way at your mosques but without violating the congregants constitutional rights.
May God protect and guide us.