Washington, DC., September 21, 2016 –- The American Muslim Institution (AMI) is outraged and saddened by the bombing attacks in New York City and New Jersey, for which Ahmad Khan Rahami, a naturalized US citizen, is currently under investigation.
We are thankful that the acts did not result in any serious injuries or fatalities. Thankfully several unexploded devices, apparently planted by the accused, were retrieved by law enforcement and rendered harmless before they could do any damage.
We strongly condemn this act of terror, which appears to have been carried out by a man professing allegiance to terrorist organizations.
As Americans, we sympathize with those hurt by this bombing and with all residents of New York and New Jersey who were senselessly terrorized by the threat. We also applaud the excellent work done by law enforcement organizations in quickly identifying the apparent culprit and taking him into custody.
While the possible motive of this horrific crime is still being investigated, it appears clear that it was a hate crime and an act of terrorism, which must be condemned by all Americans. If we can learn to respect the otherness of others and accept the God-given uniqueness of each one of us, then conflicts fade and solutions emerge.
Violence in the name of religion or ideology has no place in a pluralistic society like ours, and we all have an obligation to work for one America, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
AMI is committed to be a proactive voice for American Muslims, and our actions, writings and talks are geared to achieve the ultimate goal, where “Americans will see Muslims as their neighbors and fellow citizens, committed to fighting against violent extremism and protecting the homeland.”
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