Dear Community Members and Friends, As-Salaamu Alaikum,
Assalaamu Alaykum,
Yesterday, I had the honor of attending the janaza, or funeral, for Br. Amin Abdullah, Br. Nadir Awad, and Br. Mansour Kaziha (also known as Abul Ezz)—the three heroes who sacrificed their lives to protect the students and congregants of the Islamic Center of San Diego. May Allah (SWT) grant them the highest level of Jannah, insha’Allah.
In the face of tragedy, the world around us may appear to be bleak and full of hatred. Attacks such as this one are meant to isolate communities, spread fear, and make people feel abandoned, unsafe, and alone.
However, what I experienced during the janaza, surrounded by thousands of people of all faiths and backgrounds coming together to mourn our beloved martyrs, made me feel more connected than ever before. In that moment, it did not matter whether we were Muslim, or Jewish, or Christian, or Sikh, or of any other faith; we were all one community, united by our grief and shared humanity.
When I spoke with the executive director of CAIR-CA’s San Diego office, Tazheen Nizam, she expressed how heartwarming it was to see people from all over California rallying together to support the heroes’ families and stand in solidarity with everyone impacted by this horrific attack. She told me that this show of solidarity has become a form of protection and healing for the San Diego Muslim community and helps ensure that hate never has the last word.
That very same evening, I had a similar experience at an Interfaith Vigil we hosted alongside the Islamic Society of Orange County and the Islamic Shura Council of Southern California. As we heard heartfelt words from various faith leaders, community members, and elected officials, I noticed a common theme amongst them: You are not alone. We are with you. We will protect you.
I pray that we carry yesterday’s sense of unity with us today, tomorrow, and beyond. Let us renew our commitment to challenging anti-Muslim hate, the people and institutions that fuel it, and all forms of bigotry that divide us. Together, we can build a society rooted in justice, compassion, and dignity for all.
Fi Amanillah,
Hussam Ayloush CAIR-CA CEO |
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