Statement from The Islamic Shura Council of Southern California
The Islamic Shura Council of Southern California, an umbrella organization of over 75 Islamic center and organization in Southern California, express its strongest condemnation to the terror attacks that took place earlier at two mosques in New Zealand.
Our hearts go out to the innocent victims and their families, we cannot fathom the grief and suffering of someone who receives the news about losing a loved one who was worshiping during the holiest time of the week.
The pain we all felt after hearing the news about this heinous act of terror is a clear manifestation of the vitality of the umma and its unity, and a clear sign that humanity at large rejects aggression and terror.
We strongly believe that nothing will affect us unless it was decreed for us, we also abide but the Prophetic advice of the importance of taking all measures to protect ourselves, being vigilant and alert for any suspicious activities.
The community leadership is in constant discussion on how to handle the aftermath of this incident by conducting safety workshops and contacting local law enforcement agencies to increase patrols at our institutions.
We are also conferring with mental health professionals on the best practices to heal the community and its members, especially the vulnerable ones.
The Shura Council offers its prayers and sincere condolences to the families of the victims, and ask God Almighty to grant the souls of the martyrs the Highest Stations of Paradise, to heal the maimed and wounded, to ease the profound heartache of their families, loved ones, friends, and the entire Christchurch community.
We thank those who have already reached out to their Muslim friends and neighbors in solidarity and support.
We also thank our member organizations who released a statement condemning this attack expressing the feelings of their congregants.
We thank the law enforcement departments who are increasing their efforts and measures around Islamic organizations to protect and secure our community.
Here is a compilation of statements from USCMO and several of our member organizations expressing their concerns:
Islamic Center of Southern California
