Condemnation of 9/11/01 Terrorist Attack

Along with all the other Muslims of America, I join my fellow Americans today in condemning these dastardly acts of terrorism and I share the grief and sorrow of the nation. My heart goes out to the friends and families of those who are victims of this despicable act and horrible tragedy.

Obviously this seems a well-planned and well-coordinated act of terrorism and I am confident that the law enforcement authorities will soon discover the identity of perpetrators responsible for this contemptible act and bring them to task with the full force of the law.

At this moment of confusion, uncertainty and naturally highly charged emotions, I earnestly appeal to the media and the American people not to rush to judgment, as was done in the wake of the April 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City. Let the response of our nation be mature and thoughtful. This is a moment of prayer and unity not of hasty reaction.

I pray to God to give strength to all of those who have suffered during this catastrophe.

Note: You can also read a poem by a Muslim woman, A Country United

Additional resources related to the terrorist attacks, their background, and their aftermath are Western Journalists on the Terrorist Attacks, a collection of links to articles by Western journalists discussing possible causes of, and solutions to, terrorism; A Field Guide to Islamic Activists, an article I have written about contemporary trends in Islam, and the origins of "militant Islam"; and A Month of Backlash, a collection of links about attacks on innocent Muslims and Arab-Americans in the wake of the terrorism.

You may also want to look at Muslims, Stand Up for Justice!, a reminder to Muslims that we must fight injustice, even when committed by brothers or sisters in religion.