Arab Americans gratified by support
The American-Arab Anti-discrimination Committee (ADC) welcomes the support that the Arab-American and Muslim-American community has been receiving during this time of national mourning, ADC said.
President Bush, Secretary Powell, Attorney General Ashcroft, the United States Senate, and many Americans have expressed their concern and solidarity with our communities, ADC added.
The US Senate voted unanimously to pass Senate Joint Resolution 23. The Resolution was introduced by Senators Tom Harkin, Orrin Hatch, Russell Feingold, and Patrick Leahy. The resolution stated that "the civil rights and civil liberties of all Americans, including Arab Americans and Muslim Americans, should be protected," and "condemn[ed] any acts of violence or discrimination against any Americans, including Arab Americans and Muslim Americans."
On Friday, Attorney General Ashcroft met with Arab Americans at the Justice Department. After the meeting, Ashcroft stated "We must not descend to the level of those who perpetrated Tuesday's violence by targeting individuals based on race, religion, or national origin." An effort is already underway to plan a national campaign to combat hate crimes.
Other positive messages of solidarity are being received by ADC. Senators Ted Kennedy, John McCain, John Edwards, and Russel Feingold have also issued messages of official support. ADC has also received messages of compassion from a number of Americans of different ethnicity and religions. Grassroots organizations representing Americans of Asian, Italian, Jewish, Hispanic, Portuguese, and African American heritage as well as other local and national organizations have offered their support.
ADC President Ziad Asali noted that "At this time of mourning we extend our deepest sympathies to the families of the victims. ADC is truly grateful for all the positive messages we have received as the nation struggles to get through this nightmare."
