Loading ...An Open Letter to my Fellow Citizens of the Muslim Tradition: We Are at a Crossroads
December 14, 2015– In America, and perhaps across the entire Western World, Islam is at Crossroads. The challenges facing the entire world in general and the Muslim communities in particular have not been as defining, the stakes are high and the risks are enormous!
December 14, 2015– In America, and perhaps across the entire Western World, Islam is at Crossroads. The challenges facing the entire world in general and the Muslim communities in particular have not been as defining, the stakes are high and the risks are enormous!
One can no longer standby as an observer without speaking up and put forward every possible effort to contribute in a positive fashion; no matter how small our respective sphere of influence is.
In that spirit, I offer considerations to my fellow citizens, those of the Muslim tradition, praying that they are taken in the spirit they are made. As Muslims, it is my firm belief that we must do the following:
1. Affirm that we, Americans adherent of the Muslim faith, are an integral part of this great nation; enjoy its resources, opportunities and benefits and accordingly have duties, obligations and responsibilities to support it and defend it.
2. We, as proud Americans; whether naturalized or American-born citizens, who are fortunate to enjoy the freedom and diversity of this nation, are committed and dedicated to its protection.
3. We stand firm to condemn crimes committed against innocent civilians and accordingly shall demonstrate our good citizenship in protecting our interest and the interest of the country at large.
4. Make every effort to take the lead, not only in condemning violence, but making concrete steps, to the greatest extent possible, to pre-empt and prevent any recurrence of such violence.
5. Meet with local and Federal authorities to demonstrate unwavering commitment to local and national security and to establish contacts for information sharing if circumstances develop that requires such actions.
6. Acknowledge and express our pride in the Constitution of the United States of America and express our honor and commitment to protect and safeguard it.
7. Encourage, request and ensure that Imams and community leaders give sermons against violence.
8. Work with Interfaith Groups to advance positive interfaith relations.
9. Raise funds to support local charities and not-for-profit organizations, civic organizations, educational institutions and others that address the needs of our local communities.
10.Expel from our midst anyone who preaches or advocates hate demagoguery.
11.Report to authorities any legitimate suspicion of potential acts of violence planned by anybody, irrespective whether community member or not.
12.Request the leaders of the Muslim community to examine if it is appropriate, under the current circumstances, to institute formal review processes on who is allowed to claim formal belonging to our places of worship.
13.Raise the American flag at our schools and masjids; and during public meetings swear allegiance to the flag and to the Republic it represents.
We must take proactive measures in the strongest way possible to distance ourselves from misguided and criminally minded few, not only by appropriately issuing statements of condemnations of violent acts along with condolences to the bereaved, but more specifically by concrete actions that demonstrate our commitment to tighten our ranks against local or international terrorism.
Omar M Lattouf MD (PHD FACS FACC is a Professor of Cardiothoracic Surgery in Atlanta, Georgia