|
AMV voices concern over
Congressman Peter King’s statement
(Feb. 11, 2004) – The American Muslim Voice today expressed concern over the statement of Republican Congressman, Peter T. King, who claimed that that the vast majority of American Muslim community leaders are "an enemy living amongst us" and that American Muslims do not cooperate in the war on terror.
Congressman King made these remarks on Sean Hannity's nationally-syndicated radio program while promoting his new novel "Veil of Tears" on February 9.
The AMV statement said:
Congressman King’s malicious statement is far from truth as the American Muslim leaders were among the first to condemn jointly and individually the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The American Muslim Political Coordination Council (AMPCC), an umbrella organization grouping major American Muslim organizations, issued a statement within hours of the 9/11 tragedy which said: "American Muslims utterly condemn what are apparently vicious and cowardly acts of terrorism against innocent civilians. We join with all Americans in calling for the swift apprehension and punishment of the perpetrators. No political cause could ever be assisted by such immoral acts.”
It is regretted that an elected official, who serves on the Select Committee on Homeland Security and the International Relations Committee, is defaming the American Muslim community just to promote his book. The AMV calls on President George Bush and other Republican leaders to repudiate Congressman King’s statement.
The AMV Executive Director, Samina Faheem Sundas, added: “Under current atmosphere we need to bridge the gap between all communities and stand by each other. I am truly saddened by our scholars and elected officials inflammatory remarks which does not do any good. It does not make any body feel secure, it creates a culture of helplessness and anxiety in our country and spreads hatred towards Arabs and Muslims.”
|
