Calling Islam

3 December 2008
The Miami Herald
source: http://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/letters/story/796895.html

The Nov. 29 letter Muslims mum? asserts that the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) did not condemn Ayman al-Zawahri's recent video criticizing President-elect Barack Obama with racist rhetoric.
 
In fact, CAIR issued a statement on Nov. 19 that read in part: ``As Muslims and as Americans, we will never let terrorist groups or terror leaders falsely claim to represent us or our faith. The legitimate grievances of Muslims in many areas of the world can never serve as an excuse or a justification for attacks on civilian populations. We once again repudiate al Qaeda's actions, rhetoric and worldview and restate our condemnation of all forms of terrorism and religious extremism.''
 
CAIR took particular offense to al-Zawahri's use of the offensive term ''house Negro'' in reference to Obama. Islam rejects racism and seeks universal peace and brotherhood. We repudiate any and all uses of racial slurs or insults.
 
ALTAF ALI, executive director, Council on American-Islamic Relations, Pembroke Pines