Outraged by massacre of 50 people in Orlando, American Muslim leaders Sunday expressed solidarity with victims and their families, saying killers of innocent humans have no place in Islam.
In statements and public appearances, leaders of faith organizations spoke in the strongest terms against the killings following US-born Omar Mateen went on a shooting spree in a gay nightclub in the Florida city.
Islamic Society of North America said it “mourns with the families of the victims and pray for their ease and comfort during this time of difficulty.”
In a statement, ISNA President Azhar Azeez said: “ISNA sends its condolences and prayers to the families of the victims. We urge the community to stand united against all acts of violence.”
Speaking at a news conference, Nihad Awad, executive director and founder of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, said the Muslim community has been appalled at the criminal and cowardly act of killings in Orlando, Florida.
He denounced ISIS terror group as “an aberration,” and its members as “outcasts”.
“You do not speak for us. You do not represent us. You are an aberration,” he said addressing a press conference along with other Muslim leaders.
“They never belonged to this beautiful faith. They claim to, but 1.7 billion people are united in rejecting their extremism, their interpretation and their acts of senseless violence,” Awad added.
The CAIR also reported on its website that Georgia’s Muslim community Sunday united to condemn the horrific mass shooting at an Orlando nightclub.
Edward Ahmed Mitchell, executive director of the Georgia chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, said : “Although we do not know all the facts about the shooter, we do know that this lunacy has no place in our nation.
“People of faith like Muhammad Ali embody the world’s Muslim community, not this mass murderer,” said Imam Arshad Anwar, leader of the Roswell Community Masjid.
“As proud Americans and devout Muslims, we respect religious freedom, human rights and freedom of choice. Our community will, God willing, continue its efforts to combat extremism and encourage tolerance of all people.”
