AMI Statement
As-salmu alaykum
This statement is to clarify recent misconceptions about an incident that happened last Friday at AMI.
Inspired by the work of peace activists: sister Ghadir Hani, Rabbi Or Zohar, and Father Saba Haj, we agreed to meet with them to understand their work. Independently, the Tri-Faith had planned to host a panel discussion on Saturday, February 24th, 2024.
However, we faced an unexpected challenge when some community members misinterpreted the nature of the work of these three guests. These community members responded negatively, and initiated a social media campaign accusing the visitors of promoting Zionist propaganda.
The situation escalated leading to personal attacks that prompted us to address the matter after Friday prayer.
In light of these unfortunate incidents and the amount of hateful online comments, we advised our guest, sister Ghadir Hani, that it would be unsafe for her to attend the prayer or to hold the Q&A on Friday, February 23rd, 2024.
After the Friday prayer on the 23rd, an individual caused a disturbance in the Haram by expressing himself loudly, using profanity, and interrupting Sunnah prayers. Despite our attempts to offer a platform for discussion, the disruptive behavior led fellow community members to escort him out of the prayer hall just moments before we hosted a scheduled FBI session on "Hate Crimes.
These incidents highlight the complexities organizations, like ours, face when working toward dialogue and understanding in diverse communities. We recognize the importance of dispelling misinformation and fostering an environment where respectful dialogue prevails over divisive presumptions.
As AMI leaders and members, we will never refuse to be part of any event in fear of meeting people we disagree with; to the contrary, we believe our mission is ALWAYS to show up and have a voice, even if it makes us uncomfortable. In essence, we are showing up to correct the opposing narrative and stand for what we believe is our core struggle and the voice that often gets missed when you decide not to show up.
This is why we are part of this endeavor: to stay engaged, have a voice, listen to others, build bridges, and ensure we are heard.
Finally, we believe this is NOT the time for Muslim-on-Muslim hate and cyberbullying. It is NOT the time to boycott other peace activists working towards the same goal through different avenues. We welcome partners in this cause for peace from all sides, and we believe we are stronger together than when we work alone.
Sincerely,
AMI Leadership
P.S. For those curious to hear and seek the truth, here is a link to some of the videos taken by several community members of the panel event that took place on Saturday, February 24th, 2024.
To learn more about our campaign in raising awareness about Palestine, please click on the links below. The links include statements, events, and collaborations with other groups.
1- Statement Oct 15, 2023
2- Statement Oct 31, 2023
3- A Night to Support Palestine Nov 5, 2023
4- Potluck Fundraiser for Gaza Nov 16, 2023
5- A Night to Support Palestine Statement Dec 19, 2023
6- E.D.E.N Initiative Campaign Jan 21, 2024
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