Let us not forget what we are talking about. We are talking about going to war. We are talking about thousands-possibly hundreds of thousands-of innocent lives being lost. We are talking about casualties almost inevitably among our own forces.
Has our strategy for fighting the scourge of terrorism given us the ultimate result: safety, peace and security somewhat reminiscent of our lives pre-9/11? We are currently spending billions of taxpayer dollars to hunt down terrorists around the world in the interest of our safety. But are we dealing with the symptoms or the disease itself?
Today more than at any other point in our history, each and every Muslim will be viewed by people as a representative of Islam. How we conduct ourselves will have a direct impact on how people think about our beliefs and values.
Please send this letter, making necessary adjustments, to your child's school principal. May Allah keep all children safe and healthy so they can make this world a better place.
Apart from the possible media attacks on Muslims, there could very well be harassment and violence on the part of some Americans. Regardless of how much we may explain, the bottom line is, Muslims will have to bear the brunt of the emotions that run high when such tragic incidents happen, even if they are innocent.
It is important that children's safety is addressed by Muslim organizations as well in these days following the horrific terrorist attack of September 11, 2001. If you are not a leader, get your Masjid or community center to write a letter like this on their letterhead and mail it to the address of school you provide them.