December 15, 2010

(Los Angeles, CA - 12/15/10) -- The Muslim Public Affairs Council congratulates the City of Los Angeles for standing up against the nationwide spread of Islamophobia by unanimously passing a resolution today that upholds the American principles of religious freedom and pluralism. City Councilman Tony Cardenas (6th District) sponsored and presented the resolution today at Los Angeles City Council meeting.
 
SEE: Resolution on Religious Pluralism and Islamophobia
 
"Pluralism is an American bedrock value that speaks to one of our greatest strengths," said Aziza Hasan, Southern California Government Relations Director, who attended the City Council hearing. "L.A. is proudly one of the most diverse cities in the world. This resolution will speak to that strength and serve as a model for the nation and world to follow."
 
The resolution recognizes Islamophobia as being a cause of the opposition to lawful construction and expansion of Islamic centers across the United States, including Tennessee, Wisconsin, Illinois, Connecticut and California. In addition, the resolution expresses deep concern about Islamophobia as evidenced by more than two dozen mosques across the United States who have been targets of vandalism, arson and other hate filled acts.
 
The adoption of this resolution by the Los Angeles City Council, in agreement with Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, will ensure that the city of Los Angeles will include in its 2010-2011 State and Federal Legislative Program plans to support and sponsor legislation that will oppose Islamophobia and condemn hateful violent acts against Muslim Americans.
 
Faith-based and community organizations who attended the hearing in support of the resolution included MPAC, the City of Los Angeles Human Relations Commission, Progressive Jewish Alliance, NewGround alumni, Progressive Christians Uniting, All Saints Episcopal Church Pasadena and California Faith for Equality.
 
"This resolution is about reminding ourselves to be responsible for ourselves and ask what do I stand for? Am I willing to correct myself? Am I willing to treat people equally?" Councilman Cardenas said during the City Council hearing.
 
Los Angeles is one of the most ethnically rich and diverse cities in the United States, with 600 religious sects and 224 various languages that are spoken.
 
Founded in 1988, MPAC is an American institution which informs and shapes public opinion and policy by serving as a trusted resource to decision makers in government, media and policy institutions. MPAC is also committed to developing leaders with the purpose of enhancing the political and civic participation of Muslim Americans.
 
CONTACT: Marium Mohiuddin, 213-383-3443, marium@mpac.org