March 28, 2016

Dear Friend,

Last week, I had the opportunity to speak at a roundtable with presidential candidate Hillary Clintonand Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti at the University of Southern California (USC). This roundtable wasn't about who to endorse for President, or promoting a particular framework for Countering Violent Extremism (CVE). It was an opportunity to speak the truth to the nation about Islam and Muslims at a time when there are so many spreading hate and misunderstanding about our faith and community.

It was time to speak for ourselves.

Before hundreds of national media outlets, students, teachers and leaders in the civic sector, I said, in part:

“We cannot be fighting each other. That is exactly what ISIS wants... ISIS represents cruelty. Islam represents mercy. ISIS represents destructive behavior. Islam says to go and build a civilization.”

Engagement is a tool -- not a goal --  and embracing civic responsibility is one effective way to gain civil rights. Thanks to your involvement  and support, we secured a seat at the table and America listened.

Please consider a gift of $100 to help us continue building relationships with decision makers based on mutual understanding and to serve as a trusted ally and resource. It is a long road but we are on a steady path.

We will continue to engage government and media to serve the interests of the community, to define ourselves as American Muslims rather than be defined by others, and to offer solutions to problems that affect our country and community. Please share this video with your community and civic leaders as a tool for engagement and please send any questions to us.

Sincerely,

Salam Al-Marayati
MPAC President