September 9, 2011

For our generation, Sept. 11, 2001, will forever remain in infamy. On that day a depraved band of zealots committed the most atrocious crime of murdering nearly 3,000 innocent Americans.

As patriotic Americans, our condemnation of these heinous crimes has remained unequivocal. We stand united with our fellow citizens to defeat the scourge of terrorism comprehensively and without any reservation.

Ten years on, we reflect on the innocent victims: Fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, husbands and wives who lost their lives on that fateful day. Our hearts and minds are with their families and we hope and pray that they will find some solace in the fact that the entire country stands firmly united with them on this anniversary.

We salute the brave men and women in uniformed services and the first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice who day in and day out, perform acts of heroism to keep us safe and maintain America as the beacon of light and hope for the entire world.

Through generations, America has been enriched by its diversity. Today, Muslims are making positive contributions in every sphere of American life, be it armed forces, first responders, civil services, medicine, engineering and law, education, labor, business or other professions. Let’s use this anniversary to realize the full potential of American Muslims to strengthen the leadership role of this great nation in the world and keep the dream of E Pluribus Unum (out of many, one) alive.

The Muslim Public Affairs Council of Western New York, since its inception in 2004, has been and will continue to be fully committed in moving forward through education, civic engagement and outreach programs for our community. In that effort we look forward to and welcome any assistance and partnership of our fellow citizens with pride and enthusiasm. 

May God bless the United States of America

Khalid J. Qazi, MD
President, MPAC-WNY
On behalf of MPAC Board Members and Muslims of WNY

Click here for a full listing of MPAC's events this 10th anniversary of 9/11 weekend.