IMAM AMMAR SHAHIN STATEMENT
PRESS CONFERENCE, DAVIS, CA
JULY 27, 2017
I have spent my entire time in religious service helping Muslims a
especially young Muslims a have a healthy understanding of their faith.
A healthy understanding of Islam that is free of extremism and hate. Our
Prophet (peace and blessings upon him) was a man who acted out of
wisdom, humility, compassion and fairness to everyone he encountered.
I believe we all need to speak and act with wisdom, compassion and a
sense of fairness toward everyone wether we agree with them or not.
Recently in my Sermons, I let my emotions get the best of me and cloud
my better judgement. I said things that were hurtful to Jews. This was
unacceptable.
To the Jewish community, here in Davis and beyond, I say this: I am
deeply sorry for the pain that I have caused. The last thing I would do is
intentionally hurt anyone, Muslim, Jewish or otherwise. It is not in my
heart, nor does my religion allow it.
I do understand how my words were hurtful, and I am sorry. I understand
that speech like this can encourage others to do hateful and violent acts,
for this I, truly apologize. Words matter and have consequences.
Over the past few days, I have had the opportunity to discuss the content
of my sermon, with several individuals inside and outside the Muslim
community and have come to realize the harm it has caused. Indeed,
commitment to defending religious rights in Jerusalem should not cause
division or fan the flames of anti-Semitism.
Today, I commit to working harder and will join efforts for mutual
understanding and building bridges.
As a young religious leader, this has humbled me. I hope to grow and
develop as a more worthy leader in the community and seek your support
and counsel in navigating the better path toward understanding and
healing.
American Muslim and Jewish communities have made remarkable
progress in recent years working together to address civil rights and social
justice. I look forward to increasing my interfaith activity to create a
deeper understanding and mutual respect, for the purpose of working to
stop hate speech and violence.