Florin JACL Supports Muslim American Community

- by Andy Noguchi, Civil Rights Co-Chair

To counter the cloud of suspicion hanging over the Muslim American community – the false accusations by the government about plots to attack hospitals and shopping centers, the public trial of suspects through media reports, and hysteria about terrorism whipped up by politicians – the Florin JACL and other community groups have stepped forward - just as we wish people would have stepped forward for Japanese Americans after Pearl Harbor.  

-  Attending “Know Your Rights” Forum with Stockton & Lodi Muslim American community

-  Meeting with Lodi and Stockton JACL Chapter members.

-  Joining a news conference calling to respect the civil liberties of Muslim Americans.

-  Supporting Muslim American “How to Deal with the Psychological Impact of Terrorism” forum.

-  Protesting KFBK News Radio promo spreading false claim of plot to attack hospitals & shopping malls.

-  Organizing legal resources for Muslim Americans being questioned by the FBI.

-  Writing articles educating the public about the threat to civil rights similar to those faced by JAs before

-  Mobilizing support from other Asian Americans and the public

-  Speaking at a news conference with Muslim Americans denouncing terrorists attacks.

-  Attending a new Introduction to Islam 101 course to learn the facts about the Muslim religion

Many Muslim Americans we’ve met have expressed their deep gratitude for the special concern shown by Japanese Americans during this challenging time.  Our appreciation goes to Florin JACL members like Cheryl Miles, Karen Kurasaki, Fumie Shimada, Barbara Takei, Alan Koike, Twila Tomita, Marion & Ryu Kanemoto, Bob Uyeyama, Kazuyo Morishita, Kais Menufy, and many others.  Please contact any of us for more information.