CAIR, Baltimore Muslim Leaders Call for Ramadan 'Day of Prayer' for Healing After Charleston Massacre

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 6/19/15) - The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation's largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, is joining Baltimore Muslim leaders in calling for a “Day of Prayer” today to seek peace and healing in the aftermath of Wednesday's massacre of nine people at a Charleston, S.C., church. 

Friday is the day of Muslim congregational prayers (Jummah) and today is the first such prayer in the month-long fast or Ramadan, which began yesterday.

“As Muslims across America observe the month of Ramadan, we urge communities to reflect on the need to defeat hatred with tolerance, to seek justice for those murdered and to pray for peace and healing for grieving families and communities,” CAIR Maryland Outreach Manager Zainab Chaudry.

CAIR and Baltimore Muslims leaders extended condolences to the families of those who were killed in Charleston. 

SEE: CAIR Stands with African-American Community After Terror Attack on Charleston Church

https://cair-ny.org/blog/charleston_church.html

In a joint statement, they said:

"The Qur’an, the Muslim holy book, says: 'He who takes one life, it is as if he has slain all of mankind. And he who saves one life, it is as if he has saved all of mankind.' [Surah Ma'idah 5:32]

“We will not allow forces of hatred and division to be greater than the forces of peace and tolerance. Join us to pray for healing for all of our communities that are hurting across America today."

Baltimore recently witnessed unrest in the aftermath of Freddie Gray's death. Gray died earlier this year as a result of injuries sustained while in police custody. 

CAIR is America's largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.

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Contact: CAIR Maryland Outreach Manager Zainab Chaudry, zchaudry@cair.com, 410-971-6062; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, ihooper@cair.com