Muslims Condemn Vandalism at Sikh Temple

Vandalism at houses of worship must be stopped

Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA condemns the vandalism committed on a new Sikh temple under construction in Sterling Heights, Michigan, on February 6th, 2012. In this targeted attack, vandals spray-painted the walls of the temple with an obscenity, a picture of a gun, a cross and a reference to the Prophet Muhammad. Such an incident illustrates not only ignorance of different faith traditions in America but also a growing religious intolerance that must be cured.

Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA extends its condolences and sympathy to the Sikh community. A similar attack occurred last week at a Mosque in Chantilly, Virginia, where vandals destroyed nearly every window on the first floor of the new construction, causing upwards of $60,000 worth of damage.

“We are saddened that the Sikh community continues to experience some of the anti-Muslim sentiment that exists in the country,” said Dr. Nasim Rehmatullah, National Vice President of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, USA. “This incident demonstrates just how little is known about Sikhism and Islam. More attention needs to be paid to religious education in order to foster a more tolerant and peaceful society.”

Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA is available to answer any questions or concerns about Muslims or Islam.

Contact:

Harris Zafar, National Spokesperson
harris.zafar@ahmadiyya.us

About the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community:

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is a dynamic, fast-growing international revival movement within Islam. Founded in 1889, Ahmadiyya Muslim Community spans 200 countries with membership exceeding tens of millions. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA, established in 1920, is the first American-Muslim organization.

Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is the only Islamic organization to believe that the long-awaited messiah has come in the person of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (1835-1908) of Qadian, India. Ahmad claimed to be the metaphorical second coming of Jesus of Nazareth and the divine guide, whose advent was foretold by the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad (peace be upon him). The Community believes that God sent Ahmad, like Jesus, to end religious wars, condemn bloodshed and reinstitute morality, justice and peace. Ahmad’s advent has brought about an unprecedented era of Islamic revival and moderation. He divested Muslims of fanatical beliefs and practices by vigorously championing Islam’s true and essential teachings. 

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