Writers warn about the proposed Islamic center and give counsel
on the recent attacks
Let’s Not Be Naive About the Real Threat of Muslims Living in the United States
Dear Editor,
There were two opinion articles in the Dispatch on Thursday, May 31, in favor of giving the proposed Islamic Center in San Martin an open door. While I agree that it should not become a flashpoint for emotional overreaction, and that it isn’t fair to judge an entire religion by the actions of extremists, it is naïve to think that they have no ulterior motive for establishing themselves in the U.S.Â
Please realize that we are all idolaters/infidels who do not embrace their religion. The Qur’an states that idolaters/infidels may be slain “wherever you find them” (Surah 9:5; Surah 47:4) and Paradise is promised for those who die fighting in the cause of Islam. (see Surah 3:195; 2:224) Also, while many Muslim marriages are monogamous, Islamic states allow as many as four wives. Muslim men consider a woman as less than an equal, and while a man has the right to divorce his wife, the wife has no similar power. (see Surah 2:228; 4:34)
According to a new poll by the New York Post, one of four young Muslims in the U.S. believe suicide bombings against innocent civilians are OK. The nationwide survey, one of the most exhaustive ever conducted of American Muslim attitudes, found that more than 60 percent are very concerned Islamic extremism will grow in America. There are an estimated 2.35 million Muslims in the U.S. Thirteen percent said suicide bombings and other violence against civilians can be justified “in order to defend Islam from its enemies.” Among those under the age of 30, that 13 percent doubled to 26 percent.
Our government officials need to carefully consider this matter and not be naïve.
Nancy Murphy, San Martin
Painful Attacks a Reminder to Empower Oneself and Seek Help if it’s Needed
Dear Editor,
The two recent attacks on young women in Gilroy are a painful reminder that sexual assault happens everywhere, even within the confines of our relatively small South County community.
With the aftermath of these attacks comes fuller recognition that we are not impervious to violence. The fact that one of these attacks occurred in broad daylight and both were at public locations is a testament to our need for personal vigilance when it comes to the safety of ourselves and our children.
You can make efforts that will promote your safety. Empower yourself – take a self-defense class and don’t be afraid to fight back. In one of these cases, it made all of the difference.
Always be aware of your surroundings. Trust your instincts. If you are feeling unsafe or uncomfortable, it is probably for good reason. Realize that when it comes to personal safety, the boundaries set by politeness do not apply. This is especially important for children to understand as the majority of sexual assault victims know their attacker.
However, while there are such preventative measures that we can take to increase our safety, we must remember that the ability to eradicate this horrendous crime lies solely with the perpetrators. It is never the victim’s fault. No one deserves to be abused.
It has been our experience that the heightened media coverage of sexual-based crimes often causes other survivors to remember and relive their experiences. As such, we feel that it is important to let everyone know that Community Solutions offers supportive services to survivors of sexual assault, whether or not the crime was recent or occurred in years past, whether or not they have or want to report the attack to police.
For all survivors and their families and friends, we are here for you, we believe you, and we can accompany you on your path to healing. Our Sexual Assault Services are free and completely confidential, and they are available 24-hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week.
No one needs to suffer alone. It is never too late to ask for help.
Perla Flores, Director of the Solutions to Violence Program
Community Solutions
