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Philadelphia Area Muslim Groups Speak Out Against Terror Attack In Paris

By Cherri Gregg

PHILAdELPHIA (CBS) -- The world's largest body of Muslim Nations - the Organization of Islamic Cooperation - has condemned the attacks in Paris and has expressed unwavering support to France. Meanwhile, local Muslim groups are also speaking out.

"We totally and unconditionally condemn all actions of violence of this nature," says Mikal Shabazz, imam at the Masjidullah in West Oak Lane. He says he felt compelled to speak out against the Paris attacks, after years of shying away from the press. He says it imperative that he and other Muslims let the world know Islam is a peaceful religion and ISIS and other terrorist groups do not follow the doctrine.

"To do it in the name of Islam is a total disgrace and is the antithesis of what Islam stands for," he says.

Part of the problem is misdirected backlash. Attacks like the one in Paris can result in hate crimes against peaceful Muslims around the world, including in Philadelphia.

"We get hate calls in our office and threats and we have to call in police," says Jacob Bender, executive director of Council for American Islamic Relations in Philadelphia (CAIR). He says in the past, they've received reports of vandalism at mosques, verbal and physical attacks against Muslims and more. So far, they have not received any calls or calls in response to the Paris attack, but Muslims are being vigilant. They also want to make clear-- they are not terrorists and have nothing to do with ISIS.

 

 

"These are psychopaths with criminal records, these are psycho paths that should be hunted down," says Bender.

"Islam is a religion of peace," says Shabazz, "we want people to know-- we need to let people know."

Shabazz says they are hoping to raise more awareness about Islam locally by seeking legislation that makes Islamic religions like EID a holiday.

Philadelphia is home to roughly 200,000 Muslims.

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