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September 8, 2002
"Reflections on 9-11", Aref Assaf
As published in the Bergen
Record, NJ
To the Editor:
Many of my friends have been asking about my plans for 9-11-2002, the one
year anniversary of the terrorists' attacks on NYC and Washington, DC. I am sure
that day, when our towns and cities will be draped in bunting, many of
America's 8 million Moslems and 3 million Arabs will be grieving and seeking
solace; but some Moslems say they will feel resentment. The crimes of a few
Moslems have resulted in a collective punishment imposed on all Moslems.
Still others will fear an echo of anti-Moslem backlash. Some will look to prove
they are good Americans. Others will bristle that such a thing should even be
expected of them. However they react, many Moslems feel that the day has an
extra layer of meaning for them. The tragic events of 9-11 were probably
more traumatizing to us more than any other single faith community. On the one
hand, we were victimized just like other people, because there were a lot of
innocent Moslems killed, and on the other hand we are being blamed and vilified
in the media and attacked in the streets.
At the same time, the non-Moslem public in America still wants to know 'What is
Islam?' 'Who are Moslems?' and 'What do you all feel about Sept. 11?' These
events coming up are going to be yet another opportunity for us to just tell our
non-Moslem neighbors how we feel and how we have been affected. Many
interfaith activities are planned for the week of 9-11.
Numerous large mosques and prominent imams are planning a wide range of events.
Many have the same underlying motive, as if to say, "we belong." I
think there is definitely a feeling in the community that we have to be part of
the American scene and do our share in building goodwill, understanding and
coexistence amongst peoples of all faiths.
For me, personally, I shall light up a candle in remembrance of all those who
died innocently and needlessly, ponder what can be done to avert such a tragedy
in the future. I shall also ponder why my very own life was spared since I had
plans to be in the vicinity of the Twin Towers early that fateful morning but my
bus was delayed. I also plan to have a larger copy of the US constitution signed
by as many people as possible- a symbolic affirmation that the civil and natural
rights of all citizens must be preserved, protected and defended even at times
of uncertainty and disillusionment.
Sincerely,
Aref Assaf |
