Stand with Muslim community

Recently, people on an online site made threats directed at the Islamic Center in Pullman. We, the Moscow and Pullman Interfaith Community, are heartsick at these threats to sacred space, especially as it comes on the heels of the firebombing of the Planned Parenthood clinic, a visceral reminder that irresponsible words sometimes lead to illegal and violent deeds.

We, the faith leaders of Pullman and Moscow, stand with our Muslim brothers and sisters. Our community is a place of peace, tolerance and harmony. Just as a few misguided terrorists should not be seen as representative of all of the Islamic community, so a few misguided bigots should not be seen as representative of the people of the Palouse. Freedom of religion is a foundational principle for our great nation, and to target people based on their faith is both un-American and unconscionable.

We call upon all people of goodwill to support our Muslim neighbors. If you witness verbal attacks or insults, step in and affirm that hatred and religious persecution have no place in our town. Remember the Golden Rule and treat all people as we would wish to be treated: with kindness, compassion and understanding.

The Rev. Elizabeth Stevens

Moscow