Santa Clara, 21 Sep 2001 -- On September the 11th, the lives of every person living in America were changed forever. Before our very eyes, lives were lost and dreams were shattered.

We, the Muslim Community Association of the San Francisco Bay Area, wish to express our deepest sympathy for the victims of the atrocious acts of violence committed across our nation. As American Muslims, we join our fellow Americans in condemning the killing of innocent people in America and else where. We share in the grief of the nation.

We thank those, who are taking time to support those of us who are Muslim, or of middle-eastern descent. Through our joint efforts, we can help America understand that Islam stands for tolerance and sanctity of life.

Terrorism has No religion or ethnicity! We ask all Americans to refrain from compounding our nation's pain with backlashes of hate in our own communities. We request accurate reporting in the media and ask that events be reported as they unfold, rather than fueling fears and passions with unsubstantiated rumors that may target a particular ethnic or religious group.

Together, united as Americans, we can begin the healing of our nation's wounds. Here in the bay area, we can set an example for the world to follow.

This message was aired on KARA, KRTY and KLIV radio stations.