Washington, DC: The Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) condemns the barbaric execution of American journalist James Foley by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and urges all people of conscience to take a stand against extremism, says an MPAC statement. It adds:
Mr Foley was a journalist who courageously covered the atrocities against the Syrian people. We offer our condolences to his family and friends.
SEE: "Militant Group Says It Killed American Journalist in Syria" (New York Times)
ALSO SEE: "MPAC Rejects ISIS’ Repugnant Crimes Against Humanity" (MPAC)
An essential measure to countering groups like the ISIS is to empower the mainstream and relegate extremists to the irrelevance they deserve. MPAC’s Declaration Against Extremism calls out the dangers of extremism and issues a clear call for action. The Declaration provides a platform to amplify voices of humanity, dignity and pluralism. It also challenges Muslims to respond to all forms of extremism through engagement, positive articulations of theology and a willingness to stand up to and push back against voices that use the garb of religious authority to further their destructive agenda.
TAKE A STAND: Sign the Declaration Against Extremism
"A major obstacle preventing the true message of Islam worldwide is extremism. In this, we are not alone. Sadly, extremists contaminate all religions,” reads the Declaration Against Extremism. “Thus, with this document, together we passionately reaffirm our opposition to extremists of all stripes, particularly all Muslim extremists who betray Islam’s true message. Furthermore, we pledge to collectively condemn and act to prevent extremism in all forms."
Join your voice with Muslims around the world who are outraged by extremist groups that cannot be considered human and rob innocent people of their lives, human rights and free will. Share the Declaration with others who want to take a stand against extremism. We must amplify the voices of Muslims everywhere and drown out the extremist fringe.
