United States Muslims return to praying Friday in front of Capitol Hill, Washington DC (15/10). Organizers said this was done as part of a campaign to illustrate that Islam is a religion of tolerance and rejects violence.
This is the second time that Muslims have flocked to the central area of American government for Friday prayers. In September 2009 Muslims did the same in the western area of Capitol Hill.
According to the Executive Director of the Islamic Initiative, Abdul Malik, his party wants to show the beauty of religious freedom in America and encourage young Muslims to reject extremism. "We want the exercise of Muslim rights to be guaranteed by the American Constitution and to show the bright side of Islam," he was quoted as saying Islam Today.
He explained that the Friday prayer action was inspired when he saw Barack Obama being accused of being a Muslim, as if Muslims were a threat to America.
He added that the Muslim community is an integral part of American society.
A similar event took place in front of the Capitol Hill building with the participation of more than 30.000 US Muslims. It is hoped that this Friday prayer will be able to bring about the participation of around 100 Muslims. (islamtoday / eramuslim) *
