DDHK News, United States - The New York City Police Department has disbanded a unit that spies on Muslims in mosques and community meeting places.
Like most New Yorkers, Maimuna Abdul-Hakim felt the 9/11 attacks were a reminder to Americans. Raising awareness is a necessary response, but the member of the Islamic Brotherhood Mosque and mother of three was shocked to learn that her place of worship was the target of NYPD Demographic Unit surveillance. He said he was relieved to learn that the unit had been disbanded.
“Moreover, I've lived here all my life and I have children who live here, and I don't know who these people are, we are a close community; I'm always on the alert. So I am happy. Now is the time, ”Maimuna Abdul-Hakim was quoted as saying voaindonesia.com.
Abdul Sabir, the mosque's janitor and a devout Muslim, also welcomed the news. "I am very relieved. They began to see that we were peaceful people. There's no need to spy on us. Islam promotes peace. So I'm relieved, "he said.
According to Imam Al Hajj Talib Abdur al Rashid, president of the New York Metropolitan Islamic Leadership Council, antipathy against former police commissioner Raymond Kelly over the surveillance runs through the city's Muslim leadership.
“Over the years, we have tried consistently to build a good relationship with the NYPD. Many Priests feel betrayed because they have teamed up with the NYPD, teamed up with former police chief Kelly, but have been under surveillance. So there is the impression that the NYPD is using them and the mosque for surveillance. And as you know, the NYPD reconnaissance program turned out not to provide a single clue, ”said Imam Al Hajj Talib Abdur al Rashid.
However, Imam al Rashid remains optimistic. He said by dissolving the Demographics Unit, Mayor Bill de Blasio had shown his commitment to ending religious, ethnic and racial discrimination.
“… But whether that will translate into policy is still unclear. There is a real challenge to creating 21st century policies in New York, policies that ensure public safety without violating the human rights of citizens. This is a challenge; but they are paid for overcoming challenges, "he added.
Muslim community leaders, police and mayor's office have voiced their commitment to building trust, community representatives saying true healing will only come when they are satisfied that there has been no official discrimination by any city unit or department.
On the other hand, officials continue to affirm their commitment to do whatever is necessary and legally necessary to protect New Yorkers from terrorism. (VOA News). *
