The American Islamic Congress today welcomed the news that Osama Bin Laden has been brought to justice by U.S. Special Forces. Executive Director Zainab Al-Suwaij issued the following statement:
"It is a sad truth that one man's death can represent a step forward in the progress of human relations. But in the case of Osama Bin Laden, Americans take comfort that our military has at last served justice to a man who terrorized the United States, as well people of all backgrounds around the world. In fact, Bin Laden and his followers have massacred and maimed tens of thousands of Muslims.
"The world may at last be free of Bin Laden, but the danger he represented has not gone away. The ideology he embodied and promoted is still out there - and we must do everything in our power to combat it. Muslims and Muslim-Americans in particular have an important role to play in this struggle, standing up unequivocally against terrorism and for individual rights.
"Bin Laden's death fittingly comes as new bursts of freedom are emerging in Muslim-majority countries around the world. Dignified nonviolent struggles against tyranny and in celebration of individuality are a powerful rebuke to the threatening forces of Bin Ladenism.
"The American Islamic Congress was launched in the wake of the terrible attacks Bin Laden orchestrated on September 11, 2001. Founded with a commitment to challenge radicalism and promote human freedom at home and abroad, the American Islamic Congress today recommits itself to the struggle to build a more tolerant and free future."
The American Islamic Congress is a civil-rights organization promoting tolerance and the exchange of ideas among Muslims and between other peoples. With the motto "passionate about moderation," the organization leads initiatives around the world and has offices in Washington, Boston, Egypt, and Iraq.
