A group of Islamic institutions in the United States have established a million-dollar fund to combat hate speech and attacks against Muslims. The initiative, called the 'Resilience and Protection Foundation' (Waqf al-Sumud wa al-Himaya), aims to enhance the security of mosques, schools, and Islamic centers and to support families affected by attacks.
The announcement of the fund came after a shooting at an Islamic center in San Diego, California on May 18, which resulted in the deaths of three Muslims. The incident had raised concerns about the resurgence of hate crimes and threats against places of worship nationwide.
CAIR (Council on American-Islamic Relations) Deputy Director Edward Mitchell told Al Jazeera that many Islamic institutions lack the necessary resources and experience to protect themselves. Mitchell said, 'The foundation will help these institutions implement best security practices during a period of rising hate waves.'
Mitchell emphasized that the fund is not just about financial support, but also includes training programs with former law enforcement experts. These trainings will focus on threat management, evacuation plans, and response to serious incidents; additionally, a mosque security guide will be updated and widely distributed.
Abdurrahman Kemal, the imam of a mosque in Virginia, said that security is now the top priority. 'Security is a fundamental requirement for worshippers to be at peace. Especially in environments where children are present, the existence of such a foundation is vital to protect mosque staff and volunteers,' he said. Kemal added that incidents in the US and elsewhere clearly demonstrate the danger of hate speech turning into violence.
The founders of the initiative view the establishment of the foundation as a practical step against growing threats and a message to protect religious freedom. Officials noted that all segments of society should cooperate, stating that the efforts aim to make Islamic institutions across the country safer.
