Media Discrimination Against Muslims

Re “Current Events Test O.C. Schools,” Sept. 24:

The Orange Crescent School community was shocked at the negative sentiment and anti-American overtone of the article and questions your reporter’s intention. We appreciate The Times’ effort to facilitate a better understanding of Islam to the general public, however, we are concerned that the article unfortunately did more harm than good. We have received numerous disturbing telephone calls and letters mentioning the article and its suggestion that we are demeaning America and misguiding innocent children.

Our students are American citizens, as is the principal. We do not believe and have never stated that America discriminates against Muslims. America provides freedom of religion that cannot be found in many Muslim countries. Our statement was that the media discriminates against Muslims. However, a more accurate statement is some persons in the media discriminate against Muslims.

We, additionally, found disturbing the juxtaposing of quotes, comments and opinions that gave an unsettling negative spirit to our school and the principal’s efforts. We teach our children to love God and their fellow citizens, to do good deeds and to strive for excellence in all that they do. Our school is known throughout the Orange County area as a balanced, respectable institution; why would your reporter injure our reputation by such mischaracterization?

Our students are frightened and concerned about family members overseas, but we collectively condemn the horrific behavior of those responsible for the tragedy of Sept. 11, and support them being brought to justice. We stand for what is right and teach that to our students. Further, we teach our students to have faith in God and to know that beyond all of this tragedy, a good result will emerge for America and human society. Our students are resolved to show that Islam is good.

As your reporter sat in our classroom, a father and son, whom we did not know, took the day off to join us so that they could learn more about Islam. The conversation that ensued between the guests and our students was inspiring. We thought it was a great story but it was not even mentioned. Among the numerous lessons we are learning as human beings, may we learn that our intentions must be honorable --what we intend will be realized.

Dr. Zakiyyah Muhammad

Principal

Orange Crescent School

Garden Grove