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Statement from Asian Law Caucus on Islamic Center of San Diego shooting
SAN FRANCISCO – Today San Diego community members learned of fatal shootings at the Islamic Center of San Diego, which serves as a school and mosque. The community mourns the tragic loss of five lives during Muslim observance of the holy month of pilgrimage in the Islamic calendar.
Asian Law Caucus released the following statement from executive director Aarti Kohli:
“We are devastated by the horrific act of violence at the Islamic Center of San Diego today. Our hearts are with those who were harmed, their families, the children who witnessed this, and the entire Muslim community that is once again being asked to carry the weight of grief and fear.
“No one should have to wonder whether they are safe while they pray, gather, or simply exist in community. And yet, this is the reality too many Muslim communities continue to face — violence fueled by a deepening climate of exclusion and hate. It must end.
“As an organization rooted in defense of civil rights and belonging, we stand in solidarity with our Muslim neighbors and with the San Diego community in this heartbreaking moment. We are holding close the leadership of those on the ground and will continue to follow their lead in how to best support those affected and the broader community.
“We ask those who are able to please donate directly to a crisis response fund set up by the Islamic Center for San Diego. We will share additional ways to support the victims’ families and those impacted as more information becomes available.”