9/11 Messages of remembrance
“9/11 impacted the American Muslim community in two ways. The attacks were on our country and faith. As we grieved for the lives of the innocent, we had to deal with our faith being tarnished. It has been a challenge for many Muslims; however, 9/11 did start a national conversation about Islam’s place in America. After 10 years, I am confident that the conversation has reinforced our nation’s pluralism.” - Rugiatu Conteh, Outreach and Communications Director, Council on American-Islamic Relations, Philadelphia Chapter
The burn of hunger, giving one's money to others, and performing extra prayers can be painful, and the temptation to go the easy road is always there. But by taking the hard road, I hope to end up with a healthier body, better relationships, and ultimately a satisfied conscience. It takes individual willpower and being different from everyone else for a little while. But these are short-term sacrifices for enduring gains.
Moein Khawaja, executive director of the Philadelphia branch of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, said when teaching religion, schools should cover basic beliefs and history. Talking about the small percentage of Muslims who are extremists is best saved for advanced politics and history classes, he said. He points to the terrorist attacks in Norway executed by Anders Behring Breivik, who identifies himself as a Christian. 
Two very important themes have emerged from the terrorist attack in Norway this past weekend, both of which require analysis and offer some interesting conclusions. One, some media have demonstrated a desire to jump to the conclusion that if an act of terrorism occurs, then there must be some Muslim involvement. Moreover, others have shown a clear double standard after learning the attack was committed by someone who is not a Muslim. Two, the attacker, Anders Behring Breivik, has revealed himself to be a right-wing, extremist Islamophobe. The question then emerges, why did he attack a government building and a youth camp, and not a mosque or Muslim institution?