Today we remember the innocent lives lost seventeen years ago in a senseless act of hate and violence. As we mourn with the families of those who perished, we are each transported back to that horrific day. In our grief and pain, we rededicate ourselves to our promise to never forget and to make this country a better, stronger and safer place for all.

In addition to commemorating the lives lost at the World Trade Center, Pentagon and in a Pennsylvanian field, we also honor all those American men and women who have served our country in the military and as civil servants to ensure our safety and the endurance of the greatest freedoms enjoyed by any citizenry around the world.

AIC was founded on the principle that American Muslims must take the lead in building tolerance and fostering respect for all in the United States. We unequivocally condemn terrorism. We denounce intolerance, hate speech and violence, both within and towards our community.

AIC’s programs and initiatives have grown to reach abroad to Muslim majority countries, where we have a responsibility to champion freedom, human rights and peaceful co-existence. We will continue our work, inspired by those around us who also endeavor to make the United States safer and stronger and to spread our freedoms with others around the world.

Zainab Al-Suwaij
Co-Founder, American Islamic Congress