Rep. Smith Condemns San Diego Mosque Attack, Calls on Congress to Reject Anti-Muslim Hate

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.) released the following statement in response to the hate crime targeting the Islamic Center of San Diego:

"I unequivocally condemn the terror attack targeting the Islamic Center of San Diego. This was an act of anti-Muslim hate, and we must call it exactly that.

"But condemnation alone isn't enough. We must be honest about the environment in which this violence is occurring. Recent congressional hearings have portrayed Muslim Americans - their mosques, schools, and civic organizations - as part of a foreign threat network. Witnesses with documented ties to anti-Muslim hate movements have been given a congressional platform to dehumanize an entire faith community. These are not legitimate oversight hearings. They are taxpayer-funded platforms for fearmongering.

"Words have consequences. In our democracy, we can disagree - but we must do so with honesty and respect, not fear and hate. Every American, no matter their faith, deserves to feel safe. We must stand up for Muslim Americans and all communities that are being targeted."

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