Chicago Muslims Mourn Death of Tom Fox
Chicago, March 14, 2006 - “Each day brings us a chance to make choices. Options to work towards leaving this world a better place or to stand by passively. Tom Fox chose to stand by his convictions and his dedication to peace will never be forgotten by the people of Iraq or Muslims world wide,” said Mr. Abdul Malik Mujahid, Chairman of the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago.

Extending condolences to Mr. Fox’s family on behalf of the Muslim community, Mr. Mujahid also expressed his deepest respect for the work that Christian Peacemaker Teams has undertaken. “The manner in which the organization has approached Mr. Fox’s death is admirable and courageous,” he added. “Despite such a loss, they’ve reaffirmed their resolve to work for peace and justice, and have called for forgiveness for those who’ve considered them enemies. It’s humbling as much as it is praiseworthy,” he said.

The Council has called Mr. Fox’s death ‘murder’ and ‘the work of extremists who use Islam as an excuse for their heinous deeds.’ His death is Un-Islamic and a gruesome stain on the religion.

The Chicago Muslim community will continue to demand the safe and speedy release of the three remaining CPT activists Harmeet Sooden, Jim Loney and Norman Kember who were abducted November, 2005 as well as the release of Journalist Jill Carol.

Council Chairman, Mr. Malik Mujahid can be reached at Malik@ciogc.org and (312) 804-1962 for interviews.

ABOUT THE COUNCIL OF ISLAMIC ORGANIZATIONS OF GREATER CHICAGO

The Council is a federation of 50 Mosques, Islamic Schools and a cross-section of over 400,000 Muslim Americans in the Greater Chicago area.