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PRESS
RELEASE CHICAGO MUSLIMS STRONGLY CONDEMN THE SLAYING OF REPORTER DANIEL PEARL The Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago (a Federation of over 40 Islamic centers, schools & institutions representing over 450,000 area Muslims), unequivocally condemns in the strongest of terms the murder of Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl. In this holy month of the Hajj (annual pilgrimage to Mecca) and the Eid-ul-Adha celebration, the gruesome slaying of an innocent civilian and esteemed member of the press corp is an especial affront to every principle that Islam stands for. Islam places the utmost sanctity on all human life; American Muslims are distressed by and deplore such evil acts. Like the Sept. 11 attacks, this slaying is a merciless act that cannot be justified under any political or religious pretext assumed by the perpetrators. On behalf of the Chicago-area Muslim community, the Council sends its heartfelt sorrow and condolences to Mr. Pearl's wife, parents, and siblings, as well as his employer, the Wall Street Journal. We pray that God grants Mrs. Pearl strength and guidance during this extremely difficult time, and protects their unborn child. The Council is strongly appreciative of the Pakistani government's efforts to apprehend those who were involved in Mr. Pearl's kidnapping and murder. The perpetrators of this brutal crime should be brought to swift justice and steps taken to prevent any recurrences. The Council also urges the Pakistani authorities to do all that is possible to ensure the safety and security of all visitors to Pakistan, specifically including members of the press corps. ********************************************************* |
