AUSTIN - It’s a tragedy which has reached every corner of the country, and has an entire community condemning the actions of one person.
“I want to make it very clear that we categorically condemn any act of violence in the name of religion,” said Imam Mohamed-Umer Esmail.
President Obama weighed in early Tuesday morning debunking claims that ISIL represents Islam.
“If we fall into the trap of painting all Muslims with a broad brush and imply that we are at war with an entire religion then we are doing the terrorists work for them,” he said.
Local Muslim leaders insist Islam is a religion of peace and inclusiveness.
“Islam teaches tolerance and acceptance of people from all different walks of life and different opinions. It would be completely unacceptable for someone to teach exclusion of anybody from any background within your religion,” said Abeer Syed of the North Austin Muslim Community Center.
“We have our community of LGBTQ as well within the Muslim community,” said Imam Esmail.
Even in the face of unwarranted backlash and misdirected anger, Muslim leaders say the real priority is caring for those affected.
“I’m worried about sending our condolences to the ones who lost their lives and have been affected. I’m more concerned about how not to let anyone be in that situation ever again. And that’s the voice that needs to be louder. I think all of us who are working towards it need to be louder and more clear and not allow the voice coming from hatred to break us down,” said Syed.
Mayor Adler and other dignitaries will join Muslim leaders Saturday at UT for an iftar dinner-- that's the dinner eaten by Muslims after sunset during Ramadan. The goal is to bridge the gap between local officials and the Muslim community.