COMMUNITY & HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVIST RESPONDS TO MISLEADING, POLITICALLY CHARGED REMARKS. 

(Edison, NJ, September 11, 2019) We are concerned and disappointed that Republican candidates Jeffrey Brown and Hirsh Singh, have chosen to mislead the public and further fan the flames of hate and bigotry by misrepresenting the words and general spirit of unity spoken by Sam Khan at a recent American Muslim Council meeting as “hate filled” and a “call for jihad”.  Mr. Khan, speaking in his native Pakistani tongue to a multicultural audience, quoted and misspoke Mohammed (Peace be Upon Him) when he used the word “jihad” in its most literal, Arabic translation of “striving or struggling, especially for a praiseworthy aim”.  The quote was a call for those concerned with the atrocities in Kashmir to exercise one of the most sacred rights as Americans and speak out.  “It is our responsibility to reach out to the mayors in all towns, our councilmen and congressmen.  We have to tell them what is going on in Kashmir”.  

For over a decade, Sam has embodied his words of peace and harmony for people of all faiths and all origins into his actions. He has single handedly brought people together in times of crisis, year after year in forums both public and private. The attempts to discredit his selfless work and stifle his voice for the oppressed people of Kashmir for political gain should not stand. 

Mr. Khan does regret his use that particular quote because of the word “jihad’s” negative connotations, particularly here in the United States.  However, by characterizing his statements as “hate-filled” is an irresponsible, political maneuver that borders on defamation.