In a meeting between Captain Adeel Rana of the New York Police Department (NYPD) and Dr. Ammaar Saeed, discussions centered on Muslim protection and crime rates in New York City. The NYPD has been vocal about its commitment to safeguarding all communities, including implementing measures to protect Muslim residents, amid concerns over hate crimes and surveillance practices.
Police Commissioner Edward A. Caban emphasized the ongoing commitment of the NYPD to ensuring public safety in every neighborhood of New York City. Despite a decrease in overall crime by 4.1%, there are notable increases in hate crimes, particularly targeting individuals based on race, religion, or sexual orientation. Hate crimes surged by 33%, with victims predominantly being Black, Jewish, Muslim. While there have been declines in various crime categories such as murder, shootings, rape, robbery, and grand larceny, there are concerning upticks in transit crime, felony assaults, and car thefts.
A 60-page NYPD report, obtained by The Associated Press, reveals a 2007 surveillance operation targeting Muslims in Long Island and Newark, New Jersey. Plainclothes officers infiltrated mosques, Muslim student groups, and businesses frequented by Muslims, documenting their activities and locations. The report admitted that these intelligence-gathering efforts exceeded NYPD’s jurisdiction and found no evidence of terrorism or criminal activity prompting the operation.
In the wake of the 21st anniversary of the September 11 attacks, the lasting effects of Islamophobia on Muslim Americans persist, as highlighted by Hussam Ayloush, executive director of the Los Angeles chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. FBI data underscores a troubling trend of hate crimes against Muslims surging post-9/11 and continuing today. Ayloush attributes this to persistent stereotypes perpetuated by Islamophobes and the media, leading to ongoing discrimination, bullying, and violence against Muslims.
In a meeting between Captain Adeel Rana of the New York Police Department (NYPD) and Dr Ammaar Saeed, discussions revolved around ensuring Muslim protection and addressing crime rates in New York City. Captain Rana’s involvement follows a backdrop of heightened anti-Muslim sentiment, particularly in the aftermath of domestic and international terrorist attacks and follows the city’s announcement of settling lawsuits alleging NYPD surveillance of Muslims post-9/11. The settlement aims to implement reforms, including prohibiting investigations driven by factors such as race, religion, or ethnicity.
Expressing gratitude for the invitation, Lt. Rana, also the president of the NYPD Muslim Officers Society, stated,
“As an American Muslim dedicated to serving my country and fellow Americans, I view this opportunity as a chance to represent the diverse Muslim American community” (Adeel Rana).
He emphasized the importance of fostering understanding and cooperation within neighborhoods, urging Muslim Americans to engage in open dialogue with their neighbors while practicing their faith. ” He continued,
“From healthcare professionals saving lives to educators shaping the future generation, and from the brave men and women of our armed forces to law enforcement officers protecting our streets, Muslim Americans play a vital role in enriching the diverse tapestry of America.”
Dr Ammaar Saeed echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of kindness and community engagement in Islam, stating,
“In Islam, you have to be kind, understanding, and helpful to your neighbor.”
He encouraged mutual learning and dialogue between mosques and the wider community to better serve the interests of all residents. Dr Ammaar Saeed further emphasized the significance of building bridges between religious communities, stating,
“We must reach out to our neighbors, mosques, and fellow community members, fostering understanding and mutual respect.”
And continued,
“After the 9/11, the hate has increased against Islam and many Muslims are becoming a target of haters, as recent reports of attacks on Imams, we are in support of NYPD to stop the hate crimes and remove the misconceptions about Islam”.
Additionally, ” Adeel Rana reiterated the commitment to upholding the values of diversity and inclusion, asserting,
“Together, we can work towards ensuring that New York City remains a beacon of tolerance and acceptance for people of all faiths and backgrounds.”
In closing, Captain Adeel Rana and Dr Ammaar Saeed reiterated their commitment to enhancing the safety and inclusivity of Muslim communities in New York City. They emphasized the significance of ongoing collaboration between law enforcement and community leaders to combat racism and hate crimes, underscoring the importance of fostering trust and unity among residents of diverse backgrounds.