About a dozen imams from mosques in all five of New York City's boroughs have gathered to denounce violent extremist acts around the world.
At a press conference today on the steps of City Hall, the president of the Islamic Leadership Council of Metropolitan New York said that Islamic law forbids violent terrorist acts.
Imam Al-Hajj Talib Abdur-Rashid also said that his group would start an initiative to combat extremist thinking. That effort will include online posts countering propaganda and partnerships with groups that balance public safety with respect for constitutional rights.
Abdur-Rashid also said that on Friday, mosques throughout New York will hold simultaneous sermons denouncing extremism. He also said next month his group will sponsor open houses at various mosques citywide.
