CAIRO – The city council in Michigan City has voted in favor of a resolution that rejects anti-Muslim hate speech, reaffirming commitment to guarantee equal rights to all citizens.
“I am very thrilled that seven people saw the importance of it, but I am concerned that two did not,” Jeanette Neagu, chairperson of Concerned Citizens for Syrian Refugees, told The Northwest Indiana Times on Thursday, March 3.
Approved on Tuesday, the resolution was presented by Neagu, who runs the local group recently formed to raise money to help Syrian refugees with basic needs.
Despite the overwhelming support, the resolution has two opponents, including Councilman Chris Schwanke.
According to Schwanke, the guarantees outlined in the resolution are already provided for in the US Constitution and the stance might be viewed as favoritism toward one particular group.
He warned that the resolution might even lead to more harm to Muslims from publicity that could fuel the negativity some people feel toward Muslims.
Nevertheless, Neagu said she hopes the decision might catch on elsewhere to show a solid position against the rise of anti-Muslim hatred.
She said the resolution is an act that shows hatred should not be taken lightly.
“Since we all know what happened in Germany when people started expressing such hate, there is some grave concern that this situation needs to be stopped now,” said Neagu.
“I’d like to see all of the communities in the country take such a stand,” said Neagu.
The Islamic Center of Michigan City, founded in 1914, is one of the oldest mosques in the nation.
Commenting on the resolution, the Islamic Center president, Phil Dabagia, said it was important to help dispel myths about the faith.
Muslims make up 1% of America’s 322 million population, according to Pew Research center.
Anti-Muslim sentiments have flared by Republican presidential candidates, such as Donald Trump and Dr. Ben Carson.
Trump’s views on immigration have sparked controversy nationwide, especially his proposal to temporarily ban Muslims from entering the US.