15 June 2011

King Holds 2nd Hearing on Muslim Radicalization

.... Going into Wednesday’s second hearing concerning radicalization in the prison system before the HomeSecurity Committee, which King chairs, the tone has died down considerably. But there is still concern in the Muslim community and other religious groups that these hearings are disenfranchising Muslim-Americans.

“The congressman’s focus on the whole community, singling out one community for this hearing is not right,” Dr. Faroque Khan, a member of the board of trustees for the Islamic Center of Long Island, told the Press. “It sends the wrong message, it’s counterproductive, it’s not going to accomplish anything, and it basically violates the first amendment; that he’s attacking the religion. “

Back in March, King’s four and 1/2 hour hearing was emotionally charged as both Democrats and Republicans listened to testimony from four speakers, including a father and an uncle who told stories of their loved ones becoming radicalized. [Long Island Press] Read more [via Islamophobia Watch]