Ellison Statement on Planned Quran Burning in Florida

Statement

Congressman Keith Ellison (DFL-Minneapolis) today released the following statement regarding the plans by a group in Florida to burn copies of the Quran on September 11th:

On a day when we should remember the victims and heroic first-responders of the September 11th attacks, a fringe group in Florida has decided to burn copies of the Quran in a deliberate attempt to provoke individuals of the Muslim faith.

This provocation should not be rewarded with a response. I urge caution, patience, and restraint, and I pray that no one takes the bait being dangled by this misguided group.

This group does not represent the sentiment of the American people. It dishonors those who died on September 11th by using the anniversary to fuel hatred and division.

United States General David Petraeus said that the burning of the Quran "is precisely the kind of action the Taliban uses and could cause significant problems… Not just here, but everywhere in the world we are engaged with the Islamic community. Images of the burning of a Quran would undoubtedly be used by extremists in Afghanistan -- and around the world -- to inflame public opinion and incite violence."

Just as Americans from all religious and ethnic backgrounds condemned the September 11th attacks, I am proud to know that Americans of all faiths have stepped forward to denounce the decision to burn copies of the Quran.

September 11 should remind us what is best about America. I call upon my fellow Americans to focus on healing, reconciliation, and religious harmony.

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