Who Supports ISNA? National Council of Churches

Special Announcement

Statement by Michael Kinnamon on ISNA’s Designation as an

Unindicted Co-Conspirator in the Holy Land Foundation Case

As an ally and friend of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA), I lament that the

United States of America has neglected to consult with ISNA leadership before publicly designating the organization as an “unindicted co-conspirator” in the alleged terrorist funding activity of the Holy Land Foundation. One of the greatest strengths of the United States is diversity.  Yet since September 11th, it has become increasingly socially acceptable to fear difference in others, occasionally even in the arenas of law and public policy.  In the Holy Land Foundation case, the government has neglected to respectfully question and consult ISNA leaders as fellow Americans about the nature of their involvement with this case. Without the opportunity to defend themselves, ISNA has been presented to the public as guilty until proven innocent: a violation of their Fifth Amendment rights.  The label of “co-conspirator” is damaging to the excellent reputation of ISNA and those who collaborate with them to build a better America.

Like the National Council of Churches (NCC), ISNA not only serves as a resource for the spiritual development of the faithful, but also offers a religious response to the pressing social issues of our time.  Muslim-Christian dialogue is more important than ever for promoting the essential building block of peace: mutual understanding.  For this reason, NCC and ISNA have been engaging in rich Muslim-Christian dialogue since January of 2008.  In my experience working with ISNA, their leaders have offered the United States a strong and consistent Muslim voice for peace.  From their interfaith collaboration to end nuclear weapon proliferation to their work to prevent domestic violence, ISNA has collaborated effectively with others to promote national security.  For this reason, support of violent terrorist tactics seems diametrically opposed to the character of this distinguished body of the North American Muslim faithful.

It is my sincere hope that the damage done by this discriminatory action can be reversed and that ISNA will continue to manifest God’s peace in North America.