Editorial: Anti-Muslim graffiti won’t help us to heal

Misdirected venom is no part of the solution

By:
   The recent terrorist events in New York City, Washington D.C. and western Pennsylvania have brought many people of our nation together, creating a powerful network of support.
   That support has resulted in such a resurgence of spirit and determination in local residents after such devastating incidents, it feels like a cold compress on a fevered brow.
   But just as such trials bring out the best in some people, in others, it has brought out less admirable qualities.
   We were saddened to learn two Florence Township gas stations were vandalized with anti-Muslim graffiti.
   Vicious sentiments were scrawled on one gas station’s bathroom wall and another’s rear wall.
   We certainly understand the anger and rage many people have felt watching the images on television of an America knocked on its back.
   But such misdirected venom at an entire religious group is not only counterproductive to healing and resolution, it also is misdirected and vindictive.
   None of the gas station employees were of the Muslim faith, and even if they were, such bitter sentiments would still be inappropriate.
   This is what we feared the most from such recent events — fear and anger directed toward anyone perceived as different or "un-American."
   During this trying time, many of the Muslim faith have rightly expressed worry and fear for their safety, simply because some uneducated people have made a decision to assign blame due to what they perceive as a connection.
   Osama bin Laden and his followers are an evil entity unto themselves, and rightly, the Muslim community does not want to be associated with such a group.
   Florence Township Police Capt. Joseph Gadbois said it best. He wants people to remember not to fight among themselves or lash out with anger at those who are not involved.
   And while our hearts and prayers are still focused on the victims of such tragic events, we also will be relieved when the graffiti artists are arrested.