Valley Muslims say 9/11 is especially tense this year

PHOENIX - Valley Muslims say the approaching 9/11 anniversary is especially tense this year.

"It has been very different," said Deedra Abboud with the Muslim American Society. "It used to be people would say 'those people' or the 'terrorists' but now it is very personal and they are focusing on individuals. They see a Muslim and all of a sudden 'that is the enemy.'"

Part of the tension, Abboud says comes from the controversy over building a mosque at ground zero in New York and recent controversy surrounding a Florida preacher who is calling for people to burn the Koran on September 11th.

"It is frustrating and sad," she said.

Usama Shami with the Islamic Community Center said that this year they are being extra vigilant.

Just weeks ago, their mosque that is under construction near Interstate 17 and Glendale was vandalized. Three windows were broken or shot out, paint was splattered on the floor, and tables were over-turned.

"We don't know if it is related," said Shami. "But with so much hate speech and approaching 9/11, you have to think about it."

Shami said the damage will cost a couple thousand dollars to fix. "We are sad and depressed," he said.

Shami said that they will be taking extra precautions this weekend to protect worshipers and property.

The holy month of Ramadan ends September 9th and is followed by the celebration of Eid. Abboud says out of respect for September 11th, the Muslim American Society is not celebrating on that specific day.

The Arizona Interfaith Movement sent out a release Wednesday denouncing the displays of hatred around the country and here locally.

The Interfaith Movement supports all religious groups and individuals. They are sponsoring a supportive prayer service for the Islamic Community Center this Saturday at 5:00 p.m. at the Center at 7516 N. Black Canyon Highway in Phoenix.