OUTPOURING FROM BOULDER SHOOTING

The country is rocked with news of another mass shooting, this one taking place in Boulder. Just like many other shootings, the killer is a possibly mentally ill male who gained possession of a gun and performed an incredible act of violence with it. However, unlike other shootings, the ripples of this horrific event may create waves in the U.S. landscape.

The Colorado suspect belongs to two highly marginalized communities, immigrants and Muslims, and although the suspected killer is an individual, some may consider his alleged actions to be a representation of the communities to which he belongs.

Not only is this perspective wrong, it could threaten the safety of individuals belonging to these groups and deepen the divides within the nation.

Coming from an immigrant Muslim family myself, I am confident in the compassion of Islamic teachings and understand the value that immigrants bring to society.

In chapter 5 of the Holy Quran it is explained that the unjust killing of one human is equivalent to killing all of mankind. This teaching, along with many others, greatly emphasizes the love for humanity that is propagated through the teachings of Islam and demonstrates the fundamental difference between Islamic beliefs and the actions of the shooter.

Individuals have the power to change society by educating themselves on such differences and cultivating empathy in their interactions to make the world a kinder place.

May the souls of the departed find peace in the afterlife and justice prevail on Earth.

Seenam S. Shah, Antioch, Calif.