Muslim Community In Boston Concerned For Safety After Terror Attacks
BOSTON (CBS) -- Abdullah Faaruuq, Imam of the Mosque for the Praising of Allah in Roxbury, says he's deeply concerned for the safety of Muslims in the community.
"I'm telling my family and my community Muslims to take their precautions," he says. "I mean to be vigilant because the climate in this country is going more negative on having concern for Muslims."
City leaders are hoping there won't be any backlash against Muslims living in the United States following the deadly shootings in California.
CBS News has reported that one of the killers pledged her allegiance to ISIS on Facebook before the attack. But Iman Abdullah Faaruuq says the Muslim community shouldn't be blamed.
"These people who say they are following Islam aren't following any teachings I've read to kill innocent people," he says.
Related: 'Backlash' Against Islamic Community Not Tolerated, Boston Police Commissioner Says
Boston Police Commissioner William Evans says police will be conducting regular patrols around all mosques. In November, two men were arrested after allegedly vandalizing a mosque in Burlington.
"We are making sure there is no backlash in the Muslim population," he said. "They are afraid, but we're going to make sure they are safe."
Boston Mayor Marty Walsh says he will be watching President Obama's address to the nation Sunday night. He stressed the importance of "if you see something, say something."
"I think the message at home is watch out for each other and take care of each other," he said. "Many Muslims here aren't the problem, and they shouldn't be discriminated against or picked upon."
