SAN ANTONIO – In the wake of recent terror attacks, the backlash against the religion of Islam is something local Muslims say, is unfair, and unwarranted. But at the Muslim Children Education and Civic Center on Friday, there was a show of solidarity from strangers, as they came together in support of the Islamic community.
“It breaks my heart to see a religion distorted,” said Maria Tobin, one of the supporters. “Whether that's the Muslim faith, or the Jewish or the Christian, we need to get to the core of the beauty in every religion.”
Other supporters, like Richard Reed, a professor at Trinity University, agreed with that sentiment, saying it’s important to let the Muslim community know, they are not alone.
“There's so much fear that people are struggling with,” Reed said. “And one of the ways we can combat that fear, is coming together as a community.”
For those on the receiving end of Friday's warm welcome, there was a sense of thankfulness and gratitude.
“Right now, Islam is going through hard times,” said Shawn Hyder, a member of the Muslim faith. “Everything going on in Syria and everything going on around the world. Right now, it's great to see people come out and supporting us, and helping us, and standing behind us, because right now that's what we need.”