(WASHINGTON D.C. - 11/12/2009) The Islamic Information Center is alarmed by recent reports that the Federal Government has begun the process of seizing mosques in the United States. Reports from this evening indicate that government agencies have begun the process of seizing mosques in New York, California, Texas, and Maryland.  At this time the mosques will remain open; however, IIC is concerned about the fate of these religious centers.

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The Islamic Information Center will observe and monitor this issue to ensure that there is no breach of civil rights by the government.  In its first amendment, the United States Constitution declares:


According to the Associated Press "It is extremely rare for U.S. law enforcement authorities to seize a house of worship, a step fraught with questions about the First Amendment right to freedom of religion."

The Islamic Information Center does not condone any illegal activities; however, the closing of mosques would represent significant issues with the ideals of this country, especially in regards to the 1st Amendment.  Closing the doors to these religious centers will prevent innumerable worshippers from participating in their daily religious obligations. Thousands of individuals attend these religious centers for the sake of worship, fasting, and prayer.

The New York Times has interviewed various congregants, quoting one: "This is a place of worship; anybody can come to pray, that's it," said Ali Naderi of Queens. "We are shocked."

The Associated Press indicated that this act "is sure to inflame relations between the U.S. government and American Muslims." The Islamic Information Center hopes for a positive resolution and asks the community for its prayers in this regard.