Assimilation and cooperation with their adopted American communities was the focus of Muslim leaders gathered at the Palestinian American Community Center on Saturday.
Heartened by support from neighbors and religious groups in response to a presidential executive order banning travel into the U.S. for people of seven Middle Eastern countries, leaders met to determine future steps toward further acceptance.
“If anything, the country has mobilized in solidarity with the Muslim community,” said Abdul Hassan of East Orange. “Support from Christians and Jews is at an all-time high.”
Leaders from Jersey City, Prospect Park, Clifton and East Orange gathered to compare notes on how they have gained acceptance in their communities, and how others can join the effort.
Jimmy Small, president of the East Orange Public Library Board of Trustees, said he had previously served several terms on council, and that service anywhere in the community would improve understanding.
“There are so many asking what can they do,” said Small. “We need to get into every position we can. Start with the small jobs and work up.”
Jessica Berrocal-Abdelnabbi told of her efforts to organize woman voters and food banks in Jersey City.
“I am working with a group and they just need a little encouragement,” she said. “There are going to be isolated incidents, but it helps that we are in the New York City metropolitan area.”
Yassine Elkaryani, managing partner at Mercy Tech Consulting, noted residents are “not informed about what happens at council meetings, the board of education.”
“We have to find ways to reinforce existing policies with the community,” said Eklaryani.
Prospect Park Mayor Mohamed T. Khairullah, who issued a sanctuary city executive order Friday, encouraged the group to provide solutions that support legal immigration without “ripping families apart.”
“America is a great country built by refugees, and they are the most innovative,” Khairullah said. “Don’t forget Steve Jobs was the founder of Apple, and he is the son of a Syrian immigrant.”