Letter: Errors in Imam Protest Article

by Julia Lutch

There are multiple “errors of fact” in Protestors Call for the Ouster of the Imam.

The event was not a “rally” – it was a silent vigil. No one chanted, sang or shouted, and no one walked back and forth.

There were no bullhorns, megaphones, or speeches. There was no name-calling.

This is not merely “what they called a peaceful protest” – it was perfectly peaceful, and one wishes that the students on UC campuses would behave with as much dignity.

“What they called” is language chosen with the intent of casting aspersions upon the vigil, and does not constitute anything resembling accurate reporting of atmosphere of the vigil.

The silent vigil was organized by one person, and that person is not a Bet Haverim congregant, despite what was claimed in the article.

There were many Christians from churches in Yolo, Placer and Sacramento counties, as well as people unaffiliated with any congregation, all of whom were appalled at the silence of mosque congregants in the face of blatant anti-Semitic sermons by their imam. This is a fundamental violation of American values and of everything that attracts immigrants to our country.

(Editor’s note: The Vanguard based the line “The Vanguard has learned that the rally was organized by a Bet Haverim congregant” on an email received that was sent prior to the event.  The single referent to a rally did not intend to imply chanting or singing.  The Vanguard acknowledges the reference to an organizer is apparently in error and apologizes for the mistake).