In Theory:

“His name had barely been released, his heritage and history not immediately known, but the reaction was fast and furious,” began an article last week in the Canadian Press. Many questions remain about the alleged shooter, Maj. Nidal Hasan, with some reports alluding to a connection Hasan had with a military Islamic cleric Anwar al-Awlaki, who is calling Hasan a hero. As such, questions like “Were the shootings an act of terrorism?” and “Should Muslims be allowed to serve in the military?” are being asked throughout the blogosphere, much to the chagrin of Arab and Islamic organizations. Do you feel the Muslim community is being unfairly blamed for the actions of one Muslim person? Do you think too much is being made on the issue of religion in this case? How would you respond if allegations such as these were being made against your particular religion?

I have no blame for my fellow Americans for impulsively reacting to this horrific act of violence with “here we go again . . . another act of terrorism targeting Americans and committed in the name of Islam.”

It is an understandable emotional reaction based on the false perception that somehow Islam is the driving force behind such a tragedy. In times like these, American Muslims feel deep anguish, first for the victims, their families and our country, and on another level, for their faith, having to explain again that true and authentic Islam has nothing to do with hatred and violence. They also feel the imperative to put an end to the terrorist attacks and to the abuse of their religion.

What makes our country stand tall among nations is our ability, in the face of aggression, to evolve and adapt within the context of American pluralism. In other countries, the response to violence has been outright genocide, as in Rwanda; or ethnic cleansing as in the Balkans.

In the U.S., we have learned from the World War II internment of Japanese Americans. As our Army’s top officer, Gen. George Casey, has eloquently said, “Our diversity, not only in our Army, but in our country, is a strength. And as horrific as this tragedy was, if our diversity becomes a casualty, I think that’s worse.” America is a nation that can defend itself without sacrificing our distinguishing strength of character.