ADC Statement on Deadly Apparent Anti-Muslim Attack at the Islamic Center of San Diego

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 18, 2026
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ADC Statement on Deadly Apparent Anti-Muslim Attack at the Islamic Center of San Diego

Washington, D.C. | ADC mourns the three lives senselessly taken in the deadly attack at the Islamic Center of San Diego, what appears to be a horrific act of anti-Muslim violence.

For decades, Arab and Muslim communities in the United States have faced hate, harassment, surveillance, scapegoating, and political demonization. These policies and rhetoric are even more dangerous when they are adopted by government officials such as Florida Congressman Randy Fine or media personalities like Bill Maher. When powerful political and media figures embrace dehumanization of certain groups, it paves the way for harassment, intimidation, and the type of violence we have seen today.

Nothing can bring back the lives stolen today. But we must be clear about the climate that makes violence like this possible, and we must confront it directly.

We call on public officials, law enforcement, and community leaders to protect Arab and Muslim communities, condemn hate without hesitation, and reject the politics of fear and division that put scapegoated communities in danger.

About ADC

The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) is the largest Arab American grassroots organization in the United States, founded in 1980 by former Senator James Abourezk.  ADC’s mission is to defend and promote the human rights, civil rights, and liberties of at least 3.7 million Arab Americans residing in the United States. Through its work, ADC fights discrimination, enhances public understanding of Arab history and culture, and partners with marginalized communities globally to advance social justice.