Source: The Mercury News

http://www.bayarea.com/mld/mercurynews/news/6747668.htm

On October 23, 2003 The Mercury News reported that "in Fremont, students at the Peace Terrace Academy, a private Islamic school, gathered outside for a minute of silence. Two years ago, many students stayed home because their parents feared a backlash against the region's mosques. Today, many spoke of how they view Sept. 11 as both Americans and Muslims, patriots and believers of a religion that is still misunderstood.

The 82 students traced their hands with a magic marker on a large piece of paper meant to symbolize a 'Circle of Hope' and spoke about their desire for peace and greater understanding in the world.

'September 11 was a tragic day. People of all races died,' said Ali Johnson, an 8th grader. 'These terrorists claimed to be Muslims but they do not know that Islam is a religion of peace.'"