Charlotte Gathering Discusses "Climate of Intolerance"

June 4, 2005

Source: Charlotte Observer

http://www.charlotte.com/mld/observer/news/local/11813073.htm

On June 4, 2005 the Charlotte Observer reported, "Area leaders representing Muslim, Christian and Jewish faiths united Friday and denounced what one described as a 'climate of intolerance' in the Charlotte area in recent weeks. 'We are seeing a trickle-down effect of an Islam-phobic climate that is allowed to flourish,' said Jibril Hough, a spokesman for the Islamic Center of Charlotte. Hough earlier cited two developments prompting Friday's gathering. In March, the Central Church of God withdrew its support of the Charlotte Rescue Mission, in part because three Muslim students helped serve a meal there. And last month, a Forest City Baptist church posted a sign that stated, 'The Koran needs to be flushed!' Leaders at the gathering said the events underscore the need for tolerance among all faiths."