Community Corner

Local Somali Group Issues Statement on Kenya Mall Attack

'In the strongest terms we condemn this act, which is against our values as Muslims, as Somalis and as Americans.'

by Omar Shekhey

We, the Somali American Community Center, are horrified by the recent terrorist act at Westgate Mall in Nairobi, Kenya, which resulted in the destruction of innocent lives. We express our deepest sympathies and sorrow.

In the strongest terms we condemn this act, which is against our 
values as Muslims, as Somalis and as Americans.

The Somali community of Atlanta stands in solidarity with the Kenyan government and the people of Kenya in this hour of grief. We send our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pray for full and speedy recovery for the injured.

The terrorist group behind this shameful act does not represent or speak for all Somalis, who are a peace-loving people. We reject this kind of terrorism, which is against our culture, our religion, and our way of life.

For many years Kenya has given refuge to Somali men, women, and children fleeing violence and persecution. We are very grateful to the Kenyan people for the humanitarian assistance and support that has been provided to Somali refugees in Kenya.

Again we send our deepest condolences to the victims, their families, and their loved ones and we wish those injured a speedy recovery.

Mr. Shekhey is president of Clarkston-based Somali American Community Center.


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