Debbie Dingell: “It is highly appropriate that we welcome Imam Yahya Hendi. This body represents all Americans, and it is extremely…”

“It is highly appropriate that we welcome Imam Yahya Hendi. This body represents all Americans, and it is extremely appropriate, then, that we should welcome the Imam today to help celebrate the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan, which is set to begin tomorrow. Islam is not only one of the world's great religions, but it is one of the great American religions. American Muslims have immigrated to this country from all corners of the globe, and in all parts of the United States Muslims are valued, integral members of our communities. It is an honor for me to represent the largest Arab American community in the United States. As Ramadan begins, I extend my personal greetings to all Muslim Americans, particularly my friends and constituents in Michigan's 16th District. Mr. Speaker, I also send best wishes to our Muslim friends and allies in the Middle East and South Asia, as well as Muslims in all corners of the world. To our allies in the Islamic world, I would also like to express my gratitude for their friendship, particularly at this difficult time. As President Bush has pointed out, the United States is not at war with Islam. We are at war with terrorism. Mr. Speaker, some of what has been said over the last couple of months has painted a highly inaccurate picture of Islam. Islam is not a religion of division and intolerance, but rather, a religion which values diversity and understanding. It is, above all else, a religion of peace and progress.”