DOJ civil rights head: US Muslims facing ‘trying times’

The head of the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) civil rights division on Sunday said Muslim Americans are facing “trying times,” with many feeling increasingly unwelcome in the U.S.

{mosads}“Amidst a ratcheting up of divisive rhetoric, we see criminal threats against mosques; harassment in schools; and violence targeting Muslim Americans and individuals perceived to be Muslim,” Vanita Gupta said during the Muslim Advocates Annual Gala in Millbrae, Calif., according to the DOJ’s website.

“This discriminatory backlash doesn’t just harm the Muslim community. It violates the defining values of our country. And it threatens all of us who call America home,” she added.

Gupta said Americans must unite against discriminatory actions and rhetoric targeting Muslims and other minority groups nationwide.

She added that President Obama and his administration remain committed to defending the religious liberty of all Americans.

“To anyone who feels afraid, targeted or discriminated against because of which religion you practice or where you worship, I want to say this — we see you,” Gupta said. “We hear you. And we stand with you.

“If you ever feel that somehow you don’t belong or don’t fit in, here in America, let me reassure you — you belong. And we will defend your rights to live free from violence, harassment and discrimination — rights that our Constitution guarantees and rights that form the bedrock of a free, open and inclusive society.”