Assalaamu Alaikum
We are all aware of the fast changing political climate facing us this election season. With an uptick in hate crimes, especially targeting Muslims and our places of worship, the Board of Trustees, Az-Zahra Center, has taken a few steps towards safety of our center. While we expect our law enforcement agencies (police, sheriff’s department, FBI, etc) to address unsafe conditions, they are only human and cannot be at all places at all times. We need to be informed and knowledgeable about our responsibilities regarding personal safety and recognize threats affecting us individually. We must take all reasonable measures to protect our lives and properties as well as Az-Zahra. A few recent incidents, including an arson fire at a North KC Masjid, reminds us that we are living in unpredictable times. Az-Zahra Center is blessed to have wonderful and caring neighbors who have called us when they noticed suspicious persons, they cannot be relied upon at all times. Ultimately, we are responsible for our own well-being.
The Board is aware of the current situations and have taken steps to improve the center’s security. We will be investing in upgrading our surveillance cameras, adding more lights on the light poles and on the building, improving the interior alarm system, and beefing up the front gate. To improve the necessary safety and security measures, we need the financial support and participation from our community. The estimates we have received for the purchase of hardware and installation ranges between $8,500 and $10,000. We realize this is not a small sum of money but the security of the center and the safety of our community is paramount. Hence, we need your assistance in meeting this objective. It is everyone’s responsibility to achieve this goal – to beef up security as soon as possible.
I ask all those who can afford to contribute whatever they can to contact me or any of the board members. Any amount you give towards this project would be appreciated. And, your donation would be tax deductible. May Allah (swt) bless you and your efforts in making this a safe environment for all of us.
Jameel Agha
On behalf of the BOT, Az-Zahra