DNC Chairman Greets Muslims on Eid al-Adha

Following is the text of a February 20 American Muslim Council press release:

WASHINGTON, DC, February 20, 2002: The American Muslim Council received the following message on Eid al-Adha from Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman Terry McAuliffe:

"On behalf of the Democratic Party, it is an honor to send Muslim Americans and Muslims around the world best wishes in recognition of Eid al-Adha. Our nation is deeply enriched by the contributions of six million Muslim Americans, who embrace the true values of Islam -- respect, compassion, and belief in the dignity of all human life. The Democratic Party will continue to denounce the actions of any individual or group that would attempt to soil the reputation and convictions of the Muslim faith.

"For the last ten days, millions of Muslims have gathered in Mecca to complete the pilgrimage of Hajj and commemorate the trials of Abraham and his family. Abraham is a figure revered by Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike, and at this time, we are all united in prayer that tolerance and peace will prevail for all the people of the world.

"Eid Mubarak and God Bless."

Dr. Nedzib Sacirbey, Secretary of Board, and the acting Executive Director of AMC adds: "The AMC received Eid greetings from Mr. Teryy McAuliffe, Chairman of Democratic National Committee (DNC). We appreciate this gesture of good will and recognition that American Muslims are equal part of our country, the USA."

(Distributed by the Office of International Information Programs, U.S. Department of State. Web site: http://usinfo.state.gov)