National LGBTQ Task Force Condemns Murder of New York City Imam and Assistant

New York, NY, August, 15, 2016—The National LGBTQ Task Force is condemning the murder of Imam Maulama Akonjee and his assistant Thara Uddin in New York City this weekend.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Imam Maulama Akonjee’s and Thara Uddin’s families and the worshippers at Al-Furqan Jame Masjid mosque. The Imam by all accounts was a popular figure who commanded respect from across the entire community. It’s unclear at this stage what the motivation for these murders is. However, the atmosphere of islamophobia being drummed-up by some politicians and media pundits clearly helps create an atmosphere where violent crimes motivated by hate are more likely,” said Rev. Rodney McKenzie, Director of the Academy for Leadership and Action, National LGBTQ Task Force.

–30–

CONTACT:
Jorge Amaro
Media and Public Relations Director
213-842-7564
jamaro@thetaskforce.org