Dearborn activist concerned for Arab-Americans and Muslim-Americans

DEARBORN, MI - There is growing concern about backlash against the Arab-American community following the Paris attacks.

A Dearborn activist fears innocent people may be targeted in the acts of hate.

At the American Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee in Dearborn, Director Fatina Abdrabboh represents a community of Arabs and Muslims denouncing ISIS and the attacks in Lebanon and Paris.

"It's important to know that Arab-Americans and Muslim-Americans, their community centers, their leadership, contrary to popular belief, have condemned in the most unequivocal, clear terms, condemned, condemned, condemned, the acts of terrorism committed by these really monstrous people," said Abdrabboh.

She's concerned about backlash against this community, like a tweet investigated over the weekend that was calling on people to Dearborn because of its large Muslim population, and send a message to ISIS.

"The hate speech directed toward this community presents a number of alarming situations whereby Islamic centers, Arab-American businesses, and really huge chunks of the community remain concerned for their safety in terms of backlash," said Abdrabboh.

She is also concerned about Governor Snyder's decision to stop allowing Syrian refugees into the state, pending homeland security's review of security clearances and procedures.

"The Syrian refugees have been victimized by ISIS in the most egregious horrible ways," said Abdrabboh.

She says the families destined for Michigan have been traumatized and terrorized by ISIS. They've been vetted and screened and deserve sanctuary.

"Arabs and Muslims worldwide have been the victims of ISIS, more than any other group combined, so we know all too well what it feels like to be the object of these monstrous attacks and we really just stand in horror and solidarity with all peace loving people on earth," said Abdrabboh.