Tennessee groups unite to denounce officials' comments on Muslims

Hamilton County Sheriff Jim Hammond speaks from his office about policing and jailing in Hamilton County in this file photo.
Hamilton County Sheriff Jim Hammond speaks from his office about policing and jailing in Hamilton County in this file photo.

Four statewide organizations released a joint statement today in response to the apparent anti-Muslim comments from several Tennessee elected officials and law enforcement leaders, according to a news release from the American Civil Liberties Union of Tennessee.

The message from the American Center for Outreach, the American Civil Liberties Union of Tennessee, the American Muslim Advisory Council and the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition says in part:

Recently the sheriffs of Hamilton and Sevier counties have both made alarmist and sensational anti-Muslim comments, on the heels of similar statements from state legislators. Inaccurate, sweeping indictments made by leaders in law enforcement endanger members of the very communities that they have taken an oath to protect. Not only do these statements send the wrong message to their respective communities, they stoke the flames of hate that could incite attacks against peaceful Americans.

Tennessee's elected public servants should seek to serve all Tennesseans-from all ethnic backgrounds and all religions. This is especially true with regard to law enforcement officials who are charged with insuring our day-to-day community safety. We urge law enforcement and Tennessee's elected officials to acknowledge and ensure that all Tennesseans are treated fairly and equally under the law.

Collectively, our organizations look forward to working with Sheriff Hammond, Sheriff Seals and other law enforcement and elected officials who have concerns or need assistance connecting with their local Muslim communities.

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