US community unites in spirit of slain Muslim teen
'You represent the spirit of Nabra,' Imam tells multiethnic, multireligious gathering
Washington DC
By Michael Hernandez
RESTON, Virginia
Thousands of supporters from the Washington DC area and beyond stood united Wednesday night as they remembered a slain Muslim teen known for her welcoming spirit.
"You represent the spirit of
"We
"She loved everybody,”
Hamdi Sharif, 16, a classmate of
While there is yet no evidence
"You never know where you're safe, not even at the mosque where you worship God," said Sharif, who was wearing the Islamic head covering, or hijab.
Fairfax Police Chief Edwin C. Roessler said IF officials find any evidence of a hate crime, they will pursue the charge.
“I promise we will bring justice for
Among the multitudes who showed up to remember
"As a society, we need to feel there is a certain level of dignity and safety that everybody can expect," he said. "The Muslim community has a lot of support out there, it's just that evil acts can overshadow that very quickly, which is sad."
The support from non-Muslims such as Chadwell was heartening for Amina Nahavandi, 20, who said it is critical people continue to interact with those with whom they have little experience.
"Get to know your
"You think you know someone because of what people say about them, but if people got to know each other, got to know people of different backgrounds," she said, "a lot of the hatred-fueled acts like this wouldn't exist."