Morgan Hill community condemns Islamophobia after assault

Community leaders in Morgan Hill, California, are speaking out against Islamophobia after an alleged hate crime targeting an elderly Muslim person. The incident occurred after a Ramadan celebration at the Morgan Hill Community and Cultural Center. According to Zahra Billo, the executive director of CAIR San Francisco Bay Area, a man verbally attacked several individuals and physically assaulted an elderly community member while expressing hatred towards Muslims and Palestinians. This happened as the community members were leaving the prayer service. Local police confirmed they investigated the disturbance, which is still ongoing. The investigation may include hate crime charges. Community members and leaders came together on Wednesday to call for an end to hate against Muslims, emphasizing the importance of support and unity. Santa Clara County Supervisor Sylvia Arenas and Morgan Hill City Councilmember Yvonne Martinez-Beltran were among those who helped organize the gathering, stating that the Muslim community deserves recognition and support. A resolution to reaffirm support for protected classes was passed by the county supervisors, with another under consideration in the city council. Members of the community expressed hope that coming together against hate would lead to positive change. Some attendees noted their disappointment that Morgan Hill Mayor Mark Turner had not spoken out more since the assault. Mayor Turner later explained he was unaware of the press conference until late and emphasized his opposition to hate crimes and division within communities.