The City of Albuquerque’s Office of Equity and Inclusion and Mayor Tim Keller released the following statement following the arson attack at the Islamic Center of New Mexico.

Dec. 29, 2021

The FBI has identified the suspect that set a series of fires at the Islamic Center of New Mexico on November 29. The arson attack was a horrible act of disregard for the lives and safety of our friends, family and neighbors who worship at the mosque. The City of Albuquerque continues to stand in solidarity with the Albuquerque Muslim community.

The Islamic Center serves as a meeting place and spiritual center for up to 2,000 members of the Muslim community. Their safety is very important to all of us. Acts of violence, particularly those defined as hate crimes, will not be tolerated in our City.

“Acts like this one that targets Albuquerque’s Islamic faith community have no place in our city,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “With one voice, Albuquerque clearly reaffirms our support and solidarity with our Muslim community.”

 “We must remember that Albuquerque has a long and proud history of welcoming immigrants and refugees and of safeguarding the civil rights of all people who live here, and we will continue to do so,” said Beatriz Valencia, Immigrant and Refugee Liaison for the City of Albuquerque. “The safety of our community is a priority for our administration.”

For more information about how to report discrimination or xenophobia or hate crimes, go to cabq.gov/oei.