Bellone at inaugural tips hat to Suffolk Muslim community
Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone, in his second inaugural speech last week, took a clear swipe at recent talk of banning Muslim immigration.
He said policies have been carried out that make it clear “we celebrate our diversity in this county, which includes recognition of the incredible contributions that hardworking and patriotic Muslim-Americans make every day.” Terrorism would not be defeated “by vilifying friends and neighbors or imposing religious tests that betray our values,” Bellone said.
Imam Amin Ur Rahman of the Islamic Association of Long Island in Selden led the last of four prayers on the program. He also gave the benediction at Bellone’s swearing-in four years ago.
— David M. Schwartz
David Schwartz covers environmental issues. A native Long Islander, he's worked at Newsday since 2013.
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