On March 15, a shooting in Christchurch, New Zealand took the lives of 50 Muslims during Friday prayer. A time that is meant for peace and reflection was turned into devastation and horror.

The effects of this attack were felt around the world, even in Newburgh, New York where a vigil was held at Masjid Al Ikhlas Mosque in solidarity for the lives lost.

“Our idea was to bring people from a variety of different backgrounds in Newburgh to the Mosque,” said Steven Majano, Vigil Organizer. “By bringing people from different backgrounds together it shows that we are a united community. To demonstrate that we will not tolerate hate as a community. There were Christians, Catholics, Jewish, and agnostic people there. In a moments’ notice 60-80 people stood together in solidarity.”

The idea to have a vigil was not one organizer, Ali Muhammad was keen on at first. He has been disheartened by action only in the wake of horrific events.

“I didn’t want to organize it because every time there is a terrorist attack I feel the need to tell people that Muslims aren’t terrorists and I was kind of tired,” said Muhammad. “A couple of people were calling and asking how we can be helpful. I said if people want it then we have to do it. Steven called, I picked up and then I called my father, called the Imam and reached out to the board because people were grieving and wanted to come together.”

The event brought together 60 to 80 members of the community from different religions and beliefs. Everyone engaged in discussions about the community and different ways to spread unity rather than hatred, they also discussed the teachings of the Quran to give members of the community insight on Muslim teachings.

Walking into Friday prayer at Masjid Al Ikhlas the atmosphere was peaceful and quiet. Dr. Quasar Chaoudhury, President of the Board of Directors of the Mosque, was quick to say although there is some national animosity towards the Muslim community, his congregation does not feel threatened or any hatred.

“We were very sad and at the same time we worry about our community here and our satery as a Muslim. Our immediate reaction was to make sure everyone here is safe, and to pray for the victims,” said Chaoudhury. “We pledged to remain steadfast on the path of God and not to surrender to the wrath of the people who commit these crimes. The people who commit these crimes are cowards. We are not afraid, we are not going to stay in our houses and not come to pray. We will continue to do as our religion tells us to do.”

City of Newburgh Police Chief, Doug Solomon confirmed that there have not been any threats to the Muslim community in Newburgh, but his department remains vigilant and on the look out for religious institutions such as the mosque.

“We do participate in periodic active shooting training and building assessments,” said Solomon. “We have an active shooting trainer on staff and participate in various locations around the city. We have a presence at the mosque in Newburgh and various locations but we have not received any specific threats.”

A New York State Police Trooper visited the Mosque to discuss concerns and how to move forward. Chaoudhury assured that although the congregation has not received any threats they will remain vigilant and maintain a closer relationship with the local police department.

Muhammad is organizing regular community building events to promote unity within the community. The first event is planned to take place at the end of April.

“It’s important that people come together no matter what,” says Muhammad. “It’s all about people coming together as a community and not only in the darkest times.”