The Islamic Center of Tucson received flowers Tuesday morning from a woman expressing solidarity with the mosque.Β
The woman, perhaps college-aged, brought the flowers into the office of the Islamic Center, 901 E. First St., but declined to give her name when asked, said Ahmed Meiloud, the president of the Islamic Center. Β
"She said, 'No, I just want to share the flowers with you,'" Meiloud said, when they asked for her name.Β
A note attached to the flowers reads, "You are loved. From one human to another, please know there is more love than hate ... I hope you have a great day."Β
Since the attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, California, fear and hatred directed at Muslims has increased nationwide. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has called to block Muslims from entering the U.S., and in Philadelphia, a pig's head was thrown outside a mosque Monday morning, the Associated Press reported.Β
But in Tucson, flowers.Β
The Islamic Center of Tucson posted the photograph of the flowers on its Facebook page, adding that the center has received messages from others in the city expressing support.Β
"We haven't seen anything negative so far (from the Tucson community)," Meiloud said. "It's been mostly positive."
Meiloud added that women who wear a hijab, or head scarf, are conspicuous and therefore often deal with negative comments first. While members of the ICT are concerned about attitudes toward Muslims right now, they are also encouraged, Meiloud said.Β
"Yes, the bigots are real, but so are the beautiful souls who support and understand truth and justice for all people in this country," the ICT wrote as part of its caption to the photograph.Β
