MAS-Freedom, NC calls for effective mental healthcare for soldiers experiencing chronic stress and mental instability
(North Carolina, 11/5/09) - The leading national Muslim civil rights and advocacy group tonight condemned an attack on Fort Hood military base in Texas that left at least 12 people dead and 31 wounded. In a statement from North Carolina, Muslim American Society- Freedom (MASF), a Washington based civic and human rights advocacy entity and sister organization of the Muslim American Society (MAS) said: “We condemn this terrible assault in the strongest terms possible and ask that no conclusions be drawn from the suspect’s religion or ethnic background, who is alleged to have suffered from post traumatic stress syndrome.

The continuing wars have led wanton and indiscriminate violence by those in the military, and has lead to numerous suicides among soldiers. The two wars, along with multiple deployments is affecting the families of United States soldiers and their communities. The attack was particularly heinous in that it targeted the all-volunteer army that protects our nation. American Muslims stand with our fellow citizens in offering both prayers for the victims and sincere condolences to the families of those killed or injured.”

Muslim American Society, Freedom reaffirms its commitment to non-violence, condemns the shootings and urges calm as the nation reacts to today’s tragedy. MAS-F also urges the end of war, which subjects American soldiers to the mental health problems, including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and suicide. These illnesses plague about one-fifth of troops returning from Afghanistan and Iraq.

American soldiers are facing difficulty reintegrating into the society. In recent months, Fort Bragg in North Carolina, has become notorious for the violence perpetrated by soldiers. Army Secretary Pete Geren has spoke about the physical and mental health issues facing soldiers who are fighting wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2008, the Army recorded 128 suicides, the highest number in 30 years.

NC-Freedom Director Khalilah Sabra said, “Most soldiers are aware of combat stress reactions from their training and from Army education campaigns. Over 70 percent of soldiers have complained of war related stress and seek help for interpersonal problems. These interpersonal issues are intensified by multiple deployments to places of horrific death and combat.”

Soldiers have become violent, injuring family members after returning home.
Executive Director of MAS-Freedom, Mahdi Bray will participate at a news conference.
WHAT: News Conference in Reaction to Fort Hood Shootings
WHEN: Thursday, November 5, 8 p.m. (Eastern)
WHERE: CAIR’s Capitol Hill Headquarters, 453 New Jersey Avenue, S.E., Washington, D.C.

MAS-Freedom is America's leading Muslim civil liberties organization. MAS-Freedom is a national movement of activist who campaign for human rights for all. Its mission is to empower advocacy and civil justice, encourage dialogue, and build coalitions that promote justice and understanding of Islam.
For additional information, visit www.masfreedom.org or www.masnet.org. Inquiries can also be made by contacting MAS Freedom at (202) 552-7414, (703) 642-6265 or 1-888-627-8471 for additional information. Email inquiries can be sent to info @ masfreedom.org.