Unfortunately, the way most Americans are introduced to Islam is through the lens of terrorism and the invasion of Iraq.

Muslims need to do more outreach, invite people into their homes, because at the end of the day, it's up to us.

It reflects the climate that we're in that people would assume all Muslims condone this. We certainly don't.

We are a target of many hate campaigns, given our exposure on controversial issues. We screen them for threats. When it crosses the line, we report it to the FBI.

Rather than protests, we are asking Muslims to use their energy in getting the message across by conducting open houses, interfaith meetings or conducting an educational seminar with a DVD screening.

Images of violence confirm stereotypes that people have of the Muslim world. People on both sides of the issue have acted very irresponsibly, which has caused the escalation of the issue.