CHICAGO: After a decade of hard work and efforts of several organizations, US Congress has formally recognized Islam as one of the great world religions and agreed that it rejects "hatred, bigotry and violence directed against Muslims, both in the United States and worldwide" This was part of a House resolution # 635 that was passed with a 376-0 votes recently.

The resolution, that marks a milestone in the history of Muslims in America, was introduced by Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) and co-sponsored by 30 legislators, including Representative Keith Ellison of Minnesota. Ellison is the first Muslim to be elected to the US Congress."

The American Muslim Voice (AMV) President Khalid Saeed welcomed the resolution and said that the historic Congress move underscores the tradition of religious pluralism and religious freedom in America. Corey Saylor, Government Affairs Director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations said: "It’s a sign that Muslims in America are growing in their recognition as being part of the mainstream fabric of the United States."

"Keith Ellison, a co-sponsor of the resolution said that the House resolution shows "solidarity between America and the Muslim community across the world." "It’s a sign of respect and recognition." The author of the bill, Eddie Bernice Johnson, told the House, "The Muslim American community contributes to the vibrant growth of American society and culture. Muslim Americans play a significant role in our nation’s political process, economic growth, scientific development, free enterprise, religious Following points were highlighted and recognized by the House of Representatives:

· Islamic faith as one of the great religions of the world · Friendship and support for Muslims in the United States and worldwide · Onset of Ramadan as the Islamic holy month of fasting and spiritual renewal · Rejection of hatred, bigotry, and violence directed against Muslims, both in the United States and worldwide Some of the individuals that supported this Resolution are: Khurshid Khan, President ICNA, Sher Mohd Rajput, Kasim Ahmed, Pharmacy manager, M Hameedullah Khan, Islamic Scholar Hafiz Yakub Shareef, Dr Syed Jamal CPA, Dr Mohd Habib Bowani, Eng Syed M Hussein, Dr Inam Hussein St Jospeh hospital, Ikram Hussein, Dr. Ahmed Fareed, Eng Yusufuddin Owaise, Dr Abidullah Ghazi IQRA.