New York, NY.-  On January 17, 2012, Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui reflected on her sister Aafia as an example and a symbol of a new era of injustice within the United States.  Speaking before members of the Workers of Aafia movement, who had gathered at the Karachi press-club, she said:

“Today is Martin Luther King day, celebrated throughout the United States of America.  Dr. King was assassinated 48 years ago because he had a dream. Aafia was sentenced to 86 years because she had a dream: a dream for an educated Pakistan that would enlighten the Pakistani Nation and free its youth from foreign dependency and economic shambles.

Dr. King had a dream that there will be no racial discrimination and children will be judged not by the color of their skin but the character within. He wanted an end to war, wanted equal opportunities for all races, religions, and creeds.  Today his dream made it possible for President  Obama to be elected President, only to set aflame another series of hate and discrimination: this time it is against Islam. Once again, those who want peace are being persecuted and politically assassinated--shattering the very dream that made America a great nation.  

Dr. Aafia’s 86-year sentence is a glaring example, then there is Guantánamo Bay, Bagram, and new atrocities being unveiled on a daily basis. Today, as a great leader who sacrificed his life is remembered, the current scenario is mourned, the land of the free and of equality for all is once again being tarnished with falsely imposed fear and prejudice, this time against Muslims.  May God guide us and help save both Nations from drowning in this sea of fear. Dr. King said: ‘It is our moral duty to stand up against unjust laws and injustice because they are morally wrong.’  Let us raise (a voice) for Aafia and others .”