Muslims associated with the New York Chapter of the Council on American Islamic Relations and the local Islamic Leadership Council came to express their grievances and to speak of social justice.

"We as Muslim New Yorkers are here today because we are in solidarity and support of Occupy Wall Street," said Linda Sarsour, director of the Arab-American Association.

Imam Aiyub Abdul Baki of the Islamic Leadership Council delivered a sermon on social justice based on the Last Sermon of the Prophet Muhammad.  In a veiled reference to Wall Street bankers, the Imam mentioned the Prophet's commandment against usury.  He also noted US constitutional protections of religious expression, alleging that Muslim-Americans do not fully enjoy that right.

"We are also suffering; suffering racism and discrimination.  Islam-bashing is on the increase," Baki said.

VOA