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PATERSON—U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-08) today praised the decision made by Judge Alberto Riefkohl to allow Imam Mohammad Qatanani to remain in the United States:
“I was elated to learn that justice prevailed in the dubious effort to deport Imam Qatanani. The Imam is a man of moderation and peace who has proven himself time and again as a pillar of goodwill in the Paterson community. He has raised a beautiful family, with strong American values, that I am pleased will now become eligible for permanent legal citizenship. I prayed with the Imam for this outcome and believe that this decision can strengthen relations between Muslims and non-Muslim Americans. During this Ramadan season we should take comfort in knowing that the Imam and his family will be here to stay.
“The deportation of Imam Qatanani would have been a miscarriage of justice and a setback for relations between government and the Muslim American community. Today’s verdict is more than just a victory for one man or one community; it is a victory for Passaic County and all of America.”
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