Community shows support for Muslims after pig-leg vandalism at proposed Ontario mosque site

ONTARIO, Calif. (KABC) -- Supporters of various faiths turned out Monday to the site of a planned Islamic mosque in Ontario in a show of solidarity.

Everyone gathered to share a meal at sundown as Muslims observe the holy month of Ramadan.

Last week, vandals were seen hurling pig legs on the property on Phillips Boulevard. Muslims consider pigs unclean and the timing for the attack during this holy month is especially offensive. Those at Monday's event said the attack achieved the opposite of what vandals intended.

"When other members of the community hear of the stresses being put on the Muslim community, we need to come out and be a presence with them and make them know that they are welcome, that they're an important part of our lives as a society," said Michael Witmer with Interfaith Witnesses.

Local Muslim community leaders are asking the U.S. Justice Department for a hate crime investigation.

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