(WXZY) — Following the massacre in New Zealand, local mosques had a police presence on Friday as an extra layer of security and a way to help ease fears.
Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi of the Islamic House of Wisdom said, "We appreciate the police departments both in Dearborn and Dearborn Heights. That was their own initiative without us asking. They are going around the mosque and making sure things are safe and secure."
Kathleen Kalil says some people she knows were afraid of going to pray today, but she felt like it was important to show solidarity and be there.
"I did feel a little apprehension, but I don't allow that to effect my behavior," she said.
She did feel better seeing police outside. Police were also outside the Islamic Center of America.
"We're doing our best to create a certain amount of comfort. Our vigilance has to be greater in these times," says Elahi.
He says many people of all faiths have reached out to them to offer condolences and to see if there's anything they can do to help the Muslim community.
