HATFIELD TWP., Pa. (WPVI) — The Hatfield police chief is defending a Facebook post wishing the Muslim community a happy Ramadan after some commenters criticized the message, saying he did not expect a celebratory greeting to spark controversy.
Chief William Tierney said his intention was simply to extend well wishes.
“There’s never really been any thought about any religious value or anything to it, we just wish all the people that we can well,” Tierney said.
On Wednesday, which marked the beginning of Ramadan, Tierney wrote on the department’s Facebook page: “The Hatfield Police Department extends warm wishes to all members of our community who observe this sacred time.”
He directly referenced the Islamic holiday and wished observers a safe and blessed holy month.
Tierney, who said he is Catholic, noted that Ash Wednesday is a somber holiday and said a celebratory post would not be appropriate.
“Never happened before, I just started seeing comments about other holidays, why didn’t we wish people well on this, why didn’t we wish people well on that,” he said.
Under the post, which drew hundreds of interactions, some commenters questioned why there was not a similar “Happy Ash Wednesday” message to Christians.
Others expressed frustration over acknowledging the Muslim community.
“It kinda became obvious that these comments were geared towards the Muslim community and not anyone else,” Tierney said.
In response, Tierney published a second, lengthier post addressing what he described as hateful comments. In it, he wrote, “You are mad we wished people happiness who you don’t particularly care for.”
“We’re the face of the community, so for someone who is a public figure to take a stand and let people know the police are with you, the community is with you, I think, is very important,” Tierney said.
Some residents voiced support for the chief’s message and his response.
“I don’t see why he would be getting any hateful messages and I’m glad he spoke up about that,” said Erik Pitkapaasi of Lansdale.
Others said recognizing different faiths reflects the area’s growing diversity.
“Why shouldn’t they be able to say happy Ramadan, happy Easter, happy Christmas, they just like us,” said Imim of West Philadelphia.
“It’s getting more diverse over here, and it’s a good thing. It’s a good thing for the community, it’s a good thing for the country,” Pitkapaasi added.
Tierney said the reaction to his second post gave him optimism.
“Gave me some hope that maybe some good is coming around the corner,” he said.
The chief also said the messages felt especially meaningful because the department’s new station is located next to a mosque. He apologized to anyone whose “happy day” he may have missed. Additionally, he welcomes open conversation, encouraging anyone with concerns to contact him directly.
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