Brenda LaGrange Johnson, Contributor

The fifth anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, is a reminder of the inhumanity of terrorist mass murderers. The victims of that day were adherents of many faiths, including Christianity, Judaism and Islam. They were citizens of more than 90 different countries, including Jamaica. Their loss affects us all. It is also a reminder of the challenge we share as an international community, to confront an ideology that promotes hate, destruction and death.

Terrorists, such as those who were responsible for September 11, and those behind the most recent mass murder plot involving aeroplanes in London, have long targeted innocent people. They have repeatedly shown their contempt for human life, regardless of race, ethnicity or religion. They have brought destruction and tragedy to people across the world, from Indonesia to Morocco, Spain, Jordan, England, India and Egypt. Thousands of people of many nations, religions, races and beliefs have been murdered as a result.

Taliban-like regime

The terrorist agenda is to impose a Taliban-like regime on the nations of the world, and they have nothing but intolerance for all those who do not share their extremist beliefs - including fellow Muslims. We saw what that type of society did in Afghanistan, where mass executions were held in soccer stadiums, where little girls were denied education and women the ability to support their families, and where music was banned, and cultural and historical icons were destroyed.

The fight against terrorism is a concerted fight for values and principles that are universal. Much more unites us as citizens of the world than divides us. Across all borders, we share a common humanity. While the colour of our skin, the language we use, or the way we worship may be different, people everywhere aspire to speak their minds, participate in their society, worship freely, live in security, and pursue education, jobs and greater opportunities for their families.

The ideology of the violent extremists uses a perverted religiosity in a vain attempt to justify murder, terror, and violence. All major religions, including Islam, Christianity and Judaism, share a commitment to social justice, concern for the poor, and love of family and community. All these faiths teach that life is precious, and that killing oneself and murdering innocent people is always wrong.

Speak out against hate

The international community, the interfaith community and decent men and women everywhere must speak out against those who advocate hate, violence and terrorism. We must foster debate, encourage education and provide information. We believe most people everywhere, of every faith, will choose freedom over tyranny and tolerance over persecution. We call on leaders of all faiths to work for mutual respect and understanding.

There is hope. The global community has come together in unprecedented ways to confront common threats and ease human suffering. America is helping, working in partnership with countries throughout the Islamic world to improve the lives of its people. America is the largest bilateral donor of aid to the Palestinian people. Americans were the largest providers of aid to those affected by the tsunami in Indonesia and the earthquake in Pakistan. We provide funds for Muslim children to go to school and for job training for Muslim youth. In Afghanistan and Iraq, we are working in partnership with democratically elected Muslim leaders to provide freedom and security for populations brutally repressed under the Taliban and Saddam Hussein.

As we look back on September 11, 2001, we also look forward. We seek to work in a spirit of partnership with people and nations across the world to confront this ideology of hate and foster a climate of hope and opportunity. We are far from perfect, yet we believe the ideals of freedom and justice by which we attempt to live are worth defending. We want to work in partnership with nations across the globe for a more peaceful and prosperous world, and a better life for people everywhere.

Brenda LaGrange Johnson is the Ambassador of the United States to Jamaica.