Zuckerberg voices support for Muslim Facebook users

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg reassures Muslim Facebook users that they are “always welcome” on the popular social media platform.

Zuckerberg shared a short post on Facebook Wednesday, saying he would fight to protect the rights of Muslim users on the site and create a safe environment for them, reports CNN.

"As a Jew, my parents taught me that we must stand up against attacks on all communities. Even if an attack isn't against you today, in time attacks on freedom for anyone will hurt everyone," said Zuckerberg in a post that went up Wednesday.

The social network has a large and fast growing number of Muslim users around the world. More than a billion people checked the site every day in September, and 83.5% of them are outside of the United States and Canada, reports CNN.

It is also a popular medium for posting hateful rhetoric and anti-Muslim sentiments.

Comments on Zuckerberg's post ranged from gracious support to angry rants against Muslims. Some commenters said they did not feel Facebook was as supportive of Muslims as Zuckerberg claimed.

"I, personally, have flagged multiple violent, hateful and downright scary comments and posts made by FB users to no avail. I always get a message saying that FB has reviewed the post and found it to be ok," commented Shaunna Imam.

According to CNN, Zuckerberg's post adheres to the overall message of inclusion Facebook (FB, Tech30) has pushed publicly in recent years, by declaring support for LGBT issues, extending parental leave, and increasing diversity in tech.