Following Paris attacks, NYC steps up outreach to Muslims

In the aftermath of last month’s terror attacks in Paris, New York City officials have bolstered security and quietly stepped up outreach efforts to Muslim residents, trying to calm fears of possible hate-filled retaliation while trying to extend government services to a community that often has felt neglected. The city has increased its presence in Muslim neighborhoods, sending staffers to visit mosques and build better relationships with imams and worshippers. Police officials have briefed community leaders on new counterterrorism procedures. Other city officials have urged Muslims to report any hate crimes, the number of which, despite terror-filled headlines and the inflammatory rhetoric of some national politicians, is sharply lower in New York in 2015 than at this time a year ago.