MINNEAPOLIS — Federal, state and local law enforcement officials in Minnesota met with more than three dozen local Muslims to let them know that authorities are here to protect them, and community members should report incidents of hate crimes.

Thursday’s meeting was held in response to this week’s deadly attacks in Brussels. Several community members told authorities that after high-profile events like that, they feel scared.

U.S. Attorney Andy Luger told the group that law enforcement’s job is to keep everyone safe, including Muslims.

FBI Special Agent in Charge Rick Thornton says the community needs to know that Minnesota authorities will aggressively deal with acts of violence targeting Muslims.

Community member Aman Obsiye said: “the atmosphere in America today is very fearful to me.” Others thanked authorities for reaching out.