More than 100 people came to support Pakistani teenager Malala Yousufzai, 14, who is in critical condition after being shot in the head by the Taliban on Oct. 9.

Yousufzai's pursuit of education and equality made her the scourge of a terrorist organization, which has vowed to attack her again if she survives. She began writing a diary about her experiences at the age of 11, and the BBC has publicized her work. The girl is viewed as having the potential to be a future leader of the nation.

She was returning home on a school bus in her hometown of Mingora, Pakistan, when the attempted homicide took place.

Wednesday's vigil was as much about wishing her a speedy and thorough recovery as it was taking a stand against intolerance and injustice, organizers said.

"This young girl has dreams and aspirations to make the world a better place," Islam said. "She was a public advocate for education. You could see the leader in her, and the Taliban attacked her out of fear."

The Taliban's intention of silencing critics and striking terror in those who oppose them is similar to the tactics of local street gangs, said Zaki Syed, who is studying sociology at California State University, Sacramento.

"They both cause fear in people's hearts," Syed said. "People are afraid to speak out against them."

Participants also expressed disgust at the Taliban's belief it represents the tenets of Islam.

"The Taliban tries to use religion to justify itself. Islam is about education," said Saeeda Islam, a member of a civil liberties group, the Council on American-Islamic Relations. "It is unfortunate that they associate themselves with us."

Saeeda Islam has roots in Pakistan and has visited the country. She said people are genuinely suffering from the oppression of the radical organization.

"People can't live to their full potential," she said. "Women are facing boundaries throughout the world, but the Taliban mutes (women) there."

Although the audience prayed for Yousufzai's recovery, Shabbir Khan said she would not die in vain if the attack ultimately claimed her life.

"Another will rise," he said.

Syed punctuated the evening by reciting rhymes he penned to honor Yousufzai. He urged the American people to rally around the teenager and press their government into action.

Drone strikes embolden the enemy, he said, and the battle can be won through education.