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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CAIR: Georgia Mosque Targeted by Hate Vandalism
Rock painted with 'Muslim murderers' damages Muslim house of worship

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 4/19/11) -- A prominent national Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization today called on state and federal law enforcement authorities to investigate two apparently bias-motivated attacks on a Georgia mosque as hate crimes.

The Washington-based Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) says vandals twice this month shattered doors and windows of the Islamic Center of Cartersville with rocks, one of which was reportedly painted with "Muslim murderers." Local police are investigating the incidents and the FBI has been "asked to determine if the attacks fall under federal hate crime laws."

VIDEO: Vandals Target Mosque With Painted Rocks

"The hate message on a rock used to damage this mosque is a clear indication of a bias motive," said CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper. "State law enforcement authorities and the FBI should take whatever actions are necessary to protect the congregation's right to worship without fear of attack."

He noted that CAIR last week called on law enforcement authorities to investigate a "terrorist threat" and desecrated religious texts that were used to target a Missouri mosque. Earlier this year, hate graffiti was written on outer walls of the same mosque. The graffiti included obscenities, a Star of David and the words, "You bash us in Pakistan, we bash you here."

SEE: Islamic Center Reports Threat
CAIR: Missouri Mosque Vandalized with Hate Graffiti

Hooper said that based on this and previous bias-motivated incidents targeting mosques, and on the rise in anti-Islam hate generated by a nationwide "anti-Sharia" campaign instate legislatures, American Muslim individuals and institutions are being urged to review advice on security procedures contained in CAIR's "Muslim Community Safety Kit."

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CAIR is America's largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.

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