BREAKING: Vandals Bust Windows at Iowa Mosque
Group Echoes CAIR-MN's Call for Hate Crime Probe
A Minneapolis-based Somali advocacy group has added to the calls for a federal investigation into vandalism reported Thursday. . .
CAIR-NY: Muslims Seek to Add Holidays on NY School Calendar

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CAIR Seeks Applicants for Rosa Parks Civil Liberties Scholarship
Award to be presented Oct. 9 at 16th annual CAIR banquet in Arlington, Va.

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 7/13/2010) -- The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is seeking applicants for its annual scholarship honoring the life and work of civil rights pioneer Rosa Parks.

This year's awardee of the annual $1,000 "Rosa Parks Civil Liberties Scholarship" will be announced at CAIR's 16th annual banquet on Saturday, October 9 in Arlington, Va. A day-long leadership skills training conference is scheduled to precede the banquet on Saturday.

The application deadline for the scholarship is September 17, 2010. To obtain an application form, e-mail: banquet@cair.com

Applicants must be enrolled in, or accepted by, a full-time undergraduate, graduate or professional program of an accredited college or university in the United States majoring in a field that promotes civil rights, social justice or the peaceful resolution of conflicts. They must have a grade point average of 3.0 or above for undergraduate students or 3.5 or above for graduate students.

The applicants must also have a demonstrated interest in civil liberties issues. Preference will be given to applicants with past employment or volunteer experiences indicating such interest.

All applicants must submit two letters of recommendation and an essay demonstrating knowledge of the civil rights movement and how it relates to the American Muslim experience.

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.

Minn. Somali-Owned Market Vandalized with Hate Graffiti
Lori Saroya, president of CAIR-MN, a Muslim civil rights organization, said she is asking authorities to treat the incident as a hate crime because of other incidents in St. Cloud.
CAIR Video: Islamophobia - A Growing Problem

CAIR Action Alert #612

Advisory: U.S. Muslim Travelers Warned of 'Forced Exile'
American Muslims face denial of due process, pressure to become informants

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 7/9/10) -- CAIR today issued an advisory to American Muslims -- whether citizens, permanent residents or visa holders -- warning of the risk of "forced exile" when traveling overseas or attempting to return to the United States. Muslim travelers are urged to know their legal rights if they are placed on the so-called "no-fly list."

In the past few months, CAIR has received a number of reports of American Muslims stranded overseas when they are placed on the government's no-fly list. Those barred from returning to the United States report being denied proper legal representation, being subjected to FBI pressure tactics to give up the constitutionally-guaranteed right to remain silent, having their passports confiscated without due process, and being pressured to become informants for the FBI. These individuals have not been told why they were placed on the no-fly list or how to remove their names from the list.

SEE: Cases of American Muslims Barred from U.S. (CAIR)
American Man in Limbo on No-Fly List (NY Times)
U.S. Muslims Facing Problems in Return from Abroad (Wash. Post)

FBI agents have reportedly told a number of individuals that they face being stranded outside the United States longer, or forever, unless they give up their rights to legal representation or to refuse interrogations and polygraph tests. But even those who submitted to interrogations without an attorney or to the "lie detector" tests remain stranded.

CAIR cooperated with the ACLU on its recently-filed lawsuit challenging the lack of due process in placing travelers on the no-fly list.

SEE: ACLU Files Lawsuit Challenging Unconstitutional 'No Fly List'

"We ask President Obama to review this disturbing new policy that denies American Muslims their constitutional rights and due process of law," said CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad.

He said American Muslims strongly support law enforcement and the protection of our national security. And as Americans, we also value the civil rights of every individual. All Americans have the constitutional right to due process and to re-enter their own country.

If you know of any criminal activity, it is both your religious and civic duty to immediately report such activity to local and federal law enforcement agencies.

Know Your Rights if Placed on the No-Fly List:

[IMPORTANT NOTE: Before traveling overseas, obtain the cell phone number of an attorney who would be available for consultation if you are barred from returning to the United States. Finding an attorney once you have been stopped or detained is much more difficult. Provide the attorney's contact information to those scheduled to pick you up at the airport.]

1) Understand that agreeing to an interview with FBI agents is strictly voluntary. You are not obligated under law to answer any questions from law enforcement officers. You must however provide them with a passport or other official identification.

2) You may choose to have an attorney accompany or represent you for any interview or questioning. CAIR strongly recommends that you consult with an attorney before being interviewed by law enforcement agents. CAIR may provide legal assistance or can refer you to an attorney.

3) Stay calm. Do not get into an argument with law enforcement officers.

4) Note that anything you say to an agent or officer can be used against you in a court of law, and that lying to an agent or officer is a criminal offense. Also note that an FBI agent is permitted to lie to you in the course of an interrogation.

5) Should you decide to speak to agents without an attorney despite the risks, note that you may set the conditions of the interview, including choosing when and where the interview is to take place, whether a third party such as a family member is present, which questions to answer, and refusing to sign any documents. You may cancel the interview at any time. Take detailed notes during any interview.

6) Be sure to get the names, agencies, badge numbers and business cards of ALL agents or officers. Similarly, make a note of the name, agency, contact information, and supervisor of any other government employees, including embassy staff.

7) Contact your attorney and CAIR to report the incident and to discuss your next legal steps. If you believe that your civil rights have been or are being violated, you may file a complaint with the Department of Justice Civil RightsDivision and with the Department of State. CAIR can help you with this process.

8) To file a civil rights complaint with CAIR, please visit:http://www.cair.com/FileaComplaint.aspx

9) If you have Internet access, file a complaint with DHS TRIP (Traveler Redress Inquiry Program) by going to: www.dhs.gov/trip

10) Have your spouse or other family members contact your elected representatives to seek assistance.

MORE RESOURCES:

"FBI Interview: Knowing the Law Can Protect You," by Ahilan Arulanantham and Ranjana Natarajan. InFocus News, February 2007.

Video: "Got Rights: Protect Yourself and Your Family at Home and at the Airport,” by Muslim Advocates.

[Please note: The points outlined above are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Should you have any questions about this material or about a specific case, please consult with an attorney.]

Minn. Somali-Owned Market Vandalized with Hate Graffiti
Lori Saroya, president of CAIR-MN, a Muslim civil rights organization, said she is asking authorities to treat the incident as a hate crime because of other incidents in St. Cloud.
CAIR Video: Islamophobia - A Growing Problem
CAIR Action Alert #612
Advisory: U.S. Muslim Travelers Warned of 'Forced Exile'
American Muslims face denial of due process, pressure to become informants
(WASHINGTON, D.C., 7/9/10) -- CAIR today issued an advisory to American Muslims -- whether citizens, permanent residents or visa holders -- warning of the risk of "forced exile" when traveling overseas or attempting to return to the United States. Muslim travelers are urged to know their legal rights if they are placed on the so-called "no-fly list."
In the past few months, CAIR has received a number of reports of American Muslims stranded overseas when they are placed on the government's no-fly list. Those barred from returning to the United States report being denied proper legal representation, being subjected to FBI pressure tactics to give up the constitutionally-guaranteed right to remain silent, having their passports confiscated without due process, and being pressured to become informants for the FBI. These individuals have not been told why they were placed on the no-fly list or how to remove their names from the list.
SEE: Cases of American Muslims Barred from U.S. (CAIR)
American Man in Limbo on No-Fly List (NY Times)
U.S. Muslims Facing Problems in Return from Abroad (Wash. Post)
FBI agents have reportedly told a number of individuals that they face being stranded outside the United States longer, or forever, unless they give up their rights to legal representation or to refuse interrogations and polygraph tests. But even those who submitted to interrogations without an attorney or to the "lie detector" tests remain stranded.
CAIR cooperated with the ACLU on its recently-filed lawsuit challenging the lack of due process in placing travelers on the no-fly list.
SEE: ACLU Files Lawsuit Challenging Unconstitutional 'No Fly List'
"We ask President Obama to review this disturbing new policy that denies American Muslims their constitutional rights and due process of law," said CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad.
He said American Muslims strongly support law enforcement and the protection of our national security. And as Americans, we also value the civil rights of every individual. All Americans have the constitutional right to due process and to re-enter their own country.
If you know of any criminal activity, it is both your religious and civic duty to immediately report such activity to local and federal law enforcement agencies.
Know Your Rights if Placed on the No-Fly List:
[IMPORTANT NOTE: Before traveling overseas, obtain the cell phone number of an attorney who would be available for consultation if you are barred from returning to the United States. Finding an attorney once you have been stopped or detained is much more difficult. Provide the attorney's contact information to those scheduled to pick you up at the airport.]
1) Understand that agreeing to an interview with FBI agents is strictly voluntary. You are not obligated under law to answer any questions from law enforcement officers. You must however provide them with a passport or other official identification.
2) You may choose to have an attorney accompany or represent you for any interview or questioning. CAIR strongly recommends that you consult with an attorney before being interviewed by law enforcement agents. CAIR may provide legal assistance or can refer you to an attorney.
3) Stay calm. Do not get into an argument with law enforcement officers.
4) Note that anything you say to an agent or officer can be used against you in a court of law, and that lying to an agent or officer is a criminal offense. Also note that an FBI agent is permitted to lie to you in the course of an interrogation.
5) Should you decide to speak to agents without an attorney despite the risks, note that you may set the conditions of the interview, including choosing when and where the interview is to take place, whether a third party such as a family member is present, which questions to answer, and refusing to sign any documents. You may cancel the interview at any time. Take detailed notes during any interview.
6) Be sure to get the names, agencies, badge numbers and business cards of ALL agents or officers. Similarly, make a note of the name, agency, contact information, and supervisor of any other government employees, including embassy staff.
7) Contact your attorney and CAIR to report the incident and to discuss your next legal steps. If you believe that your civil rights have been or are being violated, you may file a complaint with the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division and with the Department of State. CAIR can help you with this process.
8) To file a civil rights complaint with CAIR, please visit: http://www.cair.com/FileaComplaint.aspx
9) If you have Internet access, file a complaint with DHS TRIP (Traveler Redress Inquiry Program) by going to: www.dhs.gov/trip
10) Have your spouse or other family members contact your elected representatives to seek assistance.
MORE RESOURCES:
"FBI Interview: Knowing the Law Can Protect You," by Ahilan Arulanantham and Ranjana Natarajan. InFocus News, February 2007.
Video: "Got Rights: Protect Yourself and Your Family at Home and at the Airport,” by Muslim Advocates.
[Please note: The points outlined above are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Should you have any questions about this material or about a specific case, please consult with an attorney.]

CAIR-LA: ANOTHER U.S. MOSQUE FACES OPPOSITION - TOP
By Jeff Horseman, The Press-Enterprise, 7/11/10
Heated debate over the nature of Islam is overshadowing plans to build a mosque in northeast Temecula.
Critics, including the pastor of a church next to the mosque site, say the worship center is a bad fit for the area. They're also concerned with what they describe as Islam's extreme agenda of expansion.
The Islamic Center of Temecula Valley's imam, or prayer leader, said his group is peaceful and only seeks more room to serve its members. And the civil rights manager for a Muslim-American advocacy group said the mosque's critics are ignorant, if not bigoted . . .
"When churches decide to expand or build facilities, what's the purpose behind that?" asked Affad Sheikh, civil rights manager with the Greater Los Angeles Area chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. "Why is this question being asked of the Muslim community?" (More)
SEE ALSO:
NY MOSQUE OPPOSITION CONTINUES - TOP
By Casey Seiler, Times Union, 7/11/10
. . . In a letter to his Democratic opponent, Lazio said that the people of New York need more answers about where the $100 million for the project was coming from, and noted that Rauf had passed up an opportunity to denounce the Palestinian group Hamas as a terrorist organization. Lazio also alluded to Rauf's involvement with the Perdana Global Peace Organization, a primary donor to the Free Gaza Movement, which has attempted to provide humanitarian aid to Palestinians in violation of Israel's naval blockade.
Do any of the above constitute probable cause for an investigation? Only if you think the development of a mosque deserves greater law enforcement scrutiny than the construction of a church or synagogue, or if you think people who utilize their First Amendment rights should be barred from building things in Lower Manhattan. (More)
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GROUP PLANS TO COUNTER PROTEST IN SUPPORT OF 'RELIGIOUS FREEDOM' - TOP
The Daily News Journal, 7/10/10
A group formed in support of the rights of the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro will rally on the Public Square as a way to counter a protest march against the center on Wednesday.
Middle Tennesseans for Religious Freedom is organizing the event in response to local resident Kevin Fisher's plans to lead a march on Main Street to the County Courthouse (More)
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CAIR VIDEO: U.S. MUSLIM TRAVELERS WARNED OF 'FORCED EXILE'? - TOP
By Rhonda Pence, Press TV, 7/10/10
The Council on American-Islamic Relations issued a travel advisory Friday warning American Muslims of the risk of "forced exile" when traveling overseas or attempting to return to the United States. (More)
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CHRISTIAN MISSIONARIES ARRAIGNED - TOP
4 Missionaries Arrested For Handing Out Literature
WDIV, 7/12/10
DEARBORN, Mich. -- Four Christian missionaries who were arrested at Dearborn's Arab American Festival were arraigned Monday on misdemeanor charges of disturbing the peace.
Charged were Negeen Mayel, Dr. Nabeel Qureshi, Paul Rezkalla and David Wood Mayel, all members of a group called "Acts 17 Apologetics."
Negeen Mayel faces an additional charge of disobeying an officer.
They all pleaded not guilty.
The four were arrested on June 18 while handing out Christian literature and videotaping themselves.
The group said they were arrested over religion, but police insist that it's not true, and continue to stand behind their arrest. Dearborn Mayor Jack O'Reilly defends his police department's arrest, saying he saw the video police confiscated from them and he believes the missionaries came into town to cause trouble.
Reilly said the video shows the group's ulterior motive, which was to seek out Arabs in the crowd and try to rile them up by preaching to them.
"They look for a mark. They look for someone they know is going to be agitated with, for someone who is going to be engaged in a very heated way, and use that to draw a crowd," said Reilly.
Reilly said they use the videotape of the angry Arabs to solicit donations from other Christians to fund their missionary operation around the country. . .
Michigan chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations said the four were not arrested for religious reasons, but because they did not follow the festival's rules, which were that religious groups could only hand out material in designated areas after paying for booth space. (More)
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CAIR-OH: FORUM HOPES TO CHALLENGE MISCONCEPTIONS IN AMERICAN-ISLAMIC RELATIONS - TOP
By Megan Milstead and Megan Weiland, Miami Student, 7/11/10
Hoping to connect Cincinnati to Israel and Detroit to Saudi Arabia, the "Middle East in the Midwest" forum Thursday brought race, religion and politics together in one room . . .
"There are many ways people can feel connected to a place that is millions of miles away," said Mark Peterson, assistant professor of anthropology and organizer of the speakers for the event . . .
Peterson said the media helps create those certain stereotypes.
"When the term Arab or Muslim is used, people have a very narrow range of what this means based on a handful of images repeated over and over again in the media," he said. "One thing I hope from this year is to broaden the kind of things our students recognize as being about the Middle East” . . .
The forum continued with peace activist and chair of the Cincinnati Committee of the Council of American-Islamic Relations for Ohio, Zeinab Schwen, speaking on "American Muslims Under Fire" and Father Marcos Ghali on Ohio's Coptic Community.
"Student involvement and education is crucial for faculty and country changes," Ghali said about the stereotypes often tacked on to people of Middle Eastern descent.
Stanley Toops, chair of the Middle East and Islamic studies program, reiterated that the Midwest is an important focus because of the growth of people with Middle Eastern descent in the area.
"I think that people will get a broader idea of the situation in specifically the Midwest," Toops said. "It could be people whose ancestors were from (the Middle East). There are quite a few Arabs in the Ohio/Michigan area and it's just a product of the immigration that has taken place. There are more people with that Arab heritage in the Midwest." (More)
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CAIR-CHICAGO: OAK BROOK HOTEL BACKS OUT ON MUSLIM GROUP'S CONFERENCE - TOP
By Manya A. Brachear, Chicago Tribune, 7/10/10
The controversial American arm of an international Islamic group has been bounced from the Marriott in Oak Brook, where organizers were set to host the group's second annual conference this Sunday.
Organizers of Hizb ut-Tahrir, Muslim activists who publicly advocate peaceful government reform, hope to find another venue for their meeting before the end of July.
Critics believe the conference, dedicated to reviving the prevailing system of rule that immediately followed the death of the Prophet Muhammad, is an effort to turn American Muslims against the U.S. government . . .
Mohamad Nasir, executive director of the Council for Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago, said the group's audience pales compared with other Muslim organizations that traditionally meet in Chicago. Last year's Hizb ut-Tahrir gathering drew about 900 participants. On July 4 weekend, the Islamic Society of North America drew about 30,000 participants.
Ahmed Rehab, executive director of the Council for American-Islamic Relations, said he doesn't agree with the principles of Hizb ut-Tahrir, but believes the group is entitled to freedom of speech and assembly like any other group in the U.S.
"They are a minority group among Muslims and their ideology is considered sensational by mainstream communities," Rehab said. "Despite their best efforts, they are neither persuasive nor effective." (More)
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CAIR-MN VIDEO: ST. CLOUD GRAFFITI MAY BE INVESTIGATED AS HATE CRIME - TOP
St. Cloud Times, 7/9/10
Early Thursday morning Hared Jabril arrived to open up his market in St. Cloud and discovered his business had been vandalized.
In bright red graffiti the words "Go Home" had been painted on the windows of Hormud Meat and Grocery.
"I don't know why," Jabril said Friday morning.
While Jabril was born and raised in Nairobi, he immigrated to the U.S. in 2001 and says has been a proud citizen of this country and St. Cloud ever since.
"Go home; this is my home," Jabril said. Thankfully, Jabril says he can laugh it off but it is most certainly not funny. Especially, since it happened in St. Cloud. A city that has over the years, been the stage for similar events.
"That it keeps happening is putting people on edge," Council on American-Islamic relations president Lori Saroya said Friday. (More)
SEE ALSO:
VIDEO: CAIR-TAMPA AT THE 2010 TEMPLE TERRACE 4TH OF JULY PARADE - TOP
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWefhLCjhZs
American Muslims from all over the greater Tampa Bay area participated in the 2010 Temple Terrace 4th of July parade. The theme of this year's float was "Many Faces, One Nation."
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MUSLIM WOMAN SUES SOMERSET MEDICAL CENTER FOR RELIGIOUS DISCRIMINATION - TOP
By Jennifer Golson, The Star-Ledger, 7/11/10
Rona Mohammedi went to Somerset Medical Center the night of Feb. 11 with severe chest pains. After hearing she would need an electrocardiogram, she asked for a female to conduct the test.
A Muslim, Mohammedi wears traditional garb, including the hijab, or head scarf. The Basking Ridge woman believes it is her religious duty to maintain modesty before strange men, and an EKG calls for wires to be applied to the chest, shoulders and wrists.
Instead of heeding her request, officials let her languish in the emergency room for five hours until 3:10 a.m., when her husband sought a transfer. She is suing the hospital for discrimination and violating the Patient Bill of Rights.
The complaint filed May 14 in Superior Court in Somerville raises the question of how far hospitals must go for religious accommodations. The rights listed in state statutes say patients can expect treatment without discrimination, and respectful care consistent with sound medical practices.
Mohammedi's lawyer, Tariq Hussain, said the hospital failed those basic tenets.
"According to the patients' bill of rights that exist in New Jersey, hospitals are required to make reasonable accommodations for patients for various reasons," he said. "Patients should not be denied service or discriminated against based on religion." (More)

CAIR: FBI Asked to Probe Arson at Georgia Mosque

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 7/6/10) -- The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today called on the FBI to investigate a possible bias motive for a fire at a Georgia mosque that officials say "appears" to be intentionally set.

CAIR reported that the fire broke out late Monday at the Islamic Center of Marietta (Masjid Al-Hedaya) and resulted in severe damage to the facility. Evidence of forcible entry and vandalism were discovered at the site. Local authorities are investigating the blaze as a possible hate crime.

SEE: Marietta Mosque Damaged, Arson Suspected (AJC)
Official: Mosque Fire was Arson

"Given the recent wave of incidents targeting American mosques, a possible bias motive for this apparent arson attack must be considered," said CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper. "Unfortunately, there is a vocal minority in our society promoting anti-Muslim bigotry, and that minority is experiencing little or no pushback from mainstream religious and political leaders."

He said other recent Islamophobic incidents include a hate rally yesterday against a Florida mosque and a planned protest against the expansion of an Islamic center in Tennessee.

SEE: Anti-Islam Demonstration in Florida (Video)
Opponents Plan March Against Murfreesboro Mosque

Hooper noted that CAIR recently called on the FBI to investigate a threat made to bomb a proposed mosque in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn.

SEE: Mosque 'Bomber,' Under Investigation by Cops, Changes Story

Mosques in New York also faced hate rhetoric by opponents, as did several others in Tennessee. A mosque in Jacksonville, Fla., was recently the target of a bomb attack. A Houston radio host made a controversial on-air call for the bombing of a proposed mosque and community center in New York City.

SEE: Muslims in USA Face Fears, Bias to Build, Expand Mosques
CAIR Video: Hate Groups Promoting Islamophobia in America
Fla. Mosque Attack Called Terrorism
CAIR Video: Texas Talk Show Host Under Fire for Mosque Bomb Remark

The Washington-based Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization is urging American Muslim individuals and institutions to review advice on security procedures contained in its "Muslim Community Safety Kit."

CAIR is America's largest Muslim civil liberties group. 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.

CAIR-NY VIDEO: GROUP PUSHES FOR MUSLIM SCHOOL HOLIDAYS - TOP
NY 1 News, 6/30/10

A group of Muslim parents and their supporters gathered on the steps of City Hall today where they called on Mayor Michael Bloomberg to recognize Islamic holidays on the school calendar.

The coalition of religious, immigrant and labor groups is asking the mayor to honor a City Council resolution calling for two Muslim holy days -- Eid-ul Adha and Eid-ul Fitr -- to be added to the school calendar. (More)

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CAIR-NY: MUSLIM HOLIDAY EID PROPOSED AS DAY OFF FROM SCHOOL (VIDEO) - TOP
ABC 7, 6/30/10

Muslims from New York gather on the Steps of City Hall where they called on Mayor Michael Bloomberg to recognize Islamic holidays on the school calendar. (More)

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CAIR-NY: NYC MUSLIMS PUSH FOR SCHOOL HOLIDAYS - TOP
Donna Beck, WPIX.com, 6/30/2010

. . . PIX 11 News contacted Faiza Ali, CAIR-NY Community Affairs Director and Steering Committee Member of the Coalition for Muslim School Holidays.

"This is important for the Muslim students because currently they are forced to choose between going to school or observing one of the holiest holidays in their religion. So, it puts an unfair burden on Muslim children," said Ali.

The current school calendar recognizes major Christian and Jewish holy days like Christmas and Yom Kippur, but no Muslim holy days.

"We are not trying to comprise the calendar, or make students go to school less. There is a way for the department of Education to adjust the calendar to accommodate the Muslim holidays," said Ali. (More)

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CAIR-MI REPS TESTIFY AT RACIAL PROFILING TOWN HALL WITH U.S. ATTORNEY - TOP

(SOUTHFIELD, MI, 7/1/10) – Representatives from the Michigan chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MI) yesterday gave oral testimony at a special town hall meeting on racial profiling with government officials and civil rights attorneys at the Wayne State University Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights in Detroit.

The town hall meeting, which was organized by the Rights Working Group and co-sponsored by CAIR-MI, had panelists taking testimony on racial and religious profiling from civil rights activists and community organizers. Panelists hearing testimony included U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan Barbara McQuade, Michigan State Representative Rashida Tlaib, Michigan Civil Rights Commissioner Nabih Ayad, and Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR) Executive Director Vincent Warren.

CAIR-MI Executive Director Dawud Walid and CAIR-MI Staff Attorney Lena Masri testified about growing constituent concerns regarding surveillance and misuse of confidential informants in mosques and religious profiling during re-entry into the United States. Walid elaborated on the chilling effect on Michigan Muslims to freely exercise their First Amendment rights to Freedom of Religion and Freedom of Assembly in light of last year's fatal shooting of Imam Luqman Ameen Abdullah in Dearborn by FBI agents based on a raid provoked by the use of confidential informants.

SEE: Conyers Demands Investigation into Detroit Imam's Death (Michigan Messenger)

CAIR-Cleveland Executive Director Julia Shearson was also in attendance and monitored testimony offered.

Other organizations who participated in the town hall included the American Civil Liberties Union - Michigan (ACLU-MI), Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (ACCESS), Detroit Coalition Against Police Brutality, and Mexican American Legal Defense & Educational Fund (MALDEF).

"We welcome such opportunities to engage high ranking Justice Department officials and civil rights advocates to ensure public safety within our communities without compromising the civil rights and dignity of vulnerable minority groups," said CAIR-MI Executive Director Dawud Walid.

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.

CONTACT: CAIR-MI Executive Director Dawud Walid, 248-559-2247, E-Mail: dwalid@cair.com; CAIR-MI Staff Attorney Lena Masri, 248-559-2247, E-Mail: lmasri@cair.com

SEE ALSO:

CAIR-SFBA DIRECTOR SPEAKS AT ASIAN-PACIFIC GROUP RECEPTION - TOP

(SAN FRANCISCO, CA, 7/1/10) – On Wednesday, June 23, the San Francisco Bay Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA) Programs and Outreach Director Zahra Billoo, spoke at the 20th Anniversary Reception of the Asian American Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy (AAPIP) at the Renwick Gallery, at the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

The event which was attended by more than 200 guests from various parts of the country included a private tour of the Art of Gaman: Arts and Crafts from the Japanese Internment Camps.

Billoo's remarks focused on the ongoing civil rights struggle of American Muslims, including allegations of FBI harassment and employment discrimination. She shared stories of actual complaints CAIR California offices had received over the last year. The discussion also shed light on the parallels between the World War II internment of Japanese Americans and the ongoing targeting of American Muslims.

"It was an honor to be able to join AAPOP in celebrating their support of targeted communities," Billoo said.

AAPIP, based in San Francisco CA, was founded in 1990 and is a national membership and philanthropic advocacy organization dedicated to advancing philanthropy and Asian American/Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. AAPIP has been supporting the work of Arab, Middle Eastern, Muslim and South Asian communities in the Bay Area through its Civic Engagement Fund since 2006.

CONTACT: CAIR-SFBA Programs and Outreach Director Zahra Billoo, 408.986.9874 or E-Mail at info@sfba.cair.com

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CAIR-OH: PROFILING ISLAM: FAITH UNDER SURVEILLANCE - TOP
The Lakewood Observer, 7/1/10

What does a terrorist look like? Unfortunately, in post 9/11 America, many in government and the media portray "terrorist" and "Muslim" as interchangeable identities. As a result, Muslims are often targets of racial, ethnic and religious profiling.

Join Julia Shearson, executive director for the Cleveland chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Cleveland), for a discussion of religious profiling, national security, and religious freedom.

Profiling Islam: Faith under surveillance
Time: 12 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Place: Max Wohl Civil Liberties Center, 4506 Chester Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44103

To RSVP or for more information, call (216) 472-2220 or email contact@acluohio.org

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CAIR-CINCINNATI HOLDS '20,000 DIALOGUES' PROGRAM - TOP

(CINCINNATI, OH, 7/1/10) – The Cincinnati office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations-Ohio (CAIR-OH) recently held a screening of "Inside Islam: What a Billion Muslims Really Think" followed by a dialogue at Xavier University. The event, co-sponsored by Intercommunity Justice and Peace Center, Franciscans Network, Muslim Student Association of the University of Cincinnati, Ihsan Center, and the Middle Eastern Culture Club of Xavier University, brought together more than 60 people of diverse backgrounds to view and discuss the film.

The dialogue took place as part of Unity Productions Foundation's "20,000 Dialogues" program, a nationwide project designed to bring people of different faiths together using films about Muslims to stimulate discussion and promote understanding.

"Participants in the dialogue had the opportunity to discuss the results from the poll, which they found surprising, as well as solutions for further education and action," said CAIR-Cincinnati Executive Director Karen Dabdoub. "Such dialogues dispel tensions and promote greater understanding between people."

The Cincinnati chapter is one of three in CAIR-Ohio. 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.

CONTACT: Karen Dabdoub, 513-281-8200, E-Mail: kdabdoub@cair.com; Roula Allouch E-Mail: rallouch@cair.com

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CAIR-LA REPS MEET WITH GERMAN MARSHALL FUND PROGRAM FELLOWS - TOP

(ANAHEIM, CA, 7/1/10) – On Friday, June 25, representatives of the Greater Los Angeles Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations office (CAIR-LA) met with six fellows from the Marshall Memorial Fellowship Program of The German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF).

The Marshall Fund, based out of Washington D.C., is a non-partisan American public policy and grant making institution dedicated to promoting better understanding and cooperation between North America and Europe on transatlantic and global issues.

CAIR-LA Deputy Executive Director and Staff Attorney Ameena Mirza Qazi and Communications Manager Munira Syeda met with the delegation.

The lively discussion focused on the growth and progress of the American Muslim community, challenges facing the Muslim community in post-9/11 society and maintaining civil liberties while strengthening national security. The discussion also shed light on the integration and assimilation of Muslim minorities on the other side of the Atlantic.

"It was heartwarming to engage on shared values of cooperation and partnership with our European visitors," said Qazi.

The visit was coordinated with help from Richard Verches, assistant executive director of the Los Angeles County Workforce Investment Board.

CONTACT: CAIR-LA Communications Manager Munira Syeda, (714) 776-1847, (714) 851-4851 or E-Mail at info@losangeles.cair.com

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CAIR: ACLU FILES LAWSUIT CHALLENGING UNCONSTITUTIONAL 'NO FLY LIST' - TOP
PR Newswire, 6/30/10

The American Civil Liberties Union today filed a first-of-its-kind lawsuit on behalf of 10 U.S. citizens and lawful residents who are prohibited from flying to or from the United States or over U.S. airspace because they are on the government's "No Fly List." None of the individuals in the lawsuit, including a disabled U.S. Marine Corps veteran stranded in Egypt and a U.S. Army veteran stuck in Colombia, have been told why they are on the list or given a chance to clear their names . . .

In addition to Wizner and Choudhury, attorneys on the case are Kevin Diaz and cooperating attorney Steven Wilker with the ACLU of Oregon; Ahilan Arulanantham, Jennie Pasquarella and cooperating attorney Reem Salahi with the ACLU of Southern California; Alan Schlosser and Julia Harumi Mass of the ACLU of Northern California; and Laura Ives of the ACLU of New Mexico. The Council on American-Islamic Relations consulted with Raymond Knaeble and directed him to the ACLU. (More)

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CAIR-WA: MUSLIM GROUP'S VEHICLE VANDALIZED - TOP
Molly Smith, Real Change News, 6/30/10

. . . According to Bukhari, CAIR's national chapters report alleged hate crimes against Muslim Americans to both local and federal authorities in order to ensure that there is an accurate national account of such crimes against this community. Under its Uniform Crime Reporting Program, the FBI maintains a national hate crime data collection system. He also notes that the penalties are stricter at the federal level, a fact that CAIR hopes will serve as a stronger deterrent for future hate crimes.

CAIR's Seattle chapter seldom reports incidents to the FBI. "This may be the first incident that we have reported to the FBI this year," says Bukhari.

"The event that took place in Bellevue fits a pattern of increased targeting of persons and property associated with Islam and the American Muslim community," he wrote in his letter to the Seattle FBI field office. (More)

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CAIR-CA: THE BUTTERFLY MOSQUE: ON-STAGE CONVERSATION WITH G. WILLOW WILSON - TOP
Red Room, 7/1/10

Join us for an on-stage conversation with American author G. Wilson about her latest book "The Butterfly Mosque".

G. Willow Wilson is an American author and essayist who divides her time between Egypt and the US. Her articles about modern religion and the Middle East have appeared in publications including the Atlantic Monthly, The New York Times Magazine and The Canada National Post . . .

Part travelogue, love story, and memoir, The Butterfly Mosque is a brave, inspiring story of faith -- in God, in each other, in ourselves, and in the ability of relationships to transcend cultural barriers and exist above the evils that threaten to keep us apart. (More)

Time: 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Date: Saturday, July, 10, 2010
Place: 1433 Madison Street, Oakland, CA
Ticket information: $7 adults, $5 students.
Phone: (510) 832-7600

Click here for more information.

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CAIR: 3 SAUDI UM STUDENTS ARRESTED, DETAINED FOR SEVERAL DAYS OVER VISA ISSUES - TOP

Chelsi Moy, Missoulian, 7/1/10

Three University of Montana students from Saudi Arabia were arrested on campus last week by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and detained for several days in Helena before being released . . .

Ibrahim Hooper, spokesman for the Counsel on American-Islamic Relations, an advocacy group based in Washington, D.C., said an increasing number of Muslims are being targeted by federal agencies in the wake of incidents such as the Fort Hood shootings and the Christmas Day airplane bomb scare in Detroit. (More)