Day: November 3, 2023

(COLUMBUS, OH – 11/3/23) — The Ohio Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) has been at the forefront of advocating for Palestine and equipping the community with vital resources to support the cause. Through a series of impactful events, action alerts, and educational tools, CAIR-Ohio is empowering individuals across the state and nation to make a difference in the ongoing struggle for Palestinian rights. 

SEE: Local Palestinians gather to grieve, call for peace 

One of CAIR-Ohio’s key initiatives has been to engage communities in advocating for Palestine by providing them with easy-to-use action alerts. These alerts have played a crucial role in mobilizing individuals to reach out to their members of Congress and urge them to address the root causes of Middle East violence and to call for an immediate ceasefire as the deaths in Palestine as a result of Israel’s bombardment of Gaza have been devastating. Current numbers are over 9,000 and growing. 

To access these action alerts and take action, please visit:  

• ACTION ALERT: Urge Your Members of Congress to Address Root Cause of Mideast Violence  
• ACTION ALERT: Urge Congress to Support Ceasefire on Gaza Now 

In addition to advocating for Palestine through action alerts and events, CAIR-Ohio has provided a range of resources and tools aimed at fostering awareness and promoting anti-prejudice education. These tools are particularly important for students and individuals who may have faced discrimination or bias in response to their advocacy for Palestinian rights. 

The provided guidance empowers individuals to confidently express their support for Palestine while addressing any misconceptions or prejudices they may encounter. 

To access these resources, please visit: 

• Anti-Prejudice Tools & Guidance for Students Targeted in Response to Palestine Rights Advocacy 
• Know Your Rights: FBI & Law Enforcement 
• Know Your Rights: Free Speech & Advocacy 
• FBI Interactions: Myth or Fact? 
• Palestine Self-Advocacy Resources 

“CAIR-Ohio continues to combat Islamophobia in all of its forms,” said CAIR-Ohio Executive Director Amina Barhumi. “In the face of enormous grief and loss of life in Gaza, Palestine, and amid an unprecedent rise anti-Muslim and anti-Palestinian sentiment, we stand our ground and refuse to be silenced. Our work to protect the civil rights and human rights of Muslims and Palestinians, is what also protects the rights of every American and human citizen around the world.” 

CAIR-Ohio’s work in advocating for Palestine and providing these vital tools highlights the organization’s commitment to justice, equity, and the protection of civil rights for all. Stay tuned for more actions happening in Ohio, follow our social media pages: Facebook, Instagram, X and subscribe to our newsletter to get updates. 
 
CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. CAIR-Ohio has three offices in Ohio – Cincinnati, Columbus, and Cleveland. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.     

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CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio, Cincinnati & Columbus Executive Director Amina Barhumi: abarhumi@cair.com | 614-763-6557

(MASON, OH – 11/3/23) — CAIR-Ohio hosted its 26th Annual Cincinnati & Dayton Banquet at the beautiful Manor House in Mason, Ohio. The event, which took place on October 22, 2023, was an evening of unity, inspiration, and empowerment, bringing together a diverse group of individuals dedicated to supporting the work of CAIR-Ohio.  

The event was an opportunity for CAIR-Ohio to express its commitment to justice, especially with the ongoing genocide in Palestine. By encouraging people to stand united in faith and values, the event showcased the strength and power that can be harnessed to address societal challenges, such as actions Ohio Muslims can take to advocate for the Palestinian cause. With the theme “Unified in Faith: Building Strength & Power,” CAIR-Ohio aimed to emphasize the importance of unity, faith, and collaboration as a means to overcome challenges and achieve collective success.  

The evening spotlighted individuals who have made significant contributions through their community service with a “Community Empowerment Award.” The “Hero Award” was also presented to a group of students and is meant to recognize individuals who transformed a personal challenge into meaningful change for all Ohioans. More information on the awardees and their bios can be found here.    

Dr. Yusuf Salaam’s presence as the esteemed keynote speaker was the highlight of the evening. Dr. Salaam is a renowned motivational speaker, activist, and one of the “Exonerated Five” formerly known as the “Central Park Five.” His powerful journey from wrongful conviction and imprisonment to exoneration and advocacy for social justice serves as an inspiration to individuals worldwide. Dr. Salaam’s words resonated deeply with the audience, leaving a lasting impact and motivating attendees to work towards positive change. 

“CAIR-Ohio’s annual banquet has become a tradition of bringing people together, celebrating our diversity, and embracing our shared values,” said CAIR-Ohio Executive Director Amina Barhumi. “We are truly honored to have had Dr. Yusuf Salaam as our keynote speaker, and we are inspired by his message of resilience and unity.” 

Photos will be shared on our Facebook | Instagram soon. 

CAIR-Ohio extends its gratitude to all attendees, sponsors, and volunteers for making the 26th Annual Cincinnati & Dayton Banquet a success. Those who were not able to attend the banquet still can help us in protecting the civil rights of Ohio Muslims and strengthening our democracy by supporting CAIR-Ohio. Click here to donate.