(COLUMBUS, OH – 11/30/23) — The Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) met with Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, alongside prominent leaders from Ohio mosques, to address concerns related to security and the alarming rise of Islamophobia in the state.
The meeting, held at the Governor’s office on November 15, brought together community leaders and Governor DeWine’s office in an effort to foster understanding and cooperation in the face of growing challenges faced by the Muslim community. Key topics of discussion included enhancing security measures for mosques and Islamic centers, as well as strategies to counteract the rise of Islamophobic incidents.
During the meeting, CAIR-Ohio and the masajid leaders presented a list of recommendations aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of the Muslim community. The proposals encompassed both short-term and long-term initiatives, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts between the government and the Muslim community to address shared concerns.
Additionally, CAIR-Ohio and 46 endorsed mosques and Muslim organizations submitted a letter to Governor DeWine addressing the ongoing crisis in Palestine. The letter outlined specific demands and called for immediate action to address the humanitarian situation and advocate for justice in the region.
Governor DeWine expressed his commitment to fostering a secure and inclusive environment for all Ohioans and acknowledged the importance of collaborative efforts in combating Islamophobia. He assured the attendees that their concerns would be given careful consideration.
However, it is with disappointment that CAIR-Ohio notes that despite the meeting and receipt of the letter on behalf of the broader Ohio Muslim community, Governor DeWine has yet to take tangible action on the following outlined demands:
- Publicly condemn all forms of discrimination, violence, and hate crimes targeting the Muslim and Arab community in Ohio.
- Address Israel’s violence against civilians and settlement expansions as of late;
- Express support for the sovereignty, resistance, and will of the Palestinian people, who’ve lived under Israeli occupation for over 75 years—in the same manner your office did regarding the Ukrainian people;
- And to meet with our community, that include medical, legal, and human rights experts on Israeli apartheid and oppression.
CAIR-Ohio remains dedicated to engaging in constructive dialogue with government officials and advocating for the rights and well-being of the Muslim community. We call on Governor DeWine to fulfill the promises made during the meeting and respond to the urgent concerns outlined in the letter.
“While we appreciate the Governor’s meeting with Ohio Muslims, we now look forward to concrete actions that will combat Islamophobia and address the pressing humanitarian crisis in Palestine, including public statements on condemnation of Israel’s genocide and the rise of violence against Muslims, Arabs, Palestinians, and those perceived to be as a result of media and elected officials one-sided statements” said CAIR-Ohio Executive Director Amina Barhumi. “CAIR-Ohio remains steadfast in its dedication to fostering a secure and harmonious environment for all, and we call on Governor DeWine to join us in turning words into impactful change.”
TAKE ACTION: Send a letter to Gov. DeWine and other Ohio Elected Officials Urging them to Address Demands
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
