Author: CAIR-OHIO

(COLUMBUS, OH – 5/24/23) – On Saturday, May 16, CAIR-Ohio tabled at the Summer Celebration of Diverse Readers Event, hosted by the Ohio Education Association (OEA), to share educator guides to Islamic practices, and the newly launched ‘Educator Resource’ page on the CAIR-Ohio website.  

Families in Hilliard and surrounding communities attended the event to receive free books for all elementary-aged children written by a variety of authors from unique backgrounds. All books distributed feature diverse characters, allowing readers to learn from a colorful array of perspectives. Each story cultivates understanding of different individuals and can create a more inclusive environment. 

CAIR-Ohio staff also distributed postcards that feature CAIR-Ohio’s ‘Educator Resource” page with students, their families, and educators. The Educator Resource features books that play a pivotal role in showcasing Muslim characters—these books teach readers about Muslim traditions, cultures, social contributions, as well as promoting a deeper understanding to the Muslim identity. CAIR-Ohio fully believes that positive Muslim narratives must be included in libraries and classrooms for Muslim students to feel included, and to open deeper, more meaningful conversations. 

“Muslims are the most ethnically and racially diverse faith group in America, and it is important for educators to expand their knowledge and understanding of different cultures, traditions, and perspectives to better serve Muslim students, as well as teaching other students about their Muslim peers,” said CAIR-Ohio Outreach Director Victoria Hickcox. 

“Books that represent Muslims in a positive light must be part of an inclusive learning environment. It is vital that Muslim students are being accurately represented, and they have a sense of belonging when their stories are being shared in their classrooms.” 

CAIR-Ohio’s Educator Resource page can be accessed here. 

(COLUMBUS, OH – 5/19/2023) – The Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) is proud to announce the launch of its new “Educator Resource” page. This resource is designed to empower educators by providing a diverse range of books, educator guides and toolkits, and information about the “Educating for Ohio’s Future” campaign. 

The launch of this page is a significant step towards fostering inclusive learning environments and promoting understanding of Muslim students, so that they can thrive in their schools. Muslims are the most ethnically and racially diverse faith group in the United States and it is important to include narratives that reflect this data. 

The newly launched “Educator Resource” page features a wide selection of books that highlight the rich tapestry of Muslim experiences. These books play a pivotal role in showcasing Muslim characters in a positive light and promoting a deeper understanding of Muslim identities and contributions to society. Unfortunately, several of these books have faced challenges and have been included on ban lists around the country due to misguided perceptions fueled by Islamophobia. CAIR-Ohio firmly believes that these books are vital for providing Muslim students with positive representation and nurturing a sense of belonging in the classroom.  

In line with its commitment to combating Islamophobia and uplifting the Muslim community, CAIR-Ohio recognizes the power of education in cultivating understanding, empathy, and respect. The “Educator Resource” page serves as a valuable tool for educators, equipping them with the resources needed to create inclusive classrooms that embrace the diverse experiences of Muslim students.  

This announcement comes ahead of the Ohio Education Association’s (OEA) “Summer of Diverse Readers” event, scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 20th. The OEA, in collaboration with the Hilliard Education Association and various community partners, will be distributing 9,000 diverse books to preK-6th grade readers in central Ohio, which is being held as part of the Read Across America year-round Celebrate a Nation of Diverse Readers campaign.  

“We believe in the power of diverse books and inclusive education to empower students of all backgrounds, including Muslim students,” said CAIR-Ohio Outreach Director Victoria Hickcox.  

“CAIR-Ohio stands united with educators, parents, and communities to ensure every student has the freedom to read age-appropriate books that reflect their experiences and respect their differences as well as foster a society that values understanding and inclusivity.”  

To learn more about CAIR-Ohio’s “Educator Resource” visit www.cair-ohio.com/educator-resource.  

CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. CAIR-Ohio’s mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims. CAIR-Ohio has offices in Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland.  

(COLUMBUS, OH, 5/11/23) – On May 3 and May 10, CAIR-Ohio participated in rallies held at the Ohio Statehouse in opposition to House Joint Resolution 1 (HJR1) and Senate Joint Resolution 2 (SJR2) and to protect voting rights.

The rallies brought together Ohio leaders and citizens who gathered at the House Chamber to voice their concerns and demonstrate that the resolutions did not align with the views of the community, urging that they should not be passed. The participants sought to highlight the potential harm that these resolutions could cause if implemented.

In spite of significant opposition from hundreds of Ohioans who showed up in protest of the resolutions, SJR2 passed and will be on the ballot in an August special election.

The passage of SJR2 undermines the democratic principles upon which Ohio’s governance is built. By altering the rules for constitutional amendments, the resolution could concentrate power in the hands of a few, potentially allowing a minority to impose their will on the majority. This departure from the principles of fair representation and majority rule raises concerns about the erosion of democratic values and community participation.

The opposition to HJR1 and SJR2 reflects the broader sentiment among Ohio citizens that these resolutions may lead to an imbalance of power and hinder the democratic process.

SEE: Ohio House votes to send 60% approval amendment to special election in August
https://www.statenews.org/government-politics/2023-05-10/ohio-vote-60-constitutional-amendment-august

“Despite the passage of the resolution, our commitment to preserving democracy remains unwavering. We now face a challenging landscape where our voices are being stifled and the gains of the past are threatened. But we will not be deterred. We will adapt, strategize, and continue the fight for justice, inclusivity, and equitable representation,” said CAIR-Ohio, Columbus & Cincinnati Executive Director Amina Barhumi.

“CAIR-Ohio stands resolute in our dedication to protecting the rights and voices of all Ohioans, even in the face of adversity. Together, we will forge a path forward, reclaiming the spaces where diverse perspectives can flourish and working towards a future where every citizen’s voice matters.”

To receive updates on the August Special Election, visit: https://votenoinaugust.org/

(COLUMBUS, OH, 5/9/23) Last week, CAIR-Ohio Deputy & Legal Director Lina Abbaoui attended a lunch hosted by The Arab American Bar Association of Ohio (AABAR-Ohio). Since 2010, AABAR-Ohio attorneys have had regular meetings with the purpose of networking and strengthening ties to overcome challenges together.  

The lunch event was attended by attorneys from across Central Ohio who discussed their work and made connections to further strengthen their relationships. The event provided an excellent opportunity for the attendees to engage with each other, exchange ideas, and learn about the latest developments in their respective fields. 

Apart from the networking opportunities, AABAR-Ohio also provides a platform for Arab American attorneys to voice their concerns and advocate for their rights. The association aims to empower Arab American attorneys and strengthen their representation in the legal profession. 

To learn more about AABAR-Ohio or to get involved, visit www.arabamericanbarohio.org. 

Join CAIR-Ohio and the Ohio Education Association for “A Summer Celebration of Diverse Readers” event on Saturday, May 20th at Warehouse 839 (3691 Main Street, Hilliard, OH 43026). 

Our goal is to put books featuring diverse characters, written by diverse authors, into the hands of 9,000 children in grades PreK-6th. It is imperative to provide culturally relevant and responsive content for all students, including Muslims, so that they feel included and represented. 

This event will include a Readers’ Corner, and also activities such as face painting and a selfie station! RSVP for the event here.

Interested in becoming a volunteer? Click here to sign up.