CAIR-Ohio Presents at Immigration Asylum Seminar

by Fadila Gitosuputro in 2023, Recent News, September

(COLUMBUS, OH, 9/21/2023) —On September 17, 2023, CAIR-Ohio Outreach Director Victoria Hickcox joined community members, leaders, and other organizations, at Jigjiga Mall for an Immigration Asylum Seminar, hosted by Rep. Mohamed (D3), to discuss CAIR-Ohio’s vital mission work and legal services. The seminar, attended by community members, legal professionals, and advocates, focused on connecting individuals facing challenges to seeking legal immigration status and asylum in the United States.

During her presentation, Hickcox highlighted the core mission of CAIR-Ohio, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to upholding civil rights, promoting justice, and combating discrimination. She underscored the critical role CAIR-Ohio plays in supporting immigrants and refugees, particularly in navigating complex immigration processes. Hickcox clarified that the immigration cases handled by the organization are primarily related to delays, often due to individuals being on government watchlists, or other instances of religious discrimination.  

The seminar featured attorneys and other staff from Community Refugee & Immigration Services (CRIS) and Columbus Legal Aid, who shared their expertise and insights on various aspects of immigration and asylum law. 

For more information about CAIR-Ohio and its work, please visit www.cair-ohio.com/what-we-do. 

CAIR-Ohio Presents on Islamophobia and White Supremacy to High School Class

by Fadila Gitosuputro in 2023, Recent News, September

(COLUMBUS, OH, 9/21/2023) — On September 15, 2023, students in a Political Radicalism class at Worthington Kilbourne High School had the unique opportunity to gain insights into Islam, combat Islamophobia, and understand the challenges of white supremacy. CAIR-Ohio Outreach Director Victoria Hickcox conducted an “Islam 101” presentation and engaged students in a thoughtful Q&A session. 

The presentation began by demystifying Islam, sharing its core beliefs and practices. She emphasized the diversity within the Muslim community and dispelled common misconceptions. The presentation fostered a deeper understanding of Islam and laid the foundation for addressing Islamophobia. 

Following the “Islam 101” presentation, students participated in a robust Q&A session. They had the opportunity to ask candid questions about Islam, its cultural aspects, and how to combat Islamophobia and white supremacy in their communities. 

CAIR-Ohio Endorses Cincinnati Affordable Housing Initiative

by Fadila Gitosuputro in 2023, Recent News, September

(CINCINNATI, OH, 9/14/2023) — The Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today endorsed the Cincinnati Affordable Housing Initiative, Issue 24, a vital solution to the city’s housing crisis. With one in three residents unable to afford housing, it is time to act.   

The Cincinnati Affordable Housing Initiative addresses critical issues facing our community:   

  • Housing Shortage: Cincinnati faces a staggering shortage of over 28,000 affordable housing units, making it an urgent crisis.   
  • Soaring Rents: The median rent in Cincinnati has skyrocketed to $1,815 per month, placing it out of reach for many residents.   
  • Homelessness Impact: Last year, 172 lives were lost due to homelessness, underscoring the urgency of finding solutions.   
  • Addressing Disparities: This initiative is a crucial step towards combating racial injustices in housing, with a focus on rectifying disparities that disproportionately affect Black households and new Americans who are often stuck with overcrowded housing.   

“Access to safe and affordable housing is a fundamental civil right, one that deeply resonates with our diverse Muslim community,” says CAIR-Ohio Outreach Director Victoria Hickcox. “We proudly support the Cincinnati Affordable Housing Initiative as it represents a significant stride towards addressing inequities in our city.”   

The Cincinnati Affordable Housing Initiative restores the earned income tax to its 2020 level, generating $40-50 million annually for affordable housing. Most two-bedroom apartments will cost $645/month or less. Funds also support emergency services and homeownership.   

For more information, visit: https://www.cincyhousingforall.com. 

CAIR-Ohio is a chapter of CAIR, America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. CAIR’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. 

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CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio, Cincinnati & Columbus Executive Director Amina Barhumi,  

abarhumi@cair.com | 614-763-6557 

CAIR-Ohio Condemns Distribution of White Supremacist Antisemitic Flyers in Cincinnati

by Fadila Gitosuputro in 2023, Recent News, September

(CINCINNATI, OH, 9/1/2023) – The Ohio Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio), of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the distribution of white supremacist antisemitic flyers on windshields in Cincinnati. 

The flyers were placed on the windshields of cars parked in the parking lot of the WLWT5 news office.

SEE: Flyers placed on cars latest in series of antisemitic incidents in Greater Cincinnati 

“We condemn the distribution of this hateful propaganda and call on Ohioans from all backgrounds to stand together in repudiation of white supremacy, antisemitism and all forms of religious and ethnic bigotry,” said CAIR-Ohio, Cincinnati & Columbus Executive Director Amina Barhumi. 

She said CAIR-Ohio and the American Muslim community stand in solidarity with all those challenging antisemitism, systemic anti-Black racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia, white supremacy, and all other forms of bigotry.

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

CAIR-Ohio Condemns White Supremacist Flyer Distribution in Dayton Neighborhood

by Fadila Gitosuputro in 2023, August, Recent News

(DAYTON, OH—08/17/2023) – The Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) strongly condemns the recent distribution of white supremacist flyers by a hate group in the Brittany Hills/Woodbourne neighborhood of Washington Township. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office’s ongoing investigation into these incidents highlights the concerning rise of hate-based activities in our communities.

CAIR-Ohio stands in solidarity with all residents of the neighborhood who have been affected by these abhorrent flyers promoting hateful ideologies. The presence of such material not only spreads divisiveness and fear but also undermines the sense of security and unity that every community should enjoy.

In response to this alarming incident, CAIR-Ohio Outreach Director Victoria Hickcox stated, “We unequivocally condemn any attempt to disseminate hateful and supremacist ideologies that seek to divide our diverse communities. Such actions are a threat to the peaceful coexistence we all value.”

The safety and well-being of all community members are of paramount importance. CAIR-Ohio encourages anyone who comes across materials promoting hate or prejudice to report them to the proper authorities. In instances where such actions escalate into harassment, threats, or vandalism, it is crucial to address these incidents promptly to ensure the security and harmony of the neighborhood. 

“We call upon law enforcement agencies and community leaders to remain vigilant against hate-driven activities and to work together to create an environment where all individuals can live without fear of discrimination or bigotry,” Hickcox added. “Our unity is our strength, and we must stand together against any attempts to sow seeds of hate within our neighborhoods.” 

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

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.

CAIR-Ohio Celebrates Victory Against Undemocratic Issue One

by Fadila Gitosuputro in 2023, August, Recent News

(COLUMBUS, OH—8/9/2023) — Today, CAIR-Ohio celebrated the results of yesterday’s special election. Ohioans have made history and garnered national attention in the August special election by rejecting Issue 1, a proposal backed by special interest groups that aimed to undermine the power of citizen-led ballot initiatives. The defeat of Issue 1, which sought to raise the threshold for passing Constitutional Amendments or citizen-initiated measures from a simple majority (50% + 1) to a supermajority (60%), marks a significant victory for democratic values. Moreover, Issue 1 intended to: 

  • Require citizens who want to place an amendment on the ballot to collect signatures from at least 5% of voters from the last gubernatorial election in all 88 counties, instead of the current 44. 
  • Eliminate a 10-day cure period that allows citizens to replace any signatures deemed faulty by the secretary of state’s office. 

In a noteworthy effort to raise awareness and educate the public about Issue 1, CAIR-Ohio organized efforts to increase the participation of the Ohio Muslim community in the election. Actions included:  

  • Designing and curating tools and resources for Get-Out-The-Vote efforts by providing toolkits, voter guides, infographics, videos, presentations, and mailing postcards. 
  • Translating materials into other languages to encourage participation amongst  
    Arabic and Somali speakers. 
  • Conducting weekly tabling and information sharing at congregational Friday Jummah prayers to address misinformation and engage with mosque attendees. 
  • Disseminating resources through masjid leaders’ network, student groups through high school and college students, and providing clarity on social media networks—such as Facebook and WhatsApp groups.  

In a statement, CAIR-Ohio Outreach Director Victoria Hickcox said: 

“Yesterday, united against adversity, we stood strong. The defeat of Issue 1 wasn’t just a vote, but a resounding ‘NO’ to discrimination, injustice, and the erosion of our rights. Our unity protected our democracy’s essence, proving that when voices join, they triumph. We celebrate this win, and know that we have much more work ahead of us to defeat the corruption of our legislature.” 

CAIR-Ohio extends its heartfelt appreciation to all who stood against this undemocratic proposal. We commend the diverse coalition of citizens, activists, and community members for their dedication to preserving participatory democracy. Your collective efforts in spreading awareness, dispelling misinformation, and fostering unity have left an enduring mark on Ohio’s democratic landscape.

CAIR-Ohio Joins Faith Leaders Press Conference on Issue 1

by Fadila Gitosuputro in 2023, August, Recent News

(COLUMBUS, OH— 8/3/2023) — Yesterday, CAIR-Ohio joined “Faith Votes No,” a press conference organized by Faith in Public Life Action at Gladden Social Justice Park that brought together numerous Columbus faith leaders from across the city. 

The event was aimed to provide further education on the importance of Issue 1 and how it directly impacts religiously practicing Ohioans who come from all faith backgrounds. Powerful testimonials from religious leaders explained how harmful Issue 1 would be to their communities. 

Muslims in Ohio often face discrimination and racism, which repeatedly comes straight from elected officials and the agencies meant to protect us. The August 8 Special Election functions as a form of government overreach because it is inherently undemocratic and aims to take away power from Ohioans. 

CAIR-Ohio, Columbus & Cincinnati Executive Director Amina Barhumi stressed that “I am called on to seek and speak the truth and practice it as I speak it. Islam calls upon me to address injustice and oppression wherever and whenever I see it, particularly when it is against the individuals who are the most vulnerable.” 

SEE: Photos: Greater Columbus faith leaders speak out against Issue 1

Issue 1 would require 60% of voter approval to pass Constitutional Amendments. The new proposed law claims to protect the Constitution but takes away from the principle of one person, one vote. Every vote counts and every voter matters, which is why we must reject Issue 1 by voting NO.  

A NO Vote on Issue 1 says: 

  • NO to unfair healthcare and housing polices 
  • NO to dangerous discrimination policies 
  • NO to efforts that undermine our public education 
  • NO to our voices being silenced at the ballot box 

Vote NO on Issue 1 and stand behind the power of our voice. Voting NO on Issue 1 sends a message to Ohio legislators that we are stabilizing power in the people.  

With less than one week left until the August 8 Election Day, CAIR-Ohio encourages community members to head to the polls early and cast their votes.  

View press conference here. 

More information regarding Issue 1 and early voting for the Special Election is available on our Voter Guide. 

CAIR-Ohio Hosts Informative Event in Columbus Urging NO Vote on Issue 1

by Fadila Gitosuputro in 2023, August, Recent News

(COLUMBUS, OH— 8/1/2023) — On Sunday July 30, CAIR-Ohio held an informational community event at International Mall on the North side of Columbus. The event aimed to provide educational resources about Issue 1 and emphasized the importance of voting NO in the upcoming August 8th Special Election. The event brought together the Muslim community in the Columbus area and welcomed Mayor Andrew Ginther, who voiced his support by emphasizing the value of every individual’s vote in America. 

Attendees had the opportunity to learn about Issue 1 through a slideshow presented in both English and Somali, which highlighted crucial details about the election and early voting times. Materials were also provided in both languages for attendees to take and share with others in the community. 

The focus of the event was to educate the community on the proposed changes by Issue 1 and its potential impact on democratic rights in Ohio. If passed, Issue 1 would alter the current law, requiring a 60% supermajority of votes instead of the long-standing simple majority of 50% + 1 for Amendments to the Ohio Constitution. This change would make it significantly harder to propose and implement constitutional changes in the future, essentially silencing the voices of the majority in Ohio. 

Pamphlets and handouts distributed during the event provided a comparison of the current and proposed constitutional amendment processes. It underscored the serious risk posed by Issue 1, as it threatens the democratic rights of citizens and hinders the ability to make necessary changes when our legislature fails to act in the best interest of its constituents. 

CAIR-Ohio urged the community to vote NO on Issue 1 and emphasized the importance of participation in the August 8th Election. By voting against Issue 1, the community can prevent the loss of individual power, ensuring that the constitutional amendment process remains accessible and representative. 

With only one week left until the August 8th Election Day, CAIR-Ohio encouraged the community to take advantage of early voting opportunities and head to the polls to cast their votes.  

For more information about voting in this special election, view our Voter Guide and the Somali translation here. 

CAIR-Ohio Welcomes Firing of Officer Involved in Police Dog Mauling of Black Man with Hands Up

by Fadila Gitosuputro in 2023, July, Recent News

(CINCINNATI, OH – 7/27/23) – The Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed the firing of an officer involved in the recent mauling of a black man by a police dog during a traffic stop after the man raised his hands in the air.   

The Circleville Police Department said Ryan Speakman was fired because he “did not meet the standards and expectations we hold for our police officers.” 

SEE: Ohio officer fired after letting his police dog attack a surrendering truck driver 

Washington, D.C., based CAIR had previously condemn the mauling and thanked Ohio State Highway Patrol officers for their professional actions, in contradiction to the actions of the local police officer who released the dog.   

“We welcome the firing of the officer who released the dog to attack the suspect as a sign that such disturbing actions will not be tolerated or excused,” said CAIR-Ohio, Cincinnati & Columbus Executive Director Amina Barhumi. “We urge local police departments nationwide to use this as a teaching moment to ensure the respectful and non-violent treatment of all suspects.”   

She said CAIR and the American Muslim community stand in solidarity with all those challenging antisemitism, systemic anti-Black racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia, white supremacy, and all other forms of bigotry.    

CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.                

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.               

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

CAIR-Ohio Hosts GOTV Community Dinner in Dayton

by Fadila Gitosuputro in 2023, July, Recent News

(DAYTON, OH—7/25/23) – On Sunday, July 23, CAIR-Ohio held a community dinner at the Islamic Center of Centerville encouraging the community to vote NO on Issue 1 for the August special election. 

This event gathered Dayton area Muslims to inform them about Issue 1 and what is at stake with this election. CAIR-Ohio shared educational materials and initiated meaningful discussions about the need to protect citizen-led ballot initiatives by voting no. 

Issue 1 aims to permanently end majority rule in Ohio by increasing the passing requirement for a ballot initiative from a simple majority (50% + 1) to a supermajority (60%), which threatens the sacred principle of “one person, one vote.” If an issue needs 60 percent to pass, what that really means is that 40 percent of voters can veto the will of the majority on any issue. 

If enacted, this legislation will undermine Ohio’s constitutional amendment process, impose minority rule, and rob us of our ability to make decisions that affect the Muslim community.  

“CAIR-Ohio urges you to Vote NO on Issue 1. It is our right and responsibility as Muslims to make our opinions heard, and participating in the election is a demonstration of our dedication to creating a better future for our communities,” said CAIR-Ohio Outreach Director Victoria Hickcox. 

View our Voter Guide for more information on this election and ways to vote.