CAIR Welcomes ‘Long Overdue’ Gaza Ceasefire, Calls for Concrete Steps to End Occupation

by Khalid Turaani in 2025, December, Recent News, Take Action

(COLUMBUS, OH, 01/17/2025) – The Ohio Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations in Columbus welcomes the news of a pending ceasefire in Gaza, albeit long overdue after more than 15 months of genocide and overshadowed by the mass destruction and loss of over 46,000 Palestinians as a result of Israel’s military campaign.

During this period, the longest compared to previous attacks on Gaza, universities, schools, hospitals, places of worship and even tents were turned into scenes of massacres. Many doctors, nurses and humanitarian relief workers were targeted and killed by Israel. Moreover, Israel has obstructed aid and left the population of Gaza divided between North and South without adequate food, water, shelter, medical care, or daily necessities. The scale of destruction in Gaza is unprecedented, and the collective trauma endured by its people cannot be overstated. For the first time, the acronym WCNSF emerged out of the Gazan Strip: wounded child, no surviving family.

While the ceasefire halts the immediate violence, offering a fragile relief, CAIR-Ohio stresses that true peace in Palestine cannot be achieved without justice and without addressing the deeply seated and ongoing violence: the illegal occupation of Palestinian land and systemic oppression of the Palestinian people which has been ongoing for more than 76 years.

“While we welcome the ceasefire, we remain vigilant and committed to advocating for real and lasting change,” said Khalid Turaani, Executive Director of CAIR-Ohio Columbus. “This is a reminder that the work continues. We call on our public officials to take concrete steps beyond rhetoric. Meaningful action is needed to ensure that this ceasefire marks the beginning of a lasting resolution to ensure justice, accountability, and the protection of fundamental human rights.”

As an American civil rights organization, CAIR-Ohio calls on the American government and representatives to stop the aid to Israel and to adhere to national and international laws that prohibit exporting American weapons for the use in war crimes as well as to hold Israel accountable.

The resilience of the Palestinian people in the face of unimaginable adversity inspires us to continue amplifying their voices and standing in solidarity with all communities that face injustice. Similarly, the courage of students and their activism must be celebrated and acknowledged. In the past year, CAIR-Ohio and other chapters have received numerous complaints filed over anti-Palestinian harassment and discrimination in schools, on college campuses, and beyond.

As America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization, CAIR remains dedicated to protecting civil rights, promoting justice, and empowering American Muslims. CAIR has three offices in Ohio – Cincinnati, Columbus, and Cleveland.

END

Contact: CAIR Ohio Executive Director Khalid Turaani, kturaani@cair.com

CAIR Ohio Outreach Coordinator Caisha Abdullahi cabdullahi@cair.com

CAIR Ohio Communications Coordinator Sara Abou Rashed sabourashed@cair.com

CAIR-Ohio Confronts Anti-Palestinian Harassment at The Mall at Fairfield

by Khalid Turaani in 2025, December, press release, Recent News

(Columbus, Ohio, 1/16/2025) Recently, The Ohio Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations in Columbus (CAIR-Ohio Columbus) resolved a verbal and physical discrimination incident that occurred on October 24, 2024, at The Mall at Fairfield Commons in Beavercreek, Ohio.

The victim, a mother shopping with her Palestinian son, was verbally and physically assaulted by two female workers (later identified as an employee and store owner) for wearing a “Free Palestine” shirt. The two workers verbally abused the mother with racially charged and anti-Palestinian insults. As she tried to record the incident, they grabbed her by the arm and shouted slurs at her. The workers then called mall security, falsely accusing the mother of being the instigator.

While mall security de-escalated the situation, the mother and her son were left distressed without formal resolution and the aggressors without consequence. When the mother’s complaint to mall management went unanswered, she sought CAIR-Ohio’s help.

The legal director of CAIR-Ohio’s Columbus, Dayton, and Cincinnati, Jwayyed Jwayyed, contacted the general manager of The Mall at Fairfield Commons and demanded a formal investigation, a public apology, and reinforced commitment to a safe and welcoming environment for all patrons.

On January 8, 2025, CAIR-Ohio received notice from the legal department of the owner company of The Mall at Fairfield commons, WPG, which also owns Polaris Fashion Place and major shopping centers across the nation. They confirmed receipt of CAIR’s letter and that the store owner and employee in question were formally reprimanded and informed of further disciplinary action if such harassment reoccurs. The company affirmed its disapproval of the discriminatory incident and its commitment to the safety and inclusion for all patrons regardless of background.  

“We appreciate that the management of the Mall at Fairfield Commons took swift action in addressing the harassment and reprimanding the individuals involved,’’ said Jwayyed, CAIR-Ohio’s legal director. “However, this incident is one of many we receive weekly. While a small win, it highlights the urgent need for stronger policies against intimidation and discrimination.

No one should fear harassment simply for expressing their views or showing up as who they are, and we will hold accountable those who attempt to silence or threaten others.”

CAIR-Ohio is committed to pursuing any incidents of harassment, discrimination or intimidation to protect the civil rights, dignity, and safety of all individuals, regardless of their background, beliefs, or identity. To report an incident, file this form.

Executive Director of CAIR Ohio Columbus Comments on Ceasefire

by Khalid Turaani in 2024, December, Recent News, Take Action

On January 14, WBNS-10 TV interviewed CAIR-Ohio executive director Khalid Turaani as talks of a ceasefire deal were in progress. He affirmed the need to look forward to rebuilding Gaza’s destroyed housing units, schools, universities, and mourned personal losses of friends among the over 46,000 martyrs. As of today, the ceasefire is official and the work more eminent.

Watch the full video below. 

Executive Director CAIR-Ohio Columbus, Testifies Against SB 297 at Ohio Statehouse

by Khalid Turaani in 2024, December, Recent News, Take Action

Executive Director Khalid Turaani spoke at the Senate Judiciary Committee on behalf of CAIR-Ohio – Columbus | Cincinnati | Dayton alongside CAIR-Ohio Cleveland, Jewish Voices for Peace Central Ohio, and Learn and Liberate to stand against Ohio Senate Bill 297. This bill stated that Ohio would adopt the IHRA’s definition of antisemitism, which would criminalize the “conflation of Israel as a racist endeavor.”

This means that many student and community advocacy efforts, including chants such as “from the river to the sea,” would be up to the interpretation of legislators and could be deemed antisemitic under this definition. Such a move poses a serious threat to free speech and the ability to criticize the policies of a government without fear of criminal repercussions.

During his testimony, Khalid Turaani highlighted the dangers of adopting the IHRA definition, emphasizing that it conflates legitimate criticism of Israel’s government and policies with antisemitism, thereby stifling political discourse and activism. CAIR-Ohio, alongside its partners, argued that this bill undermines constitutional protections of free speech and the First Amendment while targeting advocacy for Palestinian rights.

The coalition urged lawmakers to consider the broader implications of this legislation, particularly its potential to silence marginalized communities and activists fighting for justice and human rights. Advocacy organizations reaffirmed their commitment to standing against all forms of bigotry, including antisemitism, while defending the right to hold governments accountable for their actions.

As this issue progresses, CAIR-Ohio and its allies will continue to mobilize and educate the public on the critical importance of safeguarding free speech and upholding the constitutional rights of all Ohioans.

While addressing hate is essential, this bill undermines efforts to combat genuine antisemitism by equating it with valid critiques of a foreign government. Stand with us in defending free expression and opposing this harmful legislation. 

By duplicating existing laws on hate speech and violence, this bill creates unnecessary legal overlap without offering additional protection. It also introduces vague and broad definitions that could be used to suppress activism, particularly among marginalized communities, and lead to selective and discriminatory enforcement.

Read the bill as introduced here

Khalid Turaani, Executive Director of CAIR Ohio in Columbus Stated: 

“While we support efforts to combat hate, including antisemitism, SB 297, as written, poses serious concerns. The bill threatens to infringe on First Amendment rights by restricting legitimate political dissent, particularly in criticism of a foreign government.”

Turaani added, “Instead of passing this legislation, we urge lawmakers to strengthen existing laws, foster dialogue, and focus on holistic, equitable approaches to combating hate and promoting justice for all communities.”

ACTION ALERT: Free Speech Under Attack – Say No to SB297

by Khalid Turaani in 2024, December, Recent News, Take Action
Take Action

Join CAIR-Ohio in urging Ohio state senators to reject Senator Terry Johnson’s proposed anti-free speech bill. This legislation dangerously expands the definition of antisemitism by relying on the controversial IHRA definition, which conflates legitimate criticism of Israel with antisemitism. Such a broad and misleading interpretation poses a direct threat to free speech and political advocacy, criminalizing protected First Amendment rights.

While addressing hate is essential, this bill undermines efforts to combat genuine antisemitism by equating it with valid critiques of a foreign government. Stand with us in defending free expression and opposing this harmful legislation. 

By duplicating existing laws on hate speech and violence, this bill creates unnecessary legal overlap without offering additional protection. It also introduces vague and broad definitions that could be used to suppress activism, particularly among marginalized communities, and lead to selective and discriminatory enforcement.

Read the bill as introduced here

Khalid Turaani, Executive Director of CAIR Ohio in Columbus Stated: 

“While we support efforts to combat hate, including antisemitism, SB 297, as written, poses serious concerns. The bill threatens to infringe on First Amendment rights by restricting legitimate political dissent, particularly in criticism of a foreign government.”

Turaani added, “Instead of passing this legislation, we urge lawmakers to strengthen existing laws, foster dialogue, and focus on holistic, equitable approaches to combating hate and promoting justice for all communities.”

Take Action

Press Release: CAIR-Ohio Calls for Ethics Probe of Alleged Racial Disparities in Sentencing by Judge

by Khalid Turaani in 2024, October, Recent News

Press Release: CAIR-Ohio Demands Medical Records and Transparency​

by Khalid Turaani in 2024, October, Recent News

(COLUMBUS, OH – 10/18/2024) — On Friday, October 18, The Ohio Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) and leaders from the Somali-Muslim community held a press conference to address the discriminatory treatment faced by Deqa Haji, a mother and nurse whose child is receiving care at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. The community is demanding that Mt. Carmel St. Ann’s Hospital release all of Deqa’s and her child’s medical records and that Nationwide Children’s Hospital provide full transparency and cooperation regarding her son’s ongoing care. 

Deqa Haji has been struggling for some time with issues concerning her newborn child. The child was injured at birth, though it is unclear when and where the injury occurred. Deqa has been following up with endless investigations, and eventually, her newborn was taken away and placed under the care of child protective services.

Deqa Haji embarked on an exhaustive search and pursued every possible avenue to regain custody of her child, but the situation has become increasingly difficult. Deqa remains hopeful that she will eventually regain custody of her child, but there are many challenges that require resilience and determination. 

CAIR Ohio joins the community in calling on both Nationwide Children’s Hospital and Mt. Carmel St. Ann’s Hospital to release Deqa’s and her child’s medical records and provide the transparency needed to ensure she can properly advocate for her child’s health and well-being. 

Deqa, supported by her legal counsel and family advocates, has spent two years battling for her child’s well-being and to protect her parental rights. Advocates at the press conference highlighted how systemic barriers and discrimination have impacted Deqa’s ability to effectively advocate for her child. 

In a statement, CAIR-Ohio Executive Director Khalid Turaani said: “Every parent deserves the right to advocate for their child. We call on Nationwide Children’s Hospital to honor Deqa’s parental rights and on Mt. Carmel St. Ann’s to release all medical records related to Deqa and her child. This transparency is crucial for Deqa to ensure her child’s healthcare needs are met.” 

Turaani also noted, “The family, alongside community organizations, is prepared to explore all available options, including legal action, to ensure justice for Deqa and her child.” 

In a statement, family advocates shared: “We want Mount Carmel St. Anne’s to respond to Deqa’s request to receive her and her child’s records. Without those records, she can not advocate for herself or her child. We are also calling on Nationwide Children’s Hospital to meet with Deqa to better understand her concerns and demands.” 

CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization, with three offices in Ohio – Cincinnati, Columbus, and Cleveland. The organization is dedicated to enhancing understanding of Islam, protecting civil rights, promoting justice, and empowering American Muslims.  

CAIR-Ohio Hosts Kids Connect Event to Educate on Crisis in Gaza

by CAIR Ohio in 2024, July, Recent News

(COLUMBUS, OH – 7/19/2024) — Last Saturday, the Ohio Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) hosted a special Kids Connect Event at our Columbus office, dedicated to educating young minds about the ongoing situation in Gaza. The event provided the opportunity for children to connect with their community while enjoying a pancake brunch. 

During the event, the kids participated in a variety of meaningful activities. They watched an engaging documentary designed for children, which provided an insightful look into the history of Palestine and the challenges of occupation. This educational segment was designed to be both informative and age-appropriate, ensuring the kids could understand and empathize with the experiences of children in Gaza.  

CAIR-Ohio Joins Youth Islamophobia Event in Dayton

by CAIR-OHIO in 2024, July, Recent News

(DAYTON, OH – 7/3/2024) — The Ohio Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) joined a youth event to address Islamophobia held at Dayton Mercy Society. The event, attended by youth, parents, and community leaders, featured insightful discussions, personal narratives, and practical workshops aimed at equipping attendees with the knowledge and tools to counteract Islamophobia. 

CAIR-Ohio Community Relations Coordinator Sarah Mazouz presented information on the rise of incidents in Ohio, shedding light on the origins and impacts of Islamophobia, and ways to address it. Attendees also participated in discussions and interactive workshops, gaining valuable strategies for education, community engagement, and advocacy. 

CAIR-Ohio also provided resources for parents, students, and teachers, including guides on reporting incidents, creating supportive environments, and fostering inclusivity in schools. 

If you have experienced an incident, you can report it here.

To access resources CAIR-Ohio provides, click below. 

Guides & Toolkits 

Accommodation Resources  

Palestine Self-Advocacy 

Educator Resource 

ACTION ALERT: Oppose the Harmful “CAMPUS Act”

by CAIR-OHIO in 2024, June, Recent News, Take Action
Take Action

We need your immediate attention and action regarding House Bill 606 (H.B. 606), also known as the Campus Accountability and Modernization to Protect University Students (CAMPUS) Act. While this bill claims to address bias, harassment, and intimidation at institutions of higher education, it poses significant risks and harms to various communities, including Muslim and Jewish students. Here’s why we must oppose this bill:

Inadequate Protection Against Islamophobia:

    • The bill does not place equal emphasis on addressing Islamophobia, despite the rampant anti-Muslim sentiment on campuses and the existing lack of adequate protections for Muslim students. This unequal focus leaves Muslim students vulnerable to continued harassment and discrimination.

    • The bill’s provisions for partnerships between university police and law enforcement could lead to increased surveillance and profiling of Muslim students, who are already disproportionately targeted under counterterrorism measures. This risks further marginalizing and criminalizing Muslim students.

Harmful Impact on Jewish Students:

    • The bill could inadvertently harm Jewish students by tokenizing them and assuming a monolithic viewpoint on contentious issues like Israel. Jewish students who criticize Israeli policies may be unfairly targeted for antisemitism, stifling free speech and academic discourse.

    • The vagueness of the bill’s language allows for the conflation of antisemitism with anti-Zionism, using Jewish oppression to silence legitimate criticisms of Israel. This not only creates a repressive environment for human rights advocacy but also diminishes the real threats to Jewish safety from white supremacist groups.

Unclear Allocation of Funds:

    • The bill allocates $4 million in funds without clear guidelines, risking the potential use of these funds for violent crackdowns on campus protests. This misuse of resources under the guise of enhancing safety has already made campuses more dangerous, as evidenced by recent arrests of protesters by campus police.

TAKE ACTION: Fill out this form to email your legislators TODAY and urge them to oppose HB 606, and CALL the Finance Committee Chair as they will potentially vote on it Tuesday, June 25!

CALL: 

Finance Committee Chair — Jay Edwards: 614-466-2158 / Rep94@OhioHouse.gov 

Bill sponsor #1 — Rep Justin Pizzulli (R): 614-466-2124 / Rep90@OhioHouse.gov 

Bill sponsor #2 — Rep Dontavius Jarrells (D): 614-466-5343 / Rep01@OhioHouse.gov