CAIR-Ohio Joins Faith Leaders Press Conference on Issue 1

by CAIR-OHIO 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 CAIR-OHIO 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 CAIR-OHIO 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 CAIR-OHIO 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. 

CAIR-Ohio Condemns Police Dog Mauling of Black Man with Hands Up

by CAIR-OHIO in 2023, July, Recent News

(CINCINNATI, OH – 7/24/23) – 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 condemned the mauling of a black man by a police dog earlier this month during a traffic stop after the man raised his hands in the air. 

Ohio State Highway Patrol tried to stop Jadarrius Rose, 23, because his vehicle “was missing a left rear mud flap.” After Rose exited his vehicle, he can be seen on video standing in front of state troopers with his hands in the air. A Circleville, Ohio, police officer with a K9-unit dog can be heard telling Rose to “go on the ground or you’re gonna get bit.” A state trooper shouted multiple times, “Do not release the dog with his hands up,” but the local officer did release the dog, which then bit and injured Rose.  

SEE: ‘Do not release the dog with his hands up!’ Black man mauled by police canine after Ohio pursuit  

“The heart-wrenching episode serves as yet another reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive reform within law enforcement agencies,” said CAIR-Ohio, Cincinnati & Columbus Executive Director Amina Barhumi. “We implore authorities to thoroughly investigate this disturbing incident, holding all responsible parties.”  

Barhumi thanked Ohio State Highway Patrol officers for their professional actions, in contradiction to the actions of the local police officer who released the dog.  

She noted that CAIR-Ohio recently condemned the distribution of flyers promoting a white supremacist Ku Klux Klan (KKK) group in that state.  

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

CAIR-Ohio Condemns Distribution of Racist KKK Flyers in Clifton, Franklinton 

by CAIR Ohio in 2023, July, Recent News

(CINCINNATI, OH – 7/17/23) – 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 condemned the distribution of flyers promoting a white supremacist Ku Klux Klan (KKK) group in Clifton and Franklinton on Sunday.  

SEE: ‘I couldn’t believe it’; KKK recruitment fliers found in Clifton   

Franklinton neighborhood woke up to Ku Klux Klan flyers on cars, in street Sunday 

“We condemn the continuing promotion of racism and white supremacy in our state and nationwide,” said CAIR-Ohio Outreach Director Victoria Hickcox. “Bigots will continue to spread their twisted ideology unless all Americans speak out strongly and consistently against hate.”  

She said Washington, D.C., based 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.   

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CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio Outreach Director Victoria Hickcox, vhickcox@cair.com, 513-906-5728 

CAIR-Ohio Hosts Community Education Event in Cincinnati to GOTV for August Special Election

by CAIR-OHIO in 2023, July, Recent News

(CINCINNATI, OH – 7/11/23) – On Saturday, CAIR-Ohio held an event at the MidPointe Library West Chester encouraging the Greater Cincinnati Community to register to vote for the quickly-approaching Special Election on August 8. 

This event was also designed to educate the community on Issue 1, urging them to vote NO on the ballot. Issue 1 seeks to permanently end majority rule in Ohio, diminishing the sacred principle of “one person, one vote.”   

Politicians and special interests deliberately wrote Issue 1 to be confusing. 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. That means a small number of people can overrule the majority of citizens on any issue.   

If passed, this legislation would upend the constitutional amendment process and institute minority rule in Ohio, shred our Constitution, and take away our right to decide what happens in our communities.   

CAIR-Ohio Outreach Director Victoria Hickcox reiterated at the event how important this election is to protect our right to make an Ohio that is reflective of its residents, especially the Muslim community and other marginalized groups.  

“It is imperative that as a community that is often marginalized and dismissed as a constituency, that we are registered and exercising our right and responsibility as Muslims to make our voices heard at the ballot box. Our presence at the polls is a tangible expression of our commitment to shaping a future that aligns with our values.”  

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

Unsure if you are registered or moved recently? Check your status here: www.voterlookup.ohiosos.gov    

View our Voter Guide for more information.  

Protect the Rights of Muslims to Update Ohio’s Constitution: VOTE NO on August 8

by CAIR Ohio in 2023, June, Recent News

The August 8 Special Election is quickly approaching—make sure your vote is counted. CAIR-Ohio urges you to ensure your voter registration is active in order to vote in this key election. The deadline to register to vote for the special election is July 10. 

On August 8, only Issue 1 will be on your ballot—which aims to permanently end majority rule in Ohio. A NO VOTE defends majority rule and the sacred principle of ‘one person, one vote’. 

Politicians and special interests deliberately wrote Issue 1 to be confusing. If an issue needs 60% to pass, what that really means is that 40% of voters can veto the will of the majority on any issue. That means a small number of people can overrule the majority of citizens on any issue. 

If passed, this legislation would upend the constitutional amendment process and institute minority rule in Ohio, shred our Constitution, and take away our right to decide what happens in our communities. 

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

Unsure if you are registered or moved recently? Check your status here: www.voterlookup.ohiosos.gov  

View our Voter Guide for more information. 

CAIR-Ohio Joins Coalition Partners at the Statehouse to Support a Multiracial Curriculum Bill 

by CAIR Ohio in 2023, June, Recent News

(COLUMBUS, OH – 6/23/23) – On Tuesday, CAIR-Ohio attended a sponsor hearing for House Bill 171, which would require the Ohio Board of Education to update the Social Studies curriculum standards to include instruction on the migration, experiences, and contributions of a range of communities. 

Representative Mary Lightbody challenged Members of the Ohio House Primary and Secondary Education Committee to consider the impact of the bill on Ohio classrooms and multicultural students. The Representative presented a strong testimony with a primary focus on the need to equip Ohio educators with the knowledge and tools to offer culturally centered and dignifying learning experiences. 

HB 171 will benefit both educators and students of all backgrounds by requiring the inclusion of diverse histories, stories, and societal contributions of various groups into the curriculum. Often children of underrepresented groups feel left out in their schools. To provide all students with a high-quality education, this bill aims to integrate lessons on the history of migration, lived experiences, and contributions of a range of communities in the social studies model curriculum. 

CAIR-Ohio is a member of the Educating for Ohio’s Future campaign, which has been leading the efforts to introduce this important legislation. More information on the campaign can be found at www.educatingforohiosfuture.org 

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

CAIR-Ohio Co-Hosts Community Picnic to Commemorate Juneteenth

by CAIR Ohio in 2023, June, Recent News

(COLUMBUS, OH – 6/19/23) – Last Sunday, CAIR-Ohio joined the Black American Muslim Community Center Columbus (BAM CCC), Muslim American Society (MAS Columbus), and Amanah Outsiders to commemorate Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, which was established as a federal holiday in 2021, celebrating the freedom of enslaved Black Americans. 

On June 19, 1865, more than 250,000 enslaved Black people learned they were free after Union troops reach Galveston, Texas. This was two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.  

CAIR-Ohio joined community members at the Whetstone Park of Roses to celebrate the rich history of Black Americans, enjoy food, and discuss the importance of this holiday and how it came about. The fight for true liberation continues. Juneteenth, though pivotal, was not the ultimate liberation of Black people. It served as a reminder that progress often came too late, and the shackles of chattel slavery endured beyond its supposed end.  

While Juneteenth holds immense importance, let it not be an isolated celebration. Black Americans have a rich history rooted in true liberation efforts, deserving of collective recognition.  

Together, we can rebuild a land where freedom truly prevails—a legacy our descendants will inherit with pride.