CAIR-Ohio Joins Press Conference Against Voter Suppression Law at the Statehouse 

by CAIR Ohio in 2023, March, Recent News

(COLUMBUS, OH, 04/06/23)– On Wednesday, March 29, CAIR-Ohio joined the VoteRiders Press Conference at the Ohio Statehouse against House Bill (HB) 458, which was signed into law in January by Gov. DeWine. HB 458 is a law that implements new voting initiatives that impact Ohio’s most vulnerable and underrepresented communities. 

HB 458 takes effect this week requiring Ohioans to present a state-issued photo ID to vote, whether during early voting or on Election Day. This new law will apply to voters participating in local and county elections taking place this year. In addition to the ID requirements, the new law also limits early voting hours and restricts access to absentee ballots, further limiting the ability of Ohioans to participate in the democratic process. 

Ohio’s new ID laws are part of a larger trend of voter suppression efforts across the country that disproportionately impact communities of color, low-income individuals, and other marginalized groups. “These laws undermine the fundamental principles of democracy and threaten to disenfranchise millions of eligible voters,” said CAIR-Ohio Intern Khalid Dada. 

View the full press conference here.  

Learn more about Ohio’s new voter ID requirements here and view our Voter Guide for help voting. 

CAIR-Ohio Condemns Violence Against Worshippers at Al-Aqsa Mosque

by CAIR-OHIO in 2023, April, Recent News

(COLUMBUS, OH – 4/5/23) – The Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) strongly condemns the recent violent attacks on Palestinian worshippers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. According to reports, Israeli occupying forces stormed the mosque during prayer and assaulted worshippers, resulting in dozens of injuries. 

SEE: Israeli forces attack worshippers in violent Al-Aqsa Mosque raid 

As an organization dedicated to combating Islamophobia and protecting the civil liberties of Muslims, CAIR-Ohio stands in solidarity with the Palestinian people and condemns the violent abuse against innocent worshippers.  

In a statement, CAIR-Ohio, Columbus & Cincinnati Executive Director Amina Barhumi said: 

“We are outraged by the brutal attack on Palestinian worshippers at Al-Aqsa Mosque, which is especially egregious considering it is the holiest month for Muslims. This is a blatant violation of their fundamental right to practice their religion freely and without fear. The Israeli government’s systematic oppression of Palestinians, including the use of violence against innocent civilians, is a form of institutionalized Islamophobia that must be addressed by the international community.” 

Following the initial attack, Israel continued its assault on the Gaza Strip, with airstrikes targeting civilian areas and causing widespread destruction and loss of life. CAIR-Ohio condemns these acts of aggression against innocent Palestinians and calls for an immediate end to the violence. 

SEE: Israel attacks Gaza Strip, Al-Aqsa Mosque 

CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland Interim Executive Director Faten Odeh added, “We urge the US government to take immediate action to address this grave injustice and to defend the human rights of Palestinians and to pass the ‘Combating International Islamophobia Act’, which would track these incidents globally. We also call on all people of conscience to speak out against this violence and to support efforts to end the illegal Israeli occupation.” 

CAIR-Ohio joins the global community in demanding that Israel immediately ceases its violent attacks on Palestinian worshippers and respect the human rights of all Palestinians and the holy site of Al-Aqsa, especially during this holy month of Ramadan. 

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.  

END 

CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio, Columbus & Cincinnati Executive Director Amina Barhumi, abarhumi@cair.com, 614-763-6557; CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland Interim Executive Director Faten Odeh, fodeh@cair.com, 216-830-2247 

Deadline Extended for 2023 SIDP Applications

by CAIR-OHIO in 2023, March, Recent News

CAIR-Ohio’s 2023 Summer Internship Development Program applications are now due by Sunday, April 9th! A few spots left for applicants in Columbus.

If you’re interested in joining our four-week training intensive designed to jump-start college students’ skills and empower them to become civically engaged community members, apply here.

Interns will develop professional skills, gain insight into the societal impact of public service, create important community connections, and obtain work experience to help advance their future academic and professional endeavors.

Interns will work across all departments and gain hands-on experience in the following areas:

  • Research & Policy – Interns will provide support in developing research projects that are aligned with the community’s needs and priorities, and in evidence-based policymaking and advocacy efforts aimed at improving the lives of Muslims in Ohio.
  • Outreach & Government Affairs – Interns will support in organizing and mobilizing Muslims around campaigns and in compiling and designing educational resources to help in empowering the Muslim community.
  • Communications & Media – Interns will work closely with the Communications & Media Team to assist in communication-related content and processes, including crafting compelling press releases, organizing and supporting press conferences, and assisting with content creation.
  • Legal & Civil Rights – Interns will work closely with the Legal & Civil Rights Team to assist in research and case preparation, organize oral arguments and participate in simulated legal proceedings, and participate in community outreach and education efforts.

New Voter ID Requirements in Ohio

by CAIR-OHIO in 2023, March, Recent News

Governor DeWine signed HB 458 into law in January 2023, which brings about significant changes to Ohio’s election process. Unfortunately, Ohio voters have lost some essential voting freedoms as a result.

Previously, Ohioans had the freedom to vote using alternative forms of identification, such as a utility bill, government document, or paycheck. However, with the new law in effect, voters now have only two options: vote in person with photo ID required or vote by mail without photo ID required.

Learn more here.

What does Ohio’s new voting law do?
The new anti-voter law:

  • Forces in-person voters to use an unexpired photo ID to vote, during the early voting period, or on Election Day. There are only four acceptable photo IDs. They are an Ohio driver’s license, an Ohio-issued state identification card, a U.S. or state military ID, or passport.
  • Limits drop boxes to one location per county that are open 24/7 during early voting. 
  • Shortens the absentee ballot request window; ballots now must be requested a full week before Election Day (by 5pm 7 days before Election Day) as opposed to the previous Saturday by noon.
  • Adds non-citizen designation on driver’s license and state ID cards.
  • Eliminates the last day of early voting, the Monday before Election Day.
  • Mandates that absentee ballots must be received by County Board of Elections four days after Election Day, as opposed to ten days.
  • Changes curbside voting rules so that only those with a physical disability or those physically unable to enter a polling location are eligible for this option.
  • Shortens the window to cure provisional ballots from seven days to four days.

View our Voter Guide for more information on voting in the upcoming special election. Deadline to register to vote or update your registration is April 3.

CAIR-Ohio Presents at NKU Law School  

by CAIR Ohio in 2023, March, Recent News

(CINCINNATI, OH, 03/31/23)– On Tuesday, March 21, CAIR-Ohio conducted an informational session on Islam, religious accommodations, and employment law at the Northern Kentucky University Chase College of Law.  

CAIR-Ohio was invited to speak to law students taking a course called “Shedding Shackles”, which is based upon the life and work of the law school’s namesake, Salmon P. Chase. The course reviews Chase’s legacy as the first pro bono lawyer and his history representing enslaved persons who attempted to escape to freedom in southern Ohio.  

The course also draws parallels to various concepts of freedom today and the role lawyers play in securing freedom in today’s society. As part of the curriculum, the course professor, Judge Jennifer Kinsley invited CAIR-Ohio to speak about the employment laws and the religious accommodations resources CAIR-Ohio provides.  

CAIR-Ohio Outreach Director Victoria Hickcox began the presentation by introducing CAIR-Ohio’s work, the basics of Islamic practices, and opened the floor for questions on Islam and addressed common misconceptions about Muslims.  

CAIR-Ohio Deputy & Legal Director Lina Abbaoui continued the presentation with a discussion on religious accommodations and employment law, where she presented a popular religious discrimination case, the EEOC v. Abercrombie & Fitch, and closed off by reviewing relevant case studies with the students.  

Interested in having CAIR-Ohio speak at your school or organization? Fill out our speaker request form. 

Celebrating Women’s History Month and Muslim Women’s Day!

by CAIR-OHIO in 2023, March, Recent News

Happy Muslim Women’s Day! As we celebrate Women’s History Month, CAIR-Ohio is honored to recognize and celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of Muslim women in our local communities. These women are breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes in a variety of fields, including healthcare, education, social justice, and beyond. 

Their tireless efforts and dedication to their work are truly inspiring and have a profound impact on the lives of those around them. They are role models, leaders, and change-makers, and their unwavering dedication to their work is truly commendable. Let us continue to support and uplift these women as they continue to make a profound impact on our community and in their fields.

Learn more about these amazing Muslim women and their work:

CAIR-Ohio Hosts Islam 101 Session for Columbus Students  

by CAIR Ohio in Recent News, Uncategorized

(COLUMBUS, OH, 03/23/23)– On Thursday, March 16, CAIR-Ohio collaborated with the Noor Islamic Cultural Center (NICC) in hosting an Islam 101 information session for the Columbus School for Girls.  

CAIR-Ohio Community Relations Assistant Shireen Shaaban organized and lead an informative discussion on Islam with students from the Columbus School for Girls as part of a religious diversity learning objective. Throughout the presentation, Shaaban discussed the fundamentals of Islam and what it means to be a Muslim, which included the five pillars of Islam, the significance of Ramadan, the experiences that come with wearing Hijab in America, and much more. Towards the end of the session, students had the opportunity to ask questions, which in turn helped them understand and resonate more with the material they had learned.  

Additionally, Shaaban and Directors at NICC walked the students and teachers through a tour of the masjid, highlighting what each space is utilized for and the meaning behind the architecture of the building. 

Interested in having CAIR-Ohio present to your school? Contact CAIR-Ohio Outreach Director Victoria Hickcox: vhickcox@cair.com | 513.906.5728. 

CAIR-Ohio Speaks on Parent Advocacy Panel at Youth Conference 

by CAIR Ohio in 2023, March, Recent News

(COLUMBUS, OH, 03/23/23)– On Saturday, March 18, CAIR-Ohio Executive Director Amina Barhumi participated in a “Parent Advocacy in Schools” panel hosted by the Noor Islamic Cultural Center’s (NICC) MYImpact Youth Committee.  

The MYImpact (Muslim Youth Impact) Committee is a leadership development initiative that serves the NICC youth community by organizing lectures, awareness campaigns, activities, and the annual NICC Youth Conference. All of which aims to develop God-consciousness and nurture upright Muslim youth.  

Barhumi was joined by Lila Alsibai and Sumaya Hamadmad, the founding members of the Muslim Parents and Educators for Understanding, Barhumi opened the session with an introduction to advocacy and the process CAIR-Ohio uses as a guideline when advocating for important policies and causes. 

Alsibai and Hamadmad continued the discussion by sharing the opportunities their group has provided over the years, which includes the historical effort in getting the Hilliard City School District to implement days off for the Eid al-Fitr holiday. They also provide programming around cultural competency for schools, where they address the challenges of being Muslim and how teachers can support their Muslim students.  

The panelists also highlighted the importance of small interactions of being involved in educational environments, as they help lead to the ability to make bigger changes.  

“CAIR-Ohio supports educator, student, parent-volunteer led efforts to create a culturally responsive school environment for Muslim students.” said Barhumi.  

Interested in CAIR-Ohio speaking at your event? Fill out our speaker request form. 

Make Your Vote Count: Confirm Your Voter Registration is Active Today

by CAIR-OHIO in 2023, March, Recent News

Ohio recently purged 124,158 voters from its voter rolls, which is one of the largest voter purges in recent years. 

Ohio voters can check if they were affected by the purge by visiting the Ohio Secretary of State’s website. Voters can enter their name, county, and date of birth to check their voter registration status. If a voter has been removed from the voter rolls, they will need to re-register to vote before the next election. The deadline to register for Ohio’s next election is April 2, 2023. View our voter guide for more information. 

It’s important to note that voter purges can affect any registered voter who hasn’t voted in consecutive elections, and certain groups are more likely to be impacted. Low-income individuals, people of color, and young voters are among those who may be more vulnerable to purges because they may move more frequently, which can result in outdated voter registration information. Additionally, these groups may face other barriers to voting, such as lack of access to transportation or difficulty obtaining required identification, which can further complicate the process of re-registering to vote after being purged from the rolls. 

Questions about voting? Contact CAIR-Ohio Outreach Director Victoria Hickcox: vhickcox@cair.com | 513.906.5728. 

CAIR-Ohio Joins American Muslims for Palestine’s National Israeli Date Boycott Campaign

by CAIR-OHIO in 2023, March, Recent News

(COLUMBUS, OH 3/20/23) – CAIR-Ohio is calling on all Americans to join American Muslims for Palestine’s (AMP) campaign this Ramadan and beyond to boycott Israeli dates, many of which are grown and packaged in illegal Israeli settlements on Palestinian land.   

AMP’s nationwide boycott of dates produced in Israeli settlements first launched in Ramadan 2012 by urging grocery store owners to remove Israeli dates from their shelves. The government of Israel purposefully does not distinguish whether dates sold overseas were grown in Israel or illegally occupied territories. Since then, AMP has distributed tens of thousands of postcards and brochures to stores, mosques, and communities nationwide.  

With Ramadan beginning this week, CAIR-Ohio is standing in solidarity with AMP and other advocacy groups for the date boycott campaign and is urging all Americans who oppose illegal profiteering from stolen Palestinian land to take action today.   

TAKE ACTION: 

1. Sign AMP’s petition to join in solidarity with this boycott of Israeli dates to support justice for the Palestinian people.    

2. Inspect date packages for indication of origin. If the origin is not listed or is vague, Google the distributor or packer to find out their true origin.  

What else can you do?   

1. Share AMP’s boycott campaign website with your family and friends, and ask them to sign their pledge and join in solidarity with this boycott of Israeli dates to support justice for the Palestinian people.   

2. Download the campaign posters below. Select your preferred language(s), print and share with your local stores.   

 
3. Follow CAIR and AMP on social media (Facebook, Twitter & Instagram) and share our campaign posts using the hashtag #BoycottIsraeliDates.   

4. Find alternative date companies that you can buy from! Palestinian dates are often labeled “Grown in Palestine,” and there are a plethora of Algerian, Tunisian, Emirati, and Californian varieties to choose from.    

Why this campaign?  

Dates are considered the “black gold” of Palestine. They are an important natural product of Palestine’s pure and blessed land. With the holy month of Ramadan knocking on the doors, this “black gold” is especially sacred due to the Muslim ritual of breaking fasts with them. But the Israeli colonial enterprise has produced its own industry of dates in a manner that is much more sinister.   

Israeli date farms profit off of theft and abuse. They are predominantly grown in illegal Israeli settlements and are grown using stolen natural resources like water. Palestinian laborers, who are often forced by economic necessity to work in these illegal settlements, are forced to work in grueling physical conditions. Israeli labor laws are scarcely enforced when it pertains to Palestinian workers, leaving these Palestinians underpaid and un-compensated for their back-breaking work.    

American Muslims for Palestine firmly believes that educating the American public is key to bringing about change in the Middle East.