The San Francisco Bay Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the recent Islamophobic tactics employed in the campaign for State Assembly, District 26, covering Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Cupertino, and portions of San Jose.
A recently-discovered document circulating in Sacramento falsely associates the Muslim faith with negative stereotypes, disseminating misinformation and racist tropes in a blatant act of Islamophobia.
In a statement, CAIR-SFBA Executive Director Zahra Billoo, said:
“As an organization committed to promoting understanding and protecting the civil rights of all individuals, CAIR-SFBA firmly condemns the use of Islamophobic narratives that sow division and undermine mutual respect.
“The spread of Islamophobia, whether in public discussions, social media, or any other platform, is alarming and counterproductive to the values of diversity and inclusivity that define our communities. Misinformation and stereotypes targeting any faith group only serve to deepen divides and foster unwarranted suspicion.”
CAIR-SFBA reiterates its commitment to combating bigotry, racism, and hate in all its forms and encourages those experiencing acts of aggression, racism, and Islamophobia to contact its Civil Rights department at 408.986.9874.
NOTE: As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, CAIR does not endorse or oppose candidates for office, and makes no claims as to the favorability of one candidate being elected over another.
CAIR-SFBA is an office of CAIR, America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
END
CONTACT: CAIR-SFBA Communications Manager Lorrie Adam, ladam@cair.com, 408.986.9874