The Austin chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Austin) today applauded the official listing of the Islamic Center of Brushy Creek (ICBC) as the first Muslim polling location in Williamson County that will be serving for the first time on the Nov. 5th election day.
“I have enjoyed my role in bridging the communication between the mosque and the election division, and I want to applaud Williamson County Election Division staff, especially the Field Supervisor Kristine Heimerman, for their enthusiasm in working with diverse local communities. I have seen an increasing interest in election among the Muslim community this year. CAIR-Austin wants to facilitate and encourage this positive change,” said Shaimaa Zayan, Operations Manager with CAIR-Austin. “A part of our mission is to empower American Muslims and increase their civic engagement,” she added.
“We are excited to serve the Cedar Park community, Muslims and non-Muslims. It is like giving back to our city. Our center was established in 2007, and we have regular visitors of 400 Muslim families living within a 10 miles radius of our facility. Our Muslim community is a part of the American fabric and our participation in the democratic process is essential,” said Rabia Shaik, an ICBC board member.
“For me, I am familiar with the process as this will be my third time to vote, but I know voting can be intimidating especially if you are doing it for the first time. ICBC is a safe and familiar place for our community. I believe this will encourage more Muslim voters to come out. It is also exciting to share the space with Williamson County voters regardless of their religion or ethnicity,” said Abrar Eltilib, an ICBC community member and a mom of two children.
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: Shaimaa Zayan Operations Manager CAIR Austin, (512) 785-7105, shaimaa.zayan@cairtx.org