The Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MN), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned a reported assault on worshipers outside a Catholic church in Minneapolis and called for increased police protection and community vigilance to safeguard all houses of worship.
According to police reports, would-be robbers ambushed several churchgoers outside a Catholic church in south Minneapolis.
SEE: Would-be robbers again stage ambush outside Catholic church in Minneapolis, police say – Star Tribune
In a statement, CAIR-MN Executive Director Jaylani Hussein said:
“We strongly condemn this disturbing assault on individuals attending worship services and express our solidarity with the Minneapolis Catholic community. No one should ever fear for their safety while practicing their faith. We urge law enforcement to thoroughly investigate this crime and to provide increased protection for all houses of worship across Minnesota.
“These repeated attacks and threats – whether against a church, synagogue, or mosque – underscore the urgent need for stronger community partnerships and proactive safety measures. We encourage all religious and community leaders to review and strengthen their security protocols to protect their congregations.”
Last month, CAIR-MN condemned vandalism targeting a Minneapolis synagogue.
Also last month, CAIR-MN repeated its call for an investigation of a possible bias motive for a second arson attempt at Al Hikma Mosque in Minneapolis.
CAIR-MN is urging community leaders to increase security protocols for religious institutions of all faiths.
Washington, D.C., based CAIR offers a “Best Practices for Mosque and Community Safety” booklet to help keep religious facilities safe. The advice in the booklet is applicable to all houses of worship.
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-MN is the state’s leading Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization. Its mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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CONTACTS: Jaylani Hussein, Executive Director, CAIR-MN, 612-406-0070, jhussein@cair.com; Suleiman Adan, Deputy Director, CAIR-MN, 612-408-7183, sadan@cair.com