The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today expressed outrage over the attempted sexual assault of a Muslim woman in Central Park.
A 45-year-old Muslim woman was attacked in broad daylight while sitting on a bench in Central Park near East 109th Street. Lateef Caldwell, 30, allegedly pinned the victim down, attempted to forcibly remove her clothing, including her full body hijab, before bystanders intervened and stopped the assault.
SEE: Man accused of trying to rape Muslim woman on Central Park bench
The suspect, who was later arrested and charged with attempted rape and related offenses, was reportedly on parole following a prior sexual assault conviction.
In a statement, CAIR-NY Executive Director Afaf Nasher, Esq., said:
“This horrific attack is deeply alarming, not only because of its brutality, but because it targeted a woman in a public space in broad daylight. We thank the bystanders who intervened and the NYPD for the swift arrest. We also pray for healing from the frightening trauma our Muslim sister experienced.”
CAIR-NY’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR-NY es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
Subscribe to CAIR-NY’s Email List
You can help contribute to CAIR’s work of defending civil rights and empowering American Muslims across the country by making a one-time contribution or becoming a monthly donor. Supporters like you make CAIR’s advocacy work possible and defeating Islamophobia an achievable goal. Click here to donate to CAIR.
END
CONTACT
Afaf Nasher, Esq. CAIR-NY Executive Director, ANasher@cair.com
CAIR-NY Communications Team, comms@ny.cair.com