Muslim civil rights group calls on public officials to end use of anti-Muslim rhetoric that can lead to discrimination and violence
The Florida chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Florida), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed the arrest of a Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) student accused of making violent threats targeting both Jewish and Muslim communities and expressing support for mass violence.
Law enforcement authorities arrested FGCU civil engineering student Joseph Baer, 21, after an investigation into online communications that “glorified mass shooters, promoted white supremacist ideology, displayed firearms, and advocated for violence against racial and religious minorities.”
In a statement, CAIR-Florida Communications Director Wilfredo Ruiz said:
“We welcome this arrest and commend law enforcement authorities for acting swiftly to address the alleged threats against both Jewish and Muslim communities. No one should have to live in fear because of their faith or identity.
“At a time when anti-Muslim and antisemitic incidents are rising nationwide, public officials and community leaders must reject rhetoric that demonizes religious minorities. Anti-Muslim hate speech, conspiracy theories, and fearmongering can contribute to an environment in which discrimination, harassment, and even violence become more likely.
“We stand in solidarity with all communities targeted by hate. Protecting public safety requires confronting all forms of bigotry and ensuring that those who threaten violence are held accountable.”
Ruiz also urged elected officials and community leaders to avoid language, actions, or policies that stigmatize entire religious communities and to instead promote mutual respect and understanding.
CAIR-Florida is the state’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil liberties, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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CONTACT: Wilfredo Ruiz, CAIR-Florida Communications Director, (305) 502-6749, wruiz@cair.com Chelsea Mandrigues, CAIR-Florida Communications Coordinator, (813) 705-5440, cmandrigues@cair.com