The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR Maryland), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today called for the immediate release of bodycam video following a police-involved shooting of a well-known Baltimore “arabber,” Bilal Abdullah Jr.
[NOTE: “Arabbers,” a Baltimore tradition, are street vendors selling fruits and vegetables from horse-drawn carts. The term “arabber” is reportedly derived from the 19th century slang term “street Arabs.”]
Police first said Abdullah fired at them during an incident on June 17, but according to WMAR: “In a report released by the Maryland Office of the Attorney General based on its preliminary investigation, the language used to describe the first gunshot was softened and made more vague.”
Along with the public release of the bodycam video, the civil rights group is calling for a transparent, independent investigation into the circumstances that led Abdullah’s death.
In a statement, CAIR Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry said:
“We offer our condolences to Mr. Abdullah’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. Bilal Abdullah Jr. was a beloved community member known for his dedication to preserving Baltimore’s rich tradition of arabbing. Mr. Abdullah was a familiar face to many and will be missed by those who knew him.
“This tragedy is a significant loss. The community deserves answers. We call on law enforcement authorities to immediately release the police bodycam video recorded during this disturbing incident. We also call for an independent investigation conducted by an impartial body so that trust can be restored between law enforcement authorities and the communities they serve.”
Washington, D.C., based CAIR added that it will continue to monitor this case.
CAIR is 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.
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CONTACT: CAIR Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry, zchaudry@cair.com, 410-971-6062;
CAIR Maryland Outreach Coordinator Kimberly Syuardi, ksyuardi@cair.com, 202-850-9293