(MINNEAPOLIS, MN, 4/30/23) – The Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MN) today welcomed the arrest of the suspect allegedly involved in arson attacks targeting two mosques in Minneapolis.
SEE: Arrest made in suspected Minneapolis mosque arsons
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2023/04/30/arrest-made-in-suspected-minneapolis-mosque-arsons
In a statement, CAIR-MN Executive Director Jaylani Hussein said:
“We welcome the arrest of the arson suspect and express gratitude to law enforcement for their swift action. This arrest brings some relief to our community, which has been on edge for the past week. We hope to learn more about the suspect’s motivations and any potential accomplices who may have incited these attacks on our houses of worship.”
Yesterday, CAIR-MNjoined leaders and members of the Muslim community for a solidarity event for Minneapolis mosques targeted by arson.
Video: CAIR-MN Joins Community Solidarity Event for Minneapolis Mosques Following Arson Attacks
Last week, CAIR-MN held a news conference with Minnesota Muslim leaders to respond to arson attacks targeting the two mosques.
Video: CAIR-MN Calls for Bias Crime Probe in Back-to-Back Mosque Arsons
Masjid Al Rahma (Mercy Mosque) was damaged by fire, with the flames found on the third floor. Firefighters evacuated several people, including children, and no one was injured. The cause of the fire is still being investigated.
In a separate incident, a man reportedly attempted to set another Mall 24 Mosque in Minneapolis on fire using gasoline. Police are searching for the suspect, and it is unknown whether the two incidents are related.
Earlier this month, CAIR-MN called to for an investigation vandalism targeting Ummatul Islam Mosque in Minneapolis., Minn., as a possible hate crime.
SEE: Minnesota Mosques Vandalized, Robbed Amid Increase in Reported Hate Crimes
CAIR-MN is urging the local Muslim community and Islamic institutions nationwide to take extra security precautions by using advice offered in CAIR’s booklet, “Best Practices for Mosque and Community Safety.”
Last year, CAIR released a report, titled “Still Suspect: The Impact of Structural Islamophobia,” documenting more than 6,720 complaints to CAIR offices nationwide involving a range of issues including immigration and travel, workplace discrimination, denial of public accommodations, law enforcement and government overreach, hate and bias incidents, incarceree rights, school incidents, anti-BDS/free speech, among other reported issues.
CAIR-MN’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR-MN es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
END
CONTACT: CAIR-MN Executive Director Jaylani Hussein, 612-406-0070, jhussein@cair.com