The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Florida), the state’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization, today announced the filing of a lawsuit on behalf of Florida attorney Zohra Khorashi against Chartwell Law Offices.
Khorashi was allegedly terminated from her law firm in retaliation for making public social media posts criticizing the ongoing genocide in Gaza.
The complaint, filed in the Southern District of Florida (Case 1:26-cv-21610), asserts that the plaintiff’s termination was a direct violation of her rights, highlighting a disturbing trend of “Palestine exceptions” to free speech and professional security within the legal field.
Christopher C. Sharp, Esq., of Sharp Law Firm, P.A., and co-counsel for the plaintiff, stated:
“No professional should be forced to choose between their career and their conscience. Our legal system is built on the principle of standing up against injustice, yet my client was punished for doing exactly that in her private life. We have filed this suit to ensure that law firms are held accountable when they prioritize political silencing over the civil rights of their employees.”
Omar Saleh, Esq., CAIR-Florida lead attorney, stated:
“The termination of an attorney for speaking out against documented human rights atrocities is not just a workplace dispute; it is an attack on the fundamental right to advocate for justice. CAIR-Florida will not stand by while individuals are targeted and purged from their professions for acknowledging the humanity of Palestinians and condemning the violence in Gaza.”
See Copy of Complaint: ZOHRA KHORASHI, Plaintiff, vs. CHARTWELL LAW OFFICES, LLP, Defendant
The lawsuit seeks damages for lost wages, benefits, and emotional distress, as well as a declaration that the firm’s actions were discriminatory and retaliatory.
CAIR-Florida continues to monitor and challenge the increasing number of retaliatory actions taken against Florida professionals and students who express support for Palestinian human rights.
CAIR-Florida’s mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR – Florida es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
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CONTACT: Wilfredo A. Ruiz, CAIR-Florida Communications Director, wruiz@cair.com, (305) 502-6749