(MINNEAPOLIS, MN, 4/10/23) – The Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Minnesota) today called on law enforcement authorities to investigate vandalism targeting Ummatul Islam Mosque in Minneapolis., Minn., as a possible hate crime.
Video: Vandalism Targeting Minneapolis Mosque
Photos of Vandalism
https://www.cair.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/MplsVandalism.png
On the early morning of Monday April 10, worshipers observed a man attempting to enter the building. The video showed the man use a large object to destroy several windows and the main door, causing damages estimated to be over $5000.
In a statement, CAIR-Minnesota Executive Director Jaylani Hussein said:
“This act of vandalism has caused fear and concern among worshipers, particularly during the month of Ramadan when Muslims gather daily for nightly prayers.
“We urge law enforcement authorities to investigate a possible bias motive for this vandalism at the Ummatul Islam Mosque. In response to this and other incidents nationwide, CAIR-Minnesota has sent a safety alert to mosques across the state, advising them to increase their security protocols as a precaution.
“This recent attack has heightened our sense of insecurity and we urge all mosques to enhance their security protocols.”
He urged 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.”
On Tuesday, April 11, CAIR plans to release its annual civil rights report at a news conference in its Capitol Hill headquarters in Washington, D.C.
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 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-MN Executive Director Jaylani Hussein, 612-406-0070