The Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Minnesota) today called on law enforcement authorities to investigate a possible bias motive for a series of vandalism attacks targeting the newly established Tibyan Center in St. Anthony.
Over the past two months, the center has been the target of seven separate incidents of vandalism and break-ins, causing extensive damage estimated to exceed $20,000. The Tibyan Center experienced the attacks since it announced plans to open a youth-focused center and mosque in May.
On May 29, the building was broken into, fire extinguishers were sprayed and computers and other items were stolen. Following this, on June 15, a window was broken, and on June 27, June 29, and June 30, further break-ins occurred.
On July 2, another break-in was reported, and on July 7, an attempted break-in was stopped by a member of the center. The latest incident on July 16 involved the breaking of windows and additional vandalism. Security cameras captured a group of white males, some masked and others unmasked, entering the building, and causing significant damage.
“CAIR-Minnesota is deeply concerned by these repeated attacks, particularly given the rise in attacks on Minnesota mosques and centers” said Jaylani Hussein, executive director of CAIR-Minnesota. “These attacks have shaken our community, and many members who were excited about the opportunity the new center represents are now feeling fearful and vulnerable. We believe these attacks may be part of a broader effort to intimidate and harm Muslim communities and we call on law enforcement and the community to help in bringing these perpetrators into custody.”
CAIR-Minnesota is calling on both local authorities and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to thoroughly investigate a possible bias motive for these attacks and bring those responsible to justice. The organization is also seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the individuals involved in these crimes.
The Tibyan Center, located at 2401 Lowery Avenue, St. Anthony, is yet to open and is currently in the process of finalizing its establishment with the city. The center is expected to open in late summer. Despite the ongoing attacks, the community remains hopeful and resilient.
Anyone with information about the vandalism incidents is urged to contact CAIR-Minnesota, the St. Anthony Police Department at 612-782-3350, or local law enforcement immediately.
About CAIR-Minnesota
The Council on American-Islamic Relations, Minnesota (CAIR-MN) is the state’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
END
CONTACT: Osman Ahmed, Director of Advocacy, CAIR-MN, Tel: (612) 459-0334, Email: o-ahmed@cair.com Suleiman Adan, Deputy Director, CAIR-MN, (612) 406-7183, sadan@cair.com; Jaylani Hussein, Executive Director, CAIR-MN, Tel: (612) 406-0070, Email: jhussein@cair.com