(MINNEAPOLIS, MN, 11/20/23) — The Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Minnesota) today issued an urgent appeal to Governor Tim Walz and Commissioner Erin Campbell to immediately reverse the suspension of the Equity Justice Black Caucus (EJBC) by Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB). This suspension is an act of censorship which raises significant concerns about its Islamophobic implications within the state.
The EJBC has been pivotal in promoting dialogues on racial and social issues, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, within various Minnesota state agencies. Its suspension following a session intended to foster understanding of this complex issue has been viewed as a silencing tactic, undermining the voices of Muslim employees and others committed to peaceful and equitable discourse.
SEE ONLINE PETITION: Allow Equity Justice Black Caucus Employee Resource Group to Resume Its Activities
Jaylani Hussein, the Executive Director of CAIR-Minnesota, said:
“The decision to suspend the EJBC activities is not only counterproductive but also sets a dangerous precedent. In a state where we have seen a rise in hostilities against religious communities, such a move by our state leadership is alarming.
“We call for an immediate reversal of this decision and urge the governor and the commissioner to uphold the principles of free speech and inclusivity. Censoring voices under the guise of administrative action is unacceptable.”
CAIR-Minnesota is a chapter of America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. The mission of CAIR-Minnesota is to enhance the understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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CONTACT: Osman Ahmed, Director of Advocacy, CAIR-MN, (612) 459-0334, o-ahmed@cair.com; or Jaylani Hussein, Executive Director, CAIR-Minnesota, (612) 406-0070, jhussein@cair.com