The Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MN) today condemned a vote by the Lino Lakes City Council to halt progress on the Madina Lakes project and vote to pass a moratorium.
During a work session last night, the Lino Lakes City Council voted four to one to halt the due process for the Madina Lakes project to be heard on its conceptual plan. The council decided to table and therefore reject the proposal, effectively stopping its progress.
“This decision by the Lino Lakes City Council represents a setback for fairness and inclusivity,” said Osman Ahmed, Director of Advocacy at CAIR-MN. “The Madina Lakes project is an opportunity to foster diversity and meet the growing needs of our community. We are deeply disappointed by this vote, which undermines due process and the principles of equitable governance.”
“CAIR-MN remains committed to defending the rights of American Muslims and ensuring their voices are heard in issues like this,” added Ahmed. “We urge the Lino Lakes City Council to reconsider its decision and uphold principles of fairness and nondiscrimination.”
The Madina Lakes project aimed to provide much-needed facilities for the community, including a mosque, houses and commercial beneficials to the Lino Lakes community. Despite efforts to engage constructively with the city and address concerns raised during public hearings, the council’s decision to halt the process is viewed by many as discriminatory and Islamophobic as well as departure from established procedures.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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CONTACT: CAIR-MN Director of Advocacy Osman Ahmed 612-459-0334, o-ahmed@cair.com or CAIR-Minnesota Executive Director Jaylani Hussein, 612-406-0070, jhussein@cair.com