The Pittsburgh chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Pittsburgh), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today said a Hopewell Township Police Department community alert that described individuals as “Middle Eastern-looking with pronounced beards” – despite acknowledging that no crime had occurred – may promote discrimination targeting Muslims, Arabs and those perceived to be Middle Eastern.
The alert, sent to local residents, reported two men walking near churches and included vague, appearance-based descriptions. CAIR-Pittsburgh is concerned that the alert reinforced harmful stereotypes and needlessly stoked fear in the community. Community members who raised objections on the department’s Facebook page were met with dismissive responses rather than genuine engagement.
SEE: Problematic Pennsylvania Cops Send Islamophobic Letter to Residents
SEE: Hopewell Police Facebook Post (via public comments)
In a statement, CAIR-Pittsburgh Executive Director Christine Mohamed said:
“It’s troubling to see a public alert focus on appearance and perceived ethnicity, especially when no crime occurred. Descriptions like ‘Middle Eastern-looking with pronounced beards’ reinforce harmful stereotypes and promotes discrimination. Law enforcement should investigate before issuing warnings that may unfairly target innocent people. Public trust depends on thoughtful, responsible communication.”
CAIR-Pittsburgh urges the Hopewell Township Police Department and law enforcement agencies statewide to refrain from using vague or racially charged descriptors in public alerts unless they are directly relevant to a specific investigation. Effective public safety communication must be rooted in facts, not fear.
Washington, D.C., based CAIR’s 2025 Civil Rights Report, “Unconstitutional Crackdowns,” reveals that Islamophobia continues to be at an all-time high across the country. CAIR said viewpoint discrimination against those speaking out against genocide and apartheid was a key factor in many cases.
The civil rights organization offers a booklet, “A Law Enforcement Official’s Guide to The Muslim Community,” designed to assist law enforcement officials in forming and implementing policies to create a culturally aware environment and cooperative relationship between American Muslims and law enforcement agencies.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR 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: CAIR Pittsburgh Executive Director Christine Mohamed, 412-606-3601, cmohamed@cair.com