The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today called on VistaPrint and its parent company Cimpress PLC to explain why an online order for banners supporting Palestinian human rights was abruptly declined and refunded without any reason.
After submitting the “Free Palestine” and #CeasefireNow” banners for printing on December 24, CAIR received an email on December 27 that stated, “[W]e have made the decision not to print these materials.” No further explanation was offered.
The banners, bearing the logos of CAIR and a number of other interfaith organizations, were to be used during a Jan. 10 vigil and rally for the victims of Israel’s genocide in Gaza. The order has since been placed with a different vendor.
In a letter to VistaPrint, CAIR Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry wrote in part:
“As a client who has used VistaPrint for our printing needs in the past, we are dismayed and concerned by this news. Oftentimes, companies have guidelines in place to ensure responsible business practices. I am interested in understanding how VistaPrint navigates the balance between corporate policies and the diverse range of views held by its customers.
“VistaPrint bills itself as a reliable and customer-oriented service provider. I am seeking an explanation for your company’s refusal to print banners advocating for Palestinian human rights, as well as your policies and guidelines on denial of service for confirmed orders.”
Chaudry added, “Until this matter is resolved, our office will use different printers. We will not give our business to any vendors who do not reflect the basic values of free speech and sanctity of innocent life, including Palestinians.”
Earlier this week, CAIR welcomed a letter issued by the Montgomery County Education Association (MCEA) in support of teachers who were punished for their pro-Palestine views.
Washington, D.C., based CAIR recently released new civil rights data showing that it has received a “staggering” 2,171 complaints over the past 57 days amid an ongoing wave of anti-Muslim and anti-Palestinian hate.
CAIR also released a new paper on the state of Islamophobia leading up to and during the ongoing attacks by the far-right Israeli government against Palestinians in Gaza.
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.
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 Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry, zchaudry@cair.com, 410-971-6062