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Tag: Humanizing Immigration Policies

CAIR, CAIR-NY Call for Transparent Investigations into Death of Nearly-Blind Rohingya Refugee Abandoned by Border Patrol Agents

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, and its New York chapter (CAIR-NY) today called for the New York State Police to work with the Buffalo Police Department to thoroughly and transparently investigate the disappearance and subsequent death of a nearly-blind Rohingya refugee in Buffalo, New York, […]

CAIR Md. Applauds Maryland Attorney General’s Lawsuit to Stop Unlawful ICE Detention Facility

The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today welcomed the announcement that Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown has filed a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s plans to convert a warehouse in Washington County into a large immigration detention facility without required environmental review, public input, or state consultation.   SEE: Attorney General […]

CAIR Welcomes Judge’s Order Blocking Deportation of Anti-Genocide Columbia Student Mohsen Mahdawi

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed an immigration judge’s order blocking the deportation of Mohsen Mahdawi, a permanent United States resident from the illegally-occupied West Bank who led protests against Israel’s genocide in Gaza at Columbia University. Washington, D.C.-based CAIR had previously condemned Mahdawi’s […]

CAIR-NJ Joins Pax Christi to Call for the Immediate Release of Leqaa Kordia, and Recognize the Beginning of Ramadan and Lent

The New Jersey Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization today joined Pax Christi, AFSC, and Justice for All outside the Elizabeth Detention Center to call for the release of Leqaa Kordia and all those who are unjustly held in detention centers across the United States. This event also recognized the beginning of Ramadan and Lent, two distinct and important celebrations in Muslim and Christian religious […]

BREAKING: CAIR-MN Welcomes End to ICE Siege of Minneapolis as ‘Community Victory,’ Warns of Lasting Harm and Ongoing Risks

The Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MN) today welcomed the announced end of the ICE siege of Minneapolis as a “hard-fought community victory,” while warning that the impacts of the operation will continue to be felt by families and communities across the state. MEDIA ADVISORY: CAIR-MN will hold a news conference today to respond to […]

CAIR-NJ Calls On Delaney Hall ICE Detention Facility to Make Ramadan Accommodations 

The New Jersey Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, calls on Delaney Hall in Newark, New Jersey to prepare accommodations for its Muslim detainees ahead of the holy month of Ramadan.   CAIR-NJ also welcomed the recent release of a detainee earlier this month. This detainee was actively working through […]

CAIR Maryland Welcomes Passage of Howard County Legislation Protecting Immigrant Communities

The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today welcomed the Howard County Council’s passage of emergency legislation aimed at protecting immigrant families and preventing the establishment of privately operated immigration detention centers within the county. SEE: Council passes 2 bills aimed at adding guidance for ICE action across Howard County The Howard County Council approved […]

CAIR-MN, Civil Rights Partners to Call for Accountability for the Killings of Renee Good, Alex Pretti After ICE Drawdown

On Thursday, Feb. 5, CAIR-Minnesota and other civil rights organizations, faith leaders, and community groups will hold a press conference in response to the drawdown of federal enforcement personnel by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following public resistance, and the continued lack of criminal prosecution for the killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti during federal immigration enforcement […]

CAIR Maryland Welcomes Passage of Legislation to End All Local ICE Enforcement Agreements, Calls on Governor to Sign into Law

The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today welcomed the Maryland General Assembly’s passage of legislation prohibiting local governments and law enforcement agencies from entering or continuing cooperative enforcement agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the federal 287(g) program. SEE: Maryland ICE-related bills pass, chambers to reconcile legislation The legislation, […]

CAIR-MN Says Limited ICE Drawdown is a Result of Public Resistance, Calls for Accountability

The Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MN), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today said the announcement by federal immigration officials of a limited drawdown of ICE agents from Minnesota is a direct result of sustained public resistance and renewed community organizing against unconstitutional enforcement practices. CAIR-MN emphasized […]

TODAY – Community Groups to Rally Against ICE Presence Ahead of Super Bowl (11:30 a.m.)

At 11:30 a.m. today, community organizations, unions, and immigrant advocacy groups with the South Bay Super Bowl Coalition will gather at Cesar Chavez Plaza for an “ICE Out of the Bay” Rally, coinciding with the opening day of official Super Bowl festivities.  The rally highlights community opposition to increased Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) presence in […]

CAIR Welcomes Asylum for Chinese National Who Exposed Human Rights Abuses Against Uyghur Muslims

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed an immigration judge’s decision to grant asylum to a Chinese national who exposed the Chinese government’s human rights abuses against Uyghur Muslims in that nation.  Guan Heng, 38, applied for asylum after arriving in the U.S. illegally in […]

CAIR-SFBA Applauds Alameda County’s Unanimous Vote Establishing ‘ICE-Free Zones’ 

The San Francisco Bay Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed the unanimous vote by the Alameda County Board of Supervisors to adopt a critical “ICE-Free Zones” policy that prohibits the use of county-owned property for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity, along with a countywide immigration enforcement response […]

CAIR Condemns Inhumane Conditions at Baltimore ICE Holding Facility Amid Reports of New Facility Opening in Hagerstown; Calls for Immediate Federal and Local Action

The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today strongly condemned the disturbing conditions revealed in multiple recent videos and reports showing overcrowded, degrading, and inhumane treatment of immigrants held in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody in Baltimore. SEE: Viral video provides rare […]

CAIR Endorses Call for Nationwide Strike on Jan. 30 to Protest ICE Crimes

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today endorsed the call for a nationwide strike on January 30 to protest the killings of Alex Pretti, Renee Good, and others by ICE agents, as well as the agency’s violent sieges of numerous cities. The strike has been endorsed by hundreds […]

CAIR-SFBA Urges Immediate Passage of ‘ICE-Free Zones’ in Alameda County

The San Francisco Bay Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, is urgently calling on the Alameda County Board of Supervisors (BOS) to adopt agenda item 51 at today’s BOS meeting. The item includes two critical measures led by Supervisor Nikki Fortunato-Bas: a countywide immigration enforcement response plan and an “ICE-Free Zones” […]

CAIR ACTION ALERT: Tell the Senate to Vote NO on ICE Funding

Join the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) in urging your Senators to VOTE NO on new funding for ICE after the murder of another U.S. citizen, Alex Pretti, the earlier murder of Renée Good, and a pattern of violent, militarized federal immigration operations that have terrorized communities. These are not isolated incidents. They are the predictable result of an […]

CAIR- Philadelphia, Immigrant Advocates to Hold Interfaith Rally at Gov. Josh Shapiro’s Book Tour Stop to Demand End to PA–ICE Collaboration

The Philadelphia chapter of Council on American- Islamic Relations (CAIR-Philadelphia) will join allied immigrant rights leaders and community members across the Parkway Central Library at the Shakespeare Memorial on Saturday, January 24 at 2 p.m. to rally at Governor Josh Shapiro’s Philadelphia stop on his national book tour. The rally comes after months of advocacy urging Governor Shapiro to use […]

CAIR-NJ Expresses Disappointment Over Gov. Murphy’s Pocket Veto of Immigrant Protections, Urges Gov. Sherrill to Advance Safeguards  

The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, expressed deep disappointment with outgoing Governor Phil Murphy on his final day in office for enacting only one of the three bills included in the Immigrant Protections Package.  While Governor Murphy signed […]

CAIR-WA Celebrates Palestinian Asylum Seeker’s Bond Release from ICE Detention 

The Washington state chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-WA), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today celebrates the release of a Palestinian asylum seeker from immigration detention, decided in a bond hearing yesterday.  On December 26, 2025, a Palestinian asylum seeker was abducted by ICE in Auburn. He was […]

CAIR, CAIR-MN Call End of Somali TPS ‘Latest Bigoted Attack on Somali Community’

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and CAIR-Minnesota (CAIR-MN) today expressed opposition to the Trump administration’s decision to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somali nationals and require them to “leave the country by March 17.” [NOTE: Today, CAIR-MN, alongside community leaders and legal advocates, held a press conference to release new community guidance for individuals holding I-94 immigration status. CAIR […]

CAIR-MN to Issue New Guidelines for Responding to Escalation and Targeting of Lawful Residents

On Tuesday, January 13, the Minnesota chapter for the Council on American-Islamic Relations Minnesota (CAIR-MN), alongside community leaders and legal advocates, will hold a press conference to release new community guidance for individuals holding I-94 immigration status. The guidance is being issued in response to escalation and targeting of lawful residents and growing reports that individuals […]

CAIR Md. Congratulates Grassroots Activists on Victory Ending Avelo Airlines’ ICE Contract

The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today congratulated grassroots organizers and advocates, including the Baltimore Rapid Response Network, whose sustained advocacy helped secure Avelo Airlines’ announcement that it is ending its contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on the same day that an ICE agent fatally shot a legal […]

CAIR-MN, Community Leaders to Respond to ICE-Involved Fatal Shooting in Minneapolis

The Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MN) a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, will hold a noon news conference with community leaders to respond to an ICE-involved fatal shooting in Minneapolis. WHEN: Today, January 7, 12 p.m. WHERE: Near the scene of the shooting at 34th Street […]

CAIR-NJ Applauds Passage of Immigrant Protections Bill Package Out of Assembly Judiciary Committee, Encourages Assembly Appropriations Committee to Vote Favorably

The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today applauded the Assembly Judiciary Committee for advancing a critical package of immigrant protection bills—A6308, A6309, and A6310—during yesterday’s hearing.   The bill package is expected to be heard next by the Assembly Appropriations Committee on Thursday, January […]

CAIR Welcomes Dropping of Deportation Order for Chinese Man Who Documented Uyghur Concentration Camps

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed the dropping of a deportation order for Heng Guan, a Chinese citizen who documented the Chinese government’s Uyghur concentration camps. Earlier this month, CAIR called for his release from ICE custody. Guan, who fled China after gathering evidence of human-rights […]

CAIR Md. Welcomes U. Of Maryland Student Government Vote Urging Campus Protections for Immigrant Students 

The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today welcomed the University of Maryland Student Government Association’s (SGA) recent passage of a resolution urging the university to adopt sanctuary campus protections in a move that reflects growing student concern for safety, dignity, and equal access to education for all students, regardless of immigration […]

CAIR Opposes Latest Expansion of Muslim and African Travel Ban, Unprecedented Targeting of Families of U.S. Citizens

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today expressed strong opposition to the Trump administration’s decision to expand its discriminatory 2025 Muslim and African travel ban by adding seven more countries to the fully-banned list, imposing full restrictions on people traveling with Palestinian Authority-issued documents, and limiting the […]

CAIR Calls for ICE to Release Chinese Man Who Documented Uyghur Concentration Camps

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today called for the release of Heng Guan, a Chinese citizen who documented the Chinese government’s Uyghur concentration camps, from ICE custody.  Guan, who fled China after gathering evidence of human-rights violations against the nation’s Uyghur population, is reportedly at […]

Somali Community and CAIR-Minnesota to Announce Initiatives to Support Community

Somali community leaders, joined by CAIR-Minnesota and allied organizations, plan to hold a press conference today at 3:00 p.m. at Minneapolis City Hall to announce a series of initiatives aimed at supporting and strengthening the Somali American community amid recent attacks and escalating misinformation. WHAT: Press Conference WHEN: Today, Thursday, December 4, 2025 – 3:00 […]

CAIR-SFBA Warns of Rising ICE Detentions of Afghan Community Members in Bay Area, Condemns Discriminatory Immigration Freeze 

The San Francisco Bay Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today warned of increasing ICE detentions of Afghan community members in the Bay Area and condemned the Trump administration’s sweeping freeze on immigration-related processing for Afghan nationals as discriminatory “collective punishment” that puts […]

CAIR Calls USCIS Order Freezing Asylum ‘Overbroad, Redundant and Discriminatory’

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned a sweeping new USCIS directive that freezes all pending asylum applications nationwide, halts all pending applications and orders the re-review of immigration benefits for nationals of the 19 countries targeted in President Trump’s updated June 2025 Muslim and African travel ban. In […]

CAIR, CAIR-MN Strongly Condemns ‘Raw Racism’ Targeting Rep. Ilhan Omar and Somali-American Community

The Minnesota chapter and national headquarters of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today strongly condemned racist and dishonest attacks on Rep. Ilhan Omar and the broader Somali-American community, including remarks by President Trump referring to all Somali-Americans and Somali immigrants as “garbage” and calling for […]

CAIR-MN Condemns Politically Motivated ICE Targeting of Somali Minnesotans

The Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MN) today condemned a sharp and troubling increase in ICE activity targeting Somali Minnesotans, calling these actions alarming, politically driven, and harmful to community safety. Over the past several days, Somali families have reported unannounced ICE visits, intimidation at private homes, and increased surveillance in neighborhoods […]

CAIR-WA Releases Community Advisory for Muslim Immigrants 

The Washington state chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-WA), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today released a community advisory addressing recent immigration-related announcements made by the Trump administration following the tragic shooting of two members of the National Guard last week.  “While we were all horrified […]

CAIR-CA Urges Trump Admin to Lift Ban on Immigration and Visa Processing for Afghan Nationals

The California chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CA) today urged the Trump administration to lift its sweeping ban on all immigration-related processing for Afghan nationals and reverse its decision to issue punitive immigration measures that could affect tens of thousands of refugees, asylum seekers, green card holders, and families seeking reunification. CAIR-CA also […]

CAIR-NY Condemns FBI Surveillance of Immigration-Rights Volunteers; Condemns ICE Raid in Chinatown

The New York chapter of the Council on American‑Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY) today expressed grave concern over newly revealed federal documents showing that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the New York City Police Department (NYPD) surveilled a private encrypted chat group used by immigration-rights volunteers in New York City, labeling their activities as “anarchist […]

CAIR Welcomes Federal Court Order Delaying Trump Administration’s Termination of TPS for Syria

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed a federal court’s decision ordering the Department of Homeland Security to delay its planned termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Syria which is still engulfed in nearly 14 years of civil war, displacement, and humanitarian catastrophe. SEE: US judge blocks termination […]

Happening Tomorrow: CAIR-CA to Host Webinar Featuring Recently Released British Muslim Journalist Sami Hamdi 

On Wednesday, Nov. 19, the California chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CA) will host a webinar with British Muslim journalist and political commentator Sami Hamdi, who has recently been released and is back home in London after being unjustly detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for more than two weeks for criticizing Israel’s genocide in Gaza.  During the webinar, attendees will have the chance […]

CAIR-NC Joins North Carolina Muslim Political Groups in Joint Statement on Border Patrol Entering North Carolina

The North Carolina chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NC), the Muslim American Public Affairs Council (MAPAC), and Charlotte Muslim Caucus (CMC) today jointly condemn the United States Border Patrol’s impending incursion into Charlotte, North Carolina.  On Thursday, November 13, the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office announced that U.S. Border Patrol agents would be arriving […]

CAIR Maryland Calls for Transparency from Baltimore County Executive on ICE Agreement

The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today sent a letter calling for transparency from Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier regarding a memorandum of understanding (MOU) reportedly executed between Baltimore County and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). According to reports, the county affirmed that the agreement provides federal authorities notice when […]

CAIR Says New 7,500 Refugee Cap with Preference for White South Africans Endangers People Fleeing ‘Real Oppression’

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today said that a new Trump administration policy limiting refugee admissions to 7,500 people per year — with most slots reportedly being designated for white South Africans — will endanger those truly fleeing war, persecution, and oppression around the world. In a […]

CAIR Welcomes Journalist Groups’ Call for Release of Sami Hamdi From ICE Detention

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed statements by the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) calling for the release of British Muslim journalist Sami Hamdi, who is currently detained by U.S. authorities apparently due to his public statements criticizing […]

CAIR California Attorneys Meet with Sami Hamdi in ICE Detention, File Habeas Petition and Emergency TRO to Block Transfer

The California chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CA), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today announced that it met with detained British Muslim journalist Sami Hamdi in ICE detention yesterday at Golden State Annex, in McFarland, California and have filed for a habeas petition to protect his constitutional rights and […]

CAIR Action Alert: Tell Congress to Demand Release of Sami Hamdi, Reject Anti-Muslim Hate in U.S. Government

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization and CAIR Action, today is urging all Americans to call on Congress to denounce anti-Muslim extremist Laura Loomer’s apparent influence over Trump administration policy and demand that ICE immediately release British journalist Sami Hamdi, who was detained at San Francisco International Airport after criticizing […]

BREAKING: CAIR Calls on ICE to Release Sami Hamdi, British Journalist Abducted Over Criticism of Israel’s Genocide

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today called for the immediate release of British Muslim journalist and political commentator Sami Hamdi, who was detained at San Francisco International Airport this morning, apparently because of his criticism of Israel’s genocide in Gaza and at the urging of a […]

CAIR-Houston Urges University of Houston to Engage with Students Hunger Striking To Protect Immigrants on Campus, End Ties to Human Rights Abusers

The Houston chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Houston) today expressed support for a group of University of Houston (UH) students participating in a peaceful hunger strike and urged the university to engage with the students regarding their call to protect immigrant students on campus and to end partnerships with corporations allegedly complicit in […]

CAIR-NY Condemns ‘Unethical’ ICE Raids in Chinatown 

The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned a series of what it called “unethical” raids carried out by federal immigration agents targeting vendors and community members in Manhattan’s Chinatown.   According to news reports, on the afternoon of […]

CAIR-DFW Joins Free Yaa’kub Campaign, Partners in Demanding USCIS Withdraw Unlawful Notice to Terminate DACA Status of Photojournalist

The Dallas-Fort Worth office of the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR-DFW) has joined the Free Yaa’kub Campaign, Immigrant Rights Groups, Civil Liberties organizations, and the DFW community in demanding USCIS withdraw its unlawful notice to terminate the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status of Photojournalist Yaa’kub  (Jacob) Ira Vijandre unjustly detained by ICE. […]

CAIR-Houston Calls for Immediate Release of Palestinian Refugee Detained at Houston Airport

(HOUSTON, TX, OCTOBER 10, 2025) — The Houston chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Houston), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, is calling for the immediate release of Ibrahim Al Taha, a Palestinian refugee from Lebanon, currently held by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at George Bush Intercontinental […]

CAIR-NY Condemns ICE Assault on Journalist for Turkish News Agency

Injury comes as Israel murders freelance journalist in Gaza for another Turkish media outlet The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned a reported attack by federal agents on journalists outside a New York City immigration court on Tuesday, […]

CAIR Calls End of Temporary Protected Status for Syrians ‘Premature,’ Urges Extension Until Rebuilding and Safety Make Returns Possible

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today opposed the Department of Homeland Security’s decision to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Syrians in America, calling it premature while much of Syria remains devastated and uninhabitable following the destruction left by the former Assad regime. Entire neighborhoods in Syrian […]

CAIR Welcomes Withdrawal of Rep. Mast’s Unconstitutional Passport Revocation Provision

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed the withdrawal of Section 226 of H.R. 5300, a dangerous provision that would have granted Secretary of State Marco Rubio sweeping, unchecked authority to revoke U.S. passports. Rep. Brian Mast backed out,retreating from this harmful measure, showing that even […]

CAIR, CAIR-LA Say SCOTUS Decision Gives ICE “License to Profile and Terrorize” Latino Community

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, and its Greater Los Angeles Area office (CAIR-LA) today expressed strong opposition to a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that effectively permits Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to resume racially profiling, detaining, and interrogating Latinos who gather in public in Los […]

CAIR-CT Welcomes Lifting of Israeli Travel Ban on Meriden Family

The Connecticut chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CT), together with the Abdelghani family of Meriden, welcomes the news that U.S. citizens Intifada Abdelghani and her 14-year-old son Musa, both U.S. citizens, will now be able to return home after Israel lifted a security ban that had prevented them from leaving the country. CAIR-CT recently called on state elected officials […]

CAIR-Ohio Joins Faith Leaders in Urging Gov. DeWine to Stop Deportation of Imam Ayman Soliman

The Council on American-Islamic Relations, Ohio (CAIR-Ohio) yesterday joined dozens of interfaith leaders and community members at the Ohio Statehouse to deliver a letter to Governor Mike DeWine, urging him to act immediately to prevent the deportation of Imam Ayman Soliman, a Cincinnati imam and hospital chaplain currently being held in ICE custody. The letter was signed […]

CAIR-WA Calls on Federal Authorities to Release Muslim Veteran Taken into ICE Custody at Citizenship Interview 

The Washington state chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-WA), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today called on Federal authorities to release prominent community member and veteran Muhammad Zahid Chaudhry from immigration detention.  Muhammad Zahid Chaudhry was taken into ICE detention today, August 21, at a citizenship […]

CAIR Calls on USCIS to Rescind ‘Israel First’ Immigration Policy that Threatens Benefits and Free Speech on Palestine

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today demanded that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) immediately rescind a new policy that threatens both immigration benefits and the First Amendment rights of immigrant communities, particularly those advocating for Palestinian human rights. On August 19, USCIS released Policy Alert PA-2025-16, instructing […]

CAIR Says Trump Admin’s $15,000 Visa Bond Program Is ‘Legalized Shakedown,’ Not National Security

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the Trump administration’s new visa bond pilot program requiring foreign visitors from select countries to pay up to $15,000 in cash deposits as a condition for entry into the United States as a “legalized shakedown.” SEE: Federal Register :: Visas: Visa […]

CAIR Condemns ICE’s Detention of Pastor in Easton, Maryland

The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, expresses deep concern and condemnation over the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention of Daniel Fuentes Espinal, a longstanding pastor in Easton, Maryland. According to local reports, Espinal was taken into ICE custody after leaving Lowe’s […]

CAIR Demands Release of North Carolina Asylum Seeker Abducted By ICE in Apparent Case of Mistaken Identity

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil-rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the abduction of longtime North Carolina resident, father of five and Libyan asylum-seeker Mohamed Ali Aboubaker Naser, who was taken into custody by ICE agents who reportedly misidentified him as an Iranian citizen.  In a statement, CAIR Community Advocacy Director […]

CAIR Ohio Calls for Immediate Release of Cincinnati Imam Detained by ICE

The Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) today called for the immediate release of Imam Ayman Soliman, a respected Muslim chaplain at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and imam at Clifton Mosque, who was detained yesterday by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). SEE: Former Cincinnati Children’s chaplain detained by ICE – USA Today Imam Ayman […]

CAIR-Minnesota Director to Join Instagram Event on Impact of Trump’s New Travel Ban

On Thursday, June 26, Jaylani Hussein, executive director of the Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Minnesota) will join a live Instagram event, “Trump’s travel ban: What it means for Minnesotans,” discussing the impact of President Trump’s new travel ban barring nationals of 12 countries from entering the U.S. and partially restricting those from another […]

CAIR Welcomes Federal Judge’s Reaffirmation of Due Process in Kilmar Abrego Garcia Case

The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed a federal judge’s recent decision to uphold constitutional due process in the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia—a man who was previously deported in violation of court orders and held without charge. CAIR urged the […]

Community Advisory: CAIR Releases ‘Understanding the Trump Administration’s New Muslim/African Travel Ban’ Guidance

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today released “Understanding the Trump Administration’s New Muslim/African Travel Ban” guidance following the Trump administration’s recent proclamation announcing a new and expanded travel ban, targeting 19 mostly Muslim and African nations. SEE: Understanding the Trump Administration’s New Muslim/African Travel Ban’  The […]

CAIR Condemns Trump Admin’s Termination of TPS for Cameroon, Calls for Special Humanitarian Parole

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the Trump administration’s decision to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Cameroon, warning that the move places thousands of lives at risk. CAIR is calling on Congress to immediately introduce a resolution granting special humanitarian parole for Cameroonian nationals who now […]

CAIR-Minnesota to Hold Press Conference Monday to Condemn President Trump’s Expanded Muslim and African Ban

The Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Minnesota) will hold a press conference on Monday, June 9 at 3:30 p.m. CT to denounce President Donald Trump’s newly implemented travel and immigration ban affecting 19 countries—primarily Muslim-majority, African, and Southeast Asian nations. The executive order goes into effect today, June 9, and bars or restricts travel from 12 countries, […]

Community Alert: What You Need to Know About Trump’s New Travel Ban Order

Assalamu alaikum, We write to share updates and guidance about the newly expanded Muslim and African Ban. Yesterday, President Trump issued an order blocking or restricting new immigration or travel entry into the United States for citizens of 19 countries who do not already have U.S. legal status—mostly from Muslim-majority and African nations. It is […]

CAIR Calls Trump’s Expanded Travel Ban Targeting Mostly Muslim, African Nations, Free Speech ‘Unnecessary, Overbroad and Ideologically Motivated’

The Council on American-Islamic Relations, the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today responded to President Trump’s new and expanded travel ban, which targets 19 mostly Muslim and African nations and raises the specter of more vague ideological screening tests on immigrants, by calling the order “unnecessary, overbroad and ideologically motivated.”  CAIR also […]

CAIR Urges Trump Admin to Reconsider Termination of TPS for Afghanistan, Calls for Pathway to Citizenship

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today called on the Trump administration and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to reverse their decision to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghanistan and urged Congress to pass legislation establishing a clear pathway to citizenship for Afghan nationals […]

BREAKING: CAIR Says Louisiana Immigration Judge’s ‘Dangerous, Unconstitutional’ Ruling on Mahmoud Khalil Must Not Stand

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today said a ruling by a U.S. immigration judge in Louisiana that Columbia University anti-genocide activist Mahmoud Khalil can be deported for his peaceful political activities and beliefs is a “dangerous, unconstitutional” decision that must not stand. The judge gave Khalil’s attorneys until […]

CAIR-GA, Advancing Justice-Atlanta Condemn Trump Admin’s Revocation of International Students’ Visas at UGA, KSU and Emory

Civil rights groups call for immediate reinstatement and protection of international students’ rights  The Georgia Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-GA), the local chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, and Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Atlanta, today expressed grave concern and outrage following reports from international students in Georgia that […]

CAIR Calls DHS Consideration of Criticism of Israel in Immigration Benefits ‘McCarthyism’

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today said that a new U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) policy to screen social media for “antisemitic activity” to block immigration benefits amounts to ‘McCarthyism.” The new policy affects people applying for lawful permanent status, foreign student visas and […]

CAIR-Arizona Denounces Trump Admin’s Visa Revocations, Demands Reinstatement and Safeguarding of International Students’ Rights

The Arizona chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-AZ), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today expressed grave concern and outrage over reports that at least 50 Arizona State University students have had their visas revoked by the Department of Homeland Security and are being ordered to leave the United States. SEE: At least […]

CAIR-NY Condemns Targeting of Yunseo Chung; Welcomes TRO from Federal Court

The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY) today strongly condemned the ongoing efforts by federal immigration authorities to target Yunseo Chung, a Columbia University undergraduate student activist, for her involvement in pro-Palestinian demonstrations and welcomes the temporary restraining order from the Federal Court. Chung, a 21-year-old South Korean national and a […]

CAIR-MA Condemns ICE Abduction of Tufts Student Rumeysa Ozturk 

The Massachusetts chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MA), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the abduction of Tufts graduate student Rumeysa Ozturk by federal immigration authorities.   Video provided by neighbors appears to show Ozturk being seized by federal agents after leaving her home, handcuffed, and driven away […]

CAIR Releases Webinar ‘Unconstitutional Crackdowns: Protecting Your Green Cards, Visas, and Free Speech Rights’ Attended by Over 2,000 

The Council on American-Islamic Relations today released a webinar sharing its latest guidance about how vulnerable members of the public can address the Trump administration’s ongoing and escalating attacks on due process, immigrant rights and free speech on Palestine. During the event, titled, “Unconstitutional Crackdowns: Protecting Your Green Cards, Visas, and Free Speech Rights,” CAIR attorneys and […]

COMMUNITY ADVISORY: CAIR to Host Ramadan Webinar ‘Unconstitutional Crackdowns: Protecting Your Green Cards, Visas, and Free Speech Rights’ on 3/23

The Council on American-Islamic Relations today announced that it plans to host its annual Ramadan webinar on Sunday, March 23th, at 3:00 pm ET, to share its latest guidance about how vulnerable members of the public can address the Trump administration’s ongoing and escalating attacks on due process, immigrant rights and free speech on Palestine. During […]

CAIR Condemns Deportation of 10-Year-Old American Cancer Patient, Undocumented Parents to Mexico

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the Trump administration’s deportation of a 10-year-old American citizen and cancer patient to Mexico A family on their way to an emergency medical check-up for their 10-year-old daughter, who is recovering from brain cancer, was detained by immigration […]

CAIR Welcomes Baltimore Co. BOE’s ‘Unanimous’ Resolution to Limit Immigration Enforcement at Schools

The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today welcomed the Baltimore County Board of Education’s unanimous passage of a resolution aimed at enhancing protections for immigrant students.  SEE: Baltimore County Board of Education passes measure to protect rights of immigrant students The resolution comes at a time when federal policies have created an […]

CAIR-Chicago, Partners, and Elected Officials Condemn Abduction of Mahmoud Khalil and White House Use of ICE to Suppress Political Dissent

On Wednesday March 12th, the Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Chicago), partners and elected officials will host a press conference denouncing the abduction of U.S. Citizen Mahmoud Khalil and political suppression on Chicago University campuses. Speakers will react to Mahmoud’s federal court hearing expected hours before and will announce the introduction of a […]

CAIR in the News, March 11, 2025

CAIR: Watertown Shamrocks issue apology following an incident with a group of fans – Dakota News Now The Council of Islamic Relations called for the North American Hockey League to take action following the event. “We condemn the reported racist behavior targeting Sangyeob Kim and urge North American Hockey League officials to take appropriate actions […]

CAIR-NY Condemns Arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, Calls for Immediate Release

The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY) today strongly condemned the recent arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and Columbia University graduate, by federal immigration authorities. Khalil, a lawful permanent resident of the United States, was detained at his university-owned residence by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to revoke his […]

Free Mahmoud Khalil: Tell Your Members of Congress to Demand His Release!

Join the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) in urging your members of Congress to demand that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) immediately release anti-genocide activist Mahmoud Khalil. Take Action: Time is Running Out—Contact Your Members of Congress Now! A recent Columbia University graduate and lawful permanent resident of Palestinian heritage, Khalil was […]

CAIR Calls on State Department to Condemn Thailand’s Deportation of Uyghurs to China

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today called on the State Department to condemn the government of Thailand for deporting Uyghurs to China. CAIR also urged the State Department to exert increased pressure on China to stop its genocide of Uyghurs.  This morning, a group of trucks […]

CAIR Issues Travel Advisory After Increased Reports of Secondary Screenings at Major U.S. Airports  

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today issued a precautionary travel advisory to Muslim travelers in light of recent reports of community members being stopped at the U.S. border for secondary screenings. SEE: The four-letter boarding pass code that could cause big airport delays ACTION REQUESTED: If you, or anyone […]

CAIR Welcomes Reintroduction of Bipartisan American Dream and Promise Act of 2025

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed the reintroduction of the bipartisan American Dream and Promise Act of 2025 by Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (D-TX-29) and a broad coalition of Democratic and Republican lawmakers. This critical legislation would provide a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers—undocumented immigrants brought to […]

Thursday 2/27: Join CAIR’s Webinar on Impending Travel Ban, Immigration Scrutiny

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organizations today invited community members to join its upcoming webinar on Thursday, February 27 on the Trump administration’s impending travel ban and increased immigration security.  The webinar will feature CAIR’s Government Affairs Director Robert McCaw, Senior Litigation Attorney Gadeir Abbas, and Deputy […]

Georgia Muslim Civic Organizations to Host Muslim Advocacy Day at Capitol

On Thursday, Feb. 27, the Georgia chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Georgia) and Georgia Muslim Voter Project (GAMVP) plan to host Muslim Advocacy Day at the Georgia State Capitol.  This event is designed to make advocacy accessible for Georgia Muslims and empower them to address key issues impacting Muslims in Georgia. In light of recent attempts […]

CAIR in the News, February 21, 2025

CAIR-LA: Santa Ana School District Settles Lawsuit Over Alleged Antisemitic Classes – Voice of OC CAIR-LA: Santa Ana Unified settles lawsuit over allegedly antisemitic ethnic studies courses – Orange County Register CAIR: National groups respond to Patriot Front action in Mississippi – The Clarion-Ledger The Council on American-Islamic Relations has condemned the Patriot Front’s actions […]

200+ Join CAIR, UMMC, Community Partners at 2025 Md. Muslim Lobby Day

Today, CAIR thanked its community partners and attendees who helped make this year’s Muslim Lobby Day in Annapolis a success. More than 200 community members registered and participated for the annual event held at the House of Delegates in the state capital of Annapolis.  Lobby Day partners included the United Maryland Muslim Council and the […]

CAIR in the News, February 18, 2025

CAIR: Israel Plans 1,000 New Settlement Homes as West Bank Raids Intensify – Common Dreams CAIR: After Miami shooting, rights groups spotlight rising anti-Palestinian racism – The New Arab CAIR: Man charged in Florida shooting thought victims were Palestinians, police say – Washington Post The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) Florida chapter called for Brafman […]

CAIR in the News, February 14, 2025

CAIR-NJ: Legal protections for Muslim women wearing the hijab you need to know CAIR (Video): Weaponising anti-Semitism won’t save Israel’s reputation | #AJOPINION Donald Trump’s executive order to remove pro-Palestinian foreign students under the guise of fighting anti-Semitism will not save Israel’s reputation in the United States, according to Council on American-Islamic Relations’ Nihad Awad. […]

CAIR in the News, February 10, 2025

CAIR: Trump Suggests Palestinians Won’t Have Right To Return To Redeveloped Gaza – Forbes Council on American-Islamic Relations’ National Executive Director Nihad Awad said: “If the Palestinian people were ever somehow forcibly expelled from Gaza, this crime against humanity would complete the Israeli genocide of the Palestinians on their own land, spark widespread conflict, put […]

CAIR in the News, February 7, 2025

CAIR-MI: Man charged with ethnic intimidation for threats against US Muslim group – Reuters CAIR-MI: Man accused of ethnic intimidation against Michigan Muslim group charged – The Detroit News CAIR-MI: St. Clair Shores man arrested for harassing Michigan Muslim Civil Rights Organization with threats – ClickOnDetroit CAIR-MI: St. Clair man charged with ethnic intimidation for allegedly threatening CAIR-MI – FOX 2 Detroit CAIR-MI: Man […]

CAIR Action Alert: Urge Congress to Support the NO BAN Act to Stop Discriminatory Travel Bans

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, is calling on all Americans to urge their Members of Congress to support the National Origin-Based Antidiscrimination for Nonimmigrants (NO BAN) Act Sponsored by Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) and Sen. Chris Coons (DE). This crucial legislation would prohibit any future administration, including the […]

CAIR in the News, February 6, 2025

CAIR: Arab American, Muslim leaders decry Trump comments on Gaza – Reuters CAIR-MN: Leaders react to President Trump’s comments about the U.S. taking over Gaza  – KARE 11 CAIR-MN: Trump’s call for U.S. control of Gaza draws rebuke from Minnesota activists and academics – Star Tribune Video: Canela TV News interviewed CAIR-Florida Communications Director Wilfredo […]

CAIR Joins CASA, Community Partners to Support ‘Protecting Sensitive Locations Act,’ Defend Immigrant Families in Maryland

The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations joined immigrant advocacy organization CASA, lawmakers and community partners at a press conference in Annapolis urging support for the Protecting Sensitive Locations Act to block ICE from Maryland schools and protect immigrant families.                                                                                          Following President Trump’s rescission of federal guidelines that previously restricted ICE operations in […]

CAIR in the News, January 30, 2025

CAIR: National advocacy group condemns racially motivated vandalism in Muscatine – Quad-City Times CAIR-MN: Minnesota BLM, allied groups calling for a boycott of Target – North Dallas Gazette CAIR Minnesota will be joining in the call for a boycott. “We must remind the public that Minneapolis is the place where George Floyd was brutally murdered by the Minneapolis Police Department,” […]

CAIR in the News, January 25, 2025

CAIR-Philadelphia: Islamic activist reacts to local teacher allegedly calling student a ‘terrorist’ – CBS CAIR-Philadelphia: Teacher on administrative leave over alleged comment towards Central Dauphin student – ABC CAIR-NJ Condemns Reported Racist Text Messages by Monmouth County Officers, Calls for Investigation Transparency CAIR: Removal and Resistance: Reflections on Anti-Muslim Racism CAIR: What if ICE shows […]

CAIR Welcomes Federal Court Decision Blocking President Trump’s Birthright Citizenship Order

The Council on American-Islamic Relations applauds the recent ruling by U.S. District Judge John C. Coughenour, who temporarily blocked President Trump’s executive order seeking to end birthright citizenship. This decision, which deems the order “blatantly unconstitutional,” reinforces the fundamental rights guaranteed to all individuals under the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. SEE: Judge temporarily […]

Good News Alert: Chicago City Council Rejects Attack on Sanctuary Protections

On Wednesday January 15th, the Chicago City Council voted 39-11 to reject Ordinance O2023-0004222, a dangerous proposal that would have rolled back the Welcoming City Ordinance by allowing local police to collaborate with ICE. This resounding defeat upholds Chicago’s long-standing commitment to being a sanctuary city, protecting immigrant communities, and maintaining constitutional rights.  CAIR-Chicago’s Communications […]

CAIR in the News, January 3, 2025

CAIR: Outrage Over Global ‘Silence’ as Israel Continues Ethnic Cleansing in Gaza – Common Dreams CAIR: Biden Awards Cheney With Presidential Citizens Medal Despite Human Rights Record – Truthout Because of her support for torture — as well as her bigotry against Muslims, her warhawk attitudes, and her spreading baseless birtherism conspiracy theories about former […]

CAIR Condemns Anti-Muslim Extremist’s Christmas Market Massacre in Germany, Calls on Elon Musk to Stop Spreading Disinformation About Attack

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the Christmas market attack perpetrated in Germany by an outspoken atheist from Saudi Arabia who had reportedly spent years attacking Islam, embracing far-right views, praising Israel, and criticizing the German government for supposedly failing to protect other atheists […]

CAIR-SFBA Applauds Alameda County’s Decision to Divest from Caterpillar and Advance Ethical Investment Policy

— The San Francisco Bay Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed the Alameda County Board of Supervisors’ decision to divest $32 million in public funds from Caterpillar and unanimously commit to adopting an ethical investment policy.   SEE: Alameda County Divests […]

CAIR in the News, November 14, 2024

CAIR-NJ: 19 N.J. Muslims won municipal or school board races – NJ Advance CAIR: Biden’s continued pro-Israel position faces backlash after election setback – The New Arab On Wednesday, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), a leading Muslim American civil rights organisation, condemned Biden as a ‘war criminal’ for his decision to continue supplying weapons […]

CAIR-MA Announces Linda Sarsour as Keynote Speaker for Annual Banquet on November 16 

November 13, 2024 — BOSTON, MA —  The Massachusetts chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MA) is proud to announce that renowned civil rights activist Linda Sarsour will be the keynote speaker at its Annual Banquet, taking place on November 16, 2024. The theme of this year’s banquet is Refusing to be Silenced, Refusing to […]

CAIR-LA Reaffirms Commitment to Combating Islamophobia, Xenophobia, and Racism Amid Trump Reelection, Commends California Muslim Voter Turnout 

The Greater Los Angeles Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-LA) today reaffirmed its commitment to combating Islamophobia, xenophobia, and racism following the reelection of Donald Trump. CAIR-LA also commended California Muslims for turning out to vote in yesterday’s election despite deep frustration and disillusionment with both major parties due to their support of […]

CAIR Welcomes DHS Protections for Lebanese Nationals, Urges End to Israeli Attacks on Lebanon

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) announcement of temporary immigration protections for eligible Lebanese nationals currently residing in the United States, including Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) and a new designation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Lebanon. While these measures provide […]

Community Advisory: Last Day to Register to Vote Approaching for November Elections: Take Action Now

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest civil rights and advocacy organization, is urging all eligible voters to register for the upcoming general election before their state’s registration deadlines. With key races in many battleground states, including Georgia, Arizona, and Florida, this election will shape the future of critical issues, including civil rights, […]

CAIR-NY Condemns Cornell University for Punishing an International Student for Speaking out Against War Crimes by Revoking his Student Visa

The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned Cornell University for suspending Momodou Taal, an international graduate student from the UK, who now faces deportation for participating in anti-genocide activities.    Taal attended a protest opposing at a career fair […]

CAIR Supports Effort to Remove Confederate Symbols from Montgomery, Alabama, Flag

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today expressed its support for a petition to remove Confederate symbols from the flag of Montgomery, Alabama. A group of Montgomery high school students have started a petition to remove Confederate symbols from the city’s flag. As of Monday evening, […]

CAIR in the News, September 24, 2024

Video: CAIR-Florida Media & Outreach Director Wilfredo A. Ruiz Discusses the American Muslim Community (Spanish) CAIR calls on UGA to drop charges against students arrested during pro-Palestine protest – FOX 5 Atlanta CAIR: UGA 6 call for suspensions, conduct violation charges to be dropped – redandblack.com CAIR: A Missouri death row inmate is set to […]

CAIR in the News, September 12, 2024

CAIR weighs legal action over UMCP’s ‘free-expression-black-out date’ on Oct. 7 – Maryland Matters Civil rights groups are calling on the University of Maryland, College Park, to reverse its prohibition on student-led demonstrations on Oct 7, the anniversary of the Hamas terror attack that killed about 1,200 Israelis. The Council on American-Islamic Relations and Palestine […]

CAIR-Arizona Condemns Racist, Anti-Haitian Billboard

The Arizona chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-AZ), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the display of a billboard promoting unsubstantiated, racist claims about Haitian immigrants.  A billboard targeting Haitian immigrants that reads “eat less kittens” was put up in Phoenix. The billboard is a reference to false […]

CAIR Expresses Solidarity with Haitian Community Targeted by Racist Hate Campaign

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today expressed solidarity with the Haitian community nationwide as it is being targeted by an online racist hate campaign. Racists, white supremacists, anti-immigrant activists, and even some elected officials are spreading the false rumor that Haitians are abducting and eating pets. […]

CAIR Expresses Solidarity with Haitian Community in Alabama After Racist Pushback to Immigration

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today expressed solidarity with the Haitian community in Albertville, Alabama, after recent racist responses to Haitians moving to that city to work in a chicken processing plant. At a recent public hearing, one person reportedly said: “I’m gonna tell you something […]

CAIR Welcomes Reintroduction of NO BAN Act to Prevent Future ‘Muslim Ban’

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed the U.S. House and Senate reintroduction of the “National Origin-Based Antidiscrimination for Nonimmigrants Act” also known as the “NO BAN Act” and the “Access to Counsel Act.” CAIR is urging all Americans who opposed the Trump administration’s discriminatory […]

CAIR in the News, July 16, 2024

CAIR: Delta Air Lines flight attendants push back after Palestinian flag flap leads to a blanket ban on uniform pins – Fast Company CAIR Welcomes Delta Apology for Anti-Palestinian Post (Video)CAIR: New Jersey GOP, Democrats Condemn Trump Assassination Attempt – Patch The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy […]

CAIR Urges Senate to Reject Amendment Targeting Palestinian Immigrants

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today calls on the Senate to reject the House of Representatives’ amendment to the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act (H.R. 8752) Part C Amendment No. 45 that would bar funding for the implementation of a directive from President Biden to delay […]

Staff Attorney (Cleveland Office)

Careers in CAIR Ohio

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Staff Attorney will provide legal representation, advocacy, and support to individuals and communities facing discrimination and civil rights violations. The role involves direct client services, community education, and collaborative work with other CAIR-Ohio staff and partner organizations. Legal Representation & Advocacy Community Outreach & Education  Organizational Support Required Qualifications […]

CAIR California Welcomes President Biden’s ‘Parole in Place’ Expansion, Urges Broader Reforms

The California chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CA), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed President Joe Biden’s expansion of the Parole in Place program, announced Tuesday. This immigration relief measure will allow certain undocumented immigrants married to U.S. citizens to stay in the country and work legally. While […]

CAIR Expresses Concerns About Impact of President Biden’s Executive Order Suspending Asylum Claims

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today expressed concern about the impact of President Biden’s executive order temporarily suspending the processing of most asylum claims at the southern U.S. border.  The order, which activates when the seven-day average of unauthorized crossings exceeds 2,500, sets an arbitrary threshold and is […]

CAIR Welcomes Md. Motor Vehicle Administration’s Authentication of Palestinian Driver’s License

The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today welcomed the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration’s (MVA) decision to authenticate a customer’s valid foreign driver’s license issued by the Palestinian Authority following CAIR’s call for an investigation into a refusal to do so. SEE: CAIR Calls on Md. Motor Vehicle Administration to Probe Denial to […]

CAIR Calls on Md. Motor Vehicle Administration to Probe Denial to Authenticate Palestinian Driver’s License

The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today called on the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) to investigate an employee’s reported refusal to authenticate a customer’s valid foreign driver’s license issued by the Palestinian Authority. This denial of service led to the customer being unable to acquire a Maryland driver’s license. In […]

CAIR-SFBA Successfully Assists Afghan National in Gaining Asylum

The San Francisco Bay Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today announced that it successfully assisted an Afghan national in gaining asylum in the U.S.—the organization’s fourth successful removal defense case in recent months.  Born in Afghanistan, the asylum seeker “Omar” (name changed […]

CAIR-SFBA: Community Members Wrongfully Denied Visas from Trump’s Muslim Ban Win Major Agreement to Repair Far-Reaching Harms

In an unwavering assertion of people’s rights to find safety and a better life, a federal judge has approved a major agreement that provides a clear visa reconsideration process, including waived application fees, to nearly 25,000 community members from Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen who were harmed by the Trump administration’s Muslim Ban. […]

CAIR-FL Disapproves of President Biden’s Visit to Tampa Amidst Gaza Atrocities

The Florida chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-FL) today expressed disapproval of President Joe Biden’s campaign stop in Tampa amidst the ongoing atrocities and genocide in Gaza. The Biden administration’s failure to address these grave violations of human rights is deeply concerning and stains the moral fabric of our nation. The Tampa community […]

CAIR-WA, La Resistencia Call for Immediate Ramadan Accommodations at NWDC

The Washington chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-WA), today called on the Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) to immediately make necessary changes to ensure that Muslim people detained at NWDC can receive proper religious accommodations.   Northwest Detention Center is a privately-run immigration detention facility in Tacoma, Washington. This week, 10 days into the month-long observance […]

CAIR ACTION ALERT: Urge Member of Congress to Support H.Res 1048 Granting Humanitarian Parole for Cameroon

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights organization, in partnership with Cameroon Muslim Students Union (CAMSU), Cameroon Muslimahs of North America (CAMNA) and Cameroon American Council (CAC), today called on Americans to contact their members of Congress to support H. Res 1048, which calls for the Department of Homeland Security to […]

CAIR in the News, March 15, 2024

CAIR-GA: GA advocates rally against legislation aimed at immigrants Nazia Khanzada, communications manager for the Council on American Islamic Relations, or CAIR Georgia, also spoke at the Capitol. She underscored the importance of protecting all people, regardless of country of origin, religion or immigration status. Khanzada mentioned six pieces of legislation, saying some contain confusing […]

CAIR-Pittsburgh Condemns Council Member’s Bias in Immigration Remarks

The Pittsburgh chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Pittsburgh), a chapter of the largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the recent biased statement made by Bob Macey during the Allegheny County Council resolution vote on March 5th, 2024.  During the council meeting, a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza was […]

CAIR-GA: Georgia Muslim Civic Organizations to Host Muslim Advocacy Day at Capitol

On Thursday, March 7, the Georgia chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Georgia), Georgia Muslim Voter Project (GAMVP) and Inner-City Muslim Action Network-Atlanta (IMAN Atlanta) plan to host Muslim Advocacy Day at the capitol. This event is designed to bring together Muslim community leaders and advocates to address key issues impacting Muslims in Georgia. Attendees will participate in […]

CAIR-SFBA: More than 80 Movement, Organizational Leaders Announce Protest on Capitol Hill Calling for Ceasefire and End of U.S. Funding for Weapons to Israel, Border Militarization

(WASHINGTON D.C., 12/18/23) — Tomorrow (Dec. 19), more than 80 national movement and organizational leaders will stage a protest on Capitol Hill to demand a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and oppose the Biden administration’s proposed military aid package sending billions of taxpayer dollars to Israel, U.S. southern border militarization, and immigration enforcement.   Leaders will take this unprecedented action as […]

CAIR-Ohio Presents at Immigration Asylum Seminar

(COLUMBUS, OH, 9/21/2023) —On September 17, 2023, CAIR-Ohio Outreach Director Victoria Hickcox joined community members, leaders, and other organizations, at Jigjiga Mall for an Immigration Asylum Seminar to discuss CAIR-Ohio’s vital mission work and legal services. The seminar, attended by community members, legal professionals, and advocates, focused on connecting individuals facing challenges to seeking legal immigration […]

CAIR and Emgage Action Call on Fox News Anchors to Raise Muslim, Minority Community Engagement in Republican Presidential Primary Debate

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 8/21/23) – The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and Emgage Action today called on Fox News anchors Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum – who are scheduled to moderate the first Republican presidential primary debate on Wednesday, August 23 – to question Republican presidential candidates about their plans to reach out to and engage […]

CAIR Alerts State Department to Israeli Targeting of Palestinian-American Travelers, Families in Violation of Visa Waiver MOU

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 8/8/23) – The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today alerted the State Department to multiple instances of the Israeli government singling out and discriminating against American citizens of Palestinian descent attempting to travel to Israel and Palestine, including a Virginia restaurant owner and a family from Ohio.  In two separate letters sent to […]

CAIR-Arizona to Host Free ‘Know Your Rights’ Workshop

(PHOENIX, AZ, 7/12/2023) – On Tuesday, July 18, the Arizona chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-AZ), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, will host a “Know Your Rights” workshop with immigration attorney Ray Ybarra Maldonado.  Workshop participants will learn about issues such as how to help family members detained […]

Supervising Attorney

Careers in CAIR New York

Schedule Type: Full Time, Exempt About the Organization: CAIR-NY is a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization. Our vision is to be a leading advocate for justice and mutual understanding. Our mission is to protect civil rights, promote justice, enhance an understanding of Islam, and empower American Muslims. We serve Muslim […]

CAIR-CA Condemns Biden Administration’s Inhumane and Unlawful Asylum Ban

(LOS ANGELES, CA – 5/12/2023) – The California chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CA) today strongly condemned the Biden administration’s implementation of an inhumane and unlawful asylum ban.  Despite making campaign promises to overturn inhumane policies and stop forced deportations that violate due process, the Department of Homeland Security confirmed on May 10 that […]

CAIR-NJ Celebrates the Assembly’s Historic Vote in Support of Muslim Heritage Month Resolution

(SOUTH PLAINFIELD, NJ, 03/30/2023) — The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ) today celebrated the State Assembly’s historic vote in support of the Muslim Heritage Month Resolution [AJR194], moving it from the legislature to the Governor’s desk.  The resolution, which designates January of each year as “Muslim Heritage Month” in New Jersey, […]

CAIR, 35+ Groups Urge U.S. Government to Expedite Family-Based Petitions, Green Card & Refugee Applications for Türkiye and Syria Earthquake Survivors

(Washington, D.C., 3/21/23) – The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest civil rights and advocacy organization, today joined 36 other national and state Turkish American, Syrian American, immigration rights, and American Muslim and Christian organizations in a letter to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of State, urging those two federal […]

CAIR-Georgia, Georgia Muslim Voter Project (GAMVP) and IMAN-Atlanta to Co-Host Muslim Advocacy Day at the Georgia Capitol

(ATLANTA, GA, 03/15/2023) – On March 16, The Georgia Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-GA), Georgia Muslim Voter Project (GAMVP) and Inner-City Muslim Action Network-Atlanta (IMAN Atlanta) plan to host an Advocacy Day for Georgia Muslims at the Georgia State Capitol. What: Georgia Muslim Advocacy Day 2023  When: Thursday, March 16, from 11am to […]

CAIR-NY Celebrates Client Naturalization After Suing USCIS for Delayed Oath

(NEW YORK, NY, 2/06/2023) — The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY), nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today celebrated the naturalization of Farrukh Khamdamov after suing U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for unreasonable delays and failure to reschedule his oath ceremony.   Farrukh Khamdamov, a Queens resident and native of […]

CAIR-Florida: Afghan Refugee Who Served at U.S. Embassy in Kabul Granted Asylum

(TAMPA, FL, 1/12/2023) — The Florida chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-FL) today announced that its immigration department has received the first grant of asylum to one of its clients.     That client is a 31-year-old man who worked as a security guard at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul and was forced to flee […]

Spojmie Nasiri – National Board Member

Spojmie Nasiri is a first-generation immigrant who is acutely aware of the pain endured by immigrants separated from their families. Mrs. Nasiri’s personal experience gives her an in-depth understanding of the challenges faced by her clients and how complex and emotionally draining the American immigration process can be. Mrs. Nasiri founded the Law Office of Spojmie Nasiri, […]

CAIR, CAIR-MO Say Detention of American from St. Louis Shows Why Israel Must Not Be Admitted into U.S. Visa Waiver Program

Washington, D.C., based Muslim civil rights group supports American Muslims for Palestine effort to seek Hala Kasim Salameh’s immediate release  (WASHINGTON, D.C., 12/19/22) – The national and Missouri offices of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR/CAIR-MO), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today said Israel’s detention of an American citizen by Israeli forces […]

CAIR Welcomes Supreme Court Ruling on Trump-Era ‘Public Charge’ Immigration Rule

(WASHINGTON, D.C, 6/15/2022) – The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, welcomed the Supreme Court’s dismissal of an appeal by a group of Republican-led states that were seeking to challenge the way President Joe Biden ended the Trump administration’s “public charge” policy intended to curb legal immigration.   That policy was designed to […]

CAIR-CA Joins Amicus Brief Challenging Anti-Muslim Immigration Vetting Program

(SANTA CLARA, CA, 6/28/2021) – The California chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CA) joined the Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Law Caucus, CUNY CLEAR, the National Immigration Project of the National Lawyers Guild, and a dozen other civil rights and Muslim organizations in filing an amicus (friend of the court) brief with the United States District Court […]

CAIR-CA Releases 2021 Annual Legal Report Highlighting Expanded Services and High Volume of Immigration Intakes

Report shows CAIR-CA legal staff handled a total of 1,769 intakes in 2020, highlights impact of pandemic-related border closures and travel restrictions  (SANTA CLARA, CA, 5/3/2021) – The California chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CA) today announced the release of its annual statewide legal report that analyzes and summarizes all civil rights and immigration complaints in 2020 reported […]

CAIR Welcomes Biden Administration’s Rescinding of Harmful Public Charge Immigration Rule

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 2/3/21) — The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today welcome President Biden’s executive order to rescind the prior administration’s “public charge” order, which gave the government wide-reaching authorities to create barriers for certain low-income immigrants receiving public aid from being awarded green cards or temporary visas.   READ: Executive Order on Restoring Faith in […]

CAIR-CA Releases 2020 Annual Legal Report Showing 9% Increase in Immigration Cases

(SANTA CLARA, CA, 5/1/2020) – The California chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CA) today announced the release of its annual statewide legal report which analyzes and summarizes all civil rights and immigration complaints in 2019 reported to CAIR-CA’s offices in the San Francisco Bay Area (CAIR-SFBA), San Diego (CAIR-SD), the Greater Los Angeles Area […]

CAIR Community Advisory: What You Should Know About Trump’s Latest Immigration Ban

(WASHINGTON, D.C. – 4/23/20) – Last night, the Trump administration issued a Proclamation expanding immigration restrictions in a broad attempt to further its xenophobic agenda while distracting Americans from its own failure to adequately respond to the coronavirus pandemic. This Proclamation builds on a number of anti-immigrant policies put forward by the administration in the last several […]

CAIR Decries Supreme Court Decision to Allow Trump’s ‘Public Charge’ Immigration Rule

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 1/27/20) – The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today decried a U.S. Supreme Court decision that allows a Trump administration change to immigration rules that would give the government wide-reaching ability to deny green cards to those who have participated in public aid programs. Current […]

CAIR Welcomes Courts’ Decision to Block New Trump Rule Seeking to Limit Legal Immigration

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 10/14/19) – The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed three federal courts’ decision to block a new Trump administration rule that would severely limit immigration of low-income migrants. Last week, federal judges in California, New York and Washington issued injunctions temporarily blocking the implementation […]

CAIR-CA Publishes 2019 Annual Legal Services Report Showing Jump in Immigration Cases

(SANTA CLARA, CA, 08/19/19) The California chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CA) today announced the release of a statewide annual legal report showing a jump in immigration cases reported to CAIR-CA offices across the state. CAIR-CA’s ‘Annual Legal Report 2019’ summarizes and analyzes all civil rights and immigration complaints in 2018 reported to CAIR-CA’s […]

CAIR Condemns New Trump Rule Seeking to Limit Legal Immigration

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 8/13/19) – The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned a Trump administration change to immigration rules that would give the government wide reaching ability to deny green cards for those who have participated in public aid programs. Current immigration law classifies immigrants who are […]

CAIR Decries U.S. Cardinal’s Islamophobic Claim that Resisting Muslim Immigration is ‘Responsible,’ Citing of Debunked ‘No Go Zone’ Myth

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 5/23/19) – The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today expressed concern about remarks by U.S. Cardinal Raymond Burke smearing Islam and opposing Muslim immigration based on a debunked Islamophobic “no go zone” conspiracy theory. At the Roman Life Forum last week, Cardinal Burke stated that […]

CAIR-California Applauds Gov. Gavin Newsom’s ‘Defiance Against Trump’s Inhumane Immigration Agenda’

(SACRAMENTO, CA, 2/12/19) – The California chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CA) today applauded Gov. Gavin Newsom’s State of the State address in which he took a stand against President Donald Trump’s xenophobic policies. AUDIO: Gov. Gavin Newsom Delivers First State of the State (Capital Public Radio) “Among the governor’s many policy commitments, CAIR-California applauds Gov. Newsom’s […]

CAIR-Columbus Resolves Immigration Delay Lawsuits Against U.S. Consulates in Jerusalem, Ankara

(COLUMBUS, OHIO, 11/21/2017) — The Columbus, Ohio, chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Columbus) today announced the successful resolution of two lawsuits against U.S. consulates abroad for unreasonably delaying immigrant visas. The first lawsuit, filed last January in the Northern District of Ohio, was against the consulate in Jerusalem and challenged a nearly nine-year […]

CAIR-SFBA: Local Immigration Advocates to Hold Vigil to Support Families Impacted by Trump’s Muslim Bans

(SAN FRANCISCO, CA, 10/08/17) – On Monday, October 9, local groups from the Bay Area, including the Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Asian Law Caucus (ALC), the San Francisco Bay Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA), Arab Resource and Organizing Center (AROC), National Iranian American Council (NIAC), and Black Alliance for Just Immigration (BAJI) will […]

CAIR Action Alert: Urge Congress to Oppose Bill Slashing Legal Immigration, Favoring English Speakers

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 8/3/2017) – The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, is calling on all Americans of conscience to urge their members of Congress to not support the Trump administration-endorsed RAISE Act (Reforming American Immigration for Strong Employment Act), that slashes legal immigration in half from 1 […]

CAIR Seeks White House Clarification on DHS Proposal to Use National Guard for Immigration Roundups

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 2/17/17) – The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today called on the Trump administration to clarify the origins and current status of a draft U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) proposal to mobilize National Guard troops to round up millions of undocumented immigrants. According […]

DC: CAIR Rep to Join NJ Congressional Delegation at Meeting with Muslim Leaders to Address Immigration Concerns, Growing Islamophobia

WASHINGTON – Today, February 14, 2017, CAIR Director of Government Affairs Robert McCaw will join Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman, U.S. Senators Bob Menendez, Cory Booker, U.S. Reps. Donald Norcross, Josh Gottheimer, Frank Pallone, Jr., Leonard Lance, Albio Sires, Bill Pascrell, Jr., Donald Payne, Jr. to hear from constituents statewide on the impact of the now-halted […]

CAIR-Missouri to Join St. Louis March Against Muslim Ban, Anti-Immigration Orders

(ST. LOUIS, MO., 2/02/2017) – On Sunday, February 4th, Missouri Immigration and Refugee Advocates and the Missouri chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MO) will hold a rally and march to speak out against the unconstitutional executive orders of Donald Trump’s “Muslim Ban,” blocking of refugees and border wall.  WHAT: St. Louis March Against Muslim […]

CAIR-AL: Human Rights and Immigrant Rights Advocates, Faith and Community Leaders and Birmingham Mayor to Respond to President’s Immigration Executive Orders

(BIRMINGHAM, AL, 1/27/17) – On Saturday, January 28, the Alabama chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Alabama), the nation’s largest civil rights and advocacy group for Muslims, along with public officials, community leaders, human rights advocates, and interfaith organizations will hold a press conference in Birmingham to respond to the recent presidential immigration orders. […]

MEDIA ADVISORY – CAIR-GA: Georgia Muslim, Latino Leaders to Hold News Conference With Civil Rights and Refugee Groups In Response to Pres. Trump’s Immigration Executive Orders

(ATLANTA, GA - 1/26/17) – On Thursday, January 26, a diverse coalition of Georgia's civil rights, immigration and refugee organizations will hold a news conference in response to executive orders expected to be signed by President Donald Trump restricting immigration from Syria and six other Middle Eastern and African countries. WHAT: News Conference in Opposition to Executive Orders on Immigration WHEN: Thursday, […]

CAIR-GA Joins Interfaith ICE Rally Calling for Immigration Reform

(ATLANTA, GA, 5/31/16) – The Georgia chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Georgia) recently joined other religious leaders and immigration reform advocates at an interfaith rally outside the Atlanta headquarters of U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement. Rally participants called for an overhaul of the nation's immigration system, particularly its treatment of immigrants fleeing violence […]

CAIR-MN’s Jaylani Hussein Receives Award From Minnesota/Dakotas American Immigration Lawyers Association

(MINNEAPOLIS, MN, 5/16/16) — The Minnesota/Dakotas Chapter of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), and The Advocates for Human Rights on Friday presented its annual “Immigrant of Distinction Award†to Jaylani Hussein, executive director of the Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MN). The award is in recognition to Hussein’s outstanding contribution to […]

CAIR Joins 326 Civil Rights, Immigration, Community Groups to Urge Supreme Court Approval of Immigration Relief Programs

Amicus Brief features profiles of families whose lives would improve if immigration programs were approved (WASHINGTON, D.C., 3/9/16) — The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today joined a diverse coalition of 326 immigration, civil rights, labor, and social service groups in filing an amicus (“friend of the courtâ€) brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in […]

Converging Bigotry: Nativist Movement Begins to Focus on Muslim Immigration

By Aaron Patrick Flanagan, Imagine 2050 The present Comprehensive Immigration Reform (CIR) debate, as political debates tend to do, has produced much ugliness from the organized nativist movement, both anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim alike. While both rail on separate-but-not-mutually-exclusive talking points, the anti-Muslim sphere has begun focusing more and more prevalently on the issue of immigration. […]

Support Comprehensive Immigration Reform Legislation

Avoid Piecemeal Anti-Immigrant Bills & Amendments The U.S. House of Representatives Should Support Comprehensive Immigration Reform In July the U.S. Senate adopted the bipartisan Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act, S. 744, which provides a pathway to citizenship for the nation’s 11 million undocumented immigrants. While this act is far from perfect, the […]

Tell Congress to Adopt Comprehensive, Not Piecemeal Immigration Reform

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 6/28/13) — CAIR is urging voters to contact their elected representatives and urge them to reject a process of adopting piecemeal measures in the House that would increase racial profiling and unconstitutional detention and also request that they include anti-profiling protections in the immigration bill. This week, the Senate passed a bipartisan comprehensive […]

Support Comprehensive Immigration Reform, Oppose the SAFE Act, Ban All Forms of Profiling

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 6/25/13) — CAIR is urging voters to contact their elected representatives and urge them to reject piecemeal measures in the House that would increase racial profiling and unconstitutional detention and request that they include anti-profiling protections in the immigration bill. Action Alert (1): Oppose the SAFE Act (H.R. 2278) Last week, the House Judiciary Committee […]

Religious leaders, followers call for immigration reform

By Francine Knowles, Chicago Sun-Times Inside a government building in Broadview, Elena Segura was focused on comforting and counseling people. Within the hour, their loved ones — illegal immigrants — were going to be shackled and deported. Outside, dozens of religious leaders and congregants from various faiths called on a higher power for change. From […]

Tell Congress that Immigration Reform Should Ban All Forms of Profiling

CAIR Action Alert #700: Senate Immigration Debate Has Begun! Tell Your Senators that Immigration Reform Should Ban All Forms of Profiling (WASHINGTON, D.C., 6/12/13) — CAIR is urging voters to contact their members of Congress to request that they include anti-profiling protections in the immigration reform bill. The Senate today voted to begin its floor […]

Urge Senate to Include Anti-Profiling Protections in Immigration Reform Bill

Note: The click-and-send letter for this alert is outdated and has been deactivated. Please go to our updated alert to take action for immigration reform!   CAIR Action Alert #695: Urge Senate to Include Anti-Profiling Protections in Immigration Reform Bill (WASHINGTON, D.C., 5-16-13) — CAIR is urging voters to contact their representatives in the U.S. […]

CAIR Action Alert #691: Tell Congress that Immigration Reform Should Ban All Forms of Profiling

CAIR Action Alert #691: Tell Congress that Immigration Reform Should Ban All Forms of Profiling Senate immigration bill fails to address profiling based on religion, national origin (WASHINGTON, D.C., 4/25/13) — CAIR welcomes last week’s immigration reform bill, S. 744, which provides a pathway to citizenship for the nation’s 11 million undocumented immigrants. CAIR Action […]

Tell Congress to Support Comprehensive Immigration Reform

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 4/10/13) — CAIR today joins the thousands of community, labor, immigration, and human rights activists rallying across the country and at the nation’s capital to demand that Congress pass commonsense immigration reform. CAIR is asking all Americans who believe that comprehensive immigration reform is long overdue to urge their U.S. senators and representatives […]

Action: Contact Senators to Urge Support for Immigration Reform

Note: The click-and-send letter for this alert is outdated and has been deactivated. Please go to our updated alert to take action for immigration reform! (This alert remains published for archive purposes)   Action Alert: #687: Action: Contact Senators to Urge Support for Immigration Reform (WASHINGTON, D.C., 1/29/13) – CAIR today welcomed the announcement of […]

Help Reform Immigration Laws

Legislative Fact Sheet (January 1, 2013) The Issue Immigration reform is long overdue and needs to be implemented in a way that is fair, upholds the constitutional values of due process and equality, and ensures human rights. In the absence of comprehensive federal immigration reform, many states have adopted punitive enforcement of immigration laws that […]

CAIR-OH: Group: Anti-Immigration Stance Fuels Hate

Activists for immigrants lashed out at Butler County Sheriff Rick Jones and state Rep. Courtney Combs on Thursday, saying the duo’s push to get an anti-immigration law passed in Ohio fuels hatred and crimes against Hispanics.Officials with the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) Ohio said “it is not a coincidence” that five Hispanic […]

CAIR-FL: Potential Immigration Law Divides Public, Law Enforcement

Neil Lewis’ cramped immigration law office reverberates from the ring of yet another telephone call. Each anxious voice on the other end poses the same question. “Is that going to come here?” Lewis said, echoing his clients’ apprehensive queries. Across the state, Floridians are paying close attention as state lawmakers begin to craft a tough, […]

Video: Jailed Texas Imam Speaks from Immigration Prison

We look at the case of Sheikh Zoubir Bouchikhi, who has been held without bail at a private immigration prison in Houston for the past four months. Bouchikhi, a native of Algeria, has lived in the United States for the past eleven years and has four children, three of them American-born citizens. In 2007, he […]

FL: Megahed Jurors Upset by Immigration Charges

Five of the federal jurors who acquitted Youssef Megahed of explosives charges are speaking out against U.S. immigration officials’ decision to arrest him just four days after the verdict. “It may be ‘legal,’ but that doesn’t make it right,” foreman Gary Meringer said in a statement signed by him and three other jurors. “It strikes […]

CAIR-Sacramento Holds Immigration Forum with DHS Rep

(SACRAMENTO, CA, 7/28/2008) – The Sacramento Valley office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SV) recently held a public forum featuring Department of Homeland Security (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) Regional Lead for Community Outreach Janna Evans and CAIR-SV Executive Committee Member Imran H. Khan, Esq.More than 60 community members attended the forum, which was […]

Latino, Muslim Leaders Warn about Immigration Laws

A Latino pastor and a local Muslim leader presented together a workshop about the consequences the enforcement of current immigration laws are having on American citizens and legal residents of the two communities these two leaders represent. During an inter-faith service organized by We Believe COLORADO on Thursday, June 12, 2008, Pastor Fidel “Butch” Montoya, […]

NJ: Rallies Planned for Imam’s Immigration Hearing

Proponents of a Paterson Imam who is facing deportation hope thousands of his supporters will attend three days of rallies planned around his immigration case. Imam Mohammad Qatanani, head of the Paterson-based Islamic Center of Passaic County, is scheduled to face a U.S. immigration judge in Newark on Thursday. Organizers say at least 18 buses […]

CAIR-CA: Immigration Issues Keep Boy from Family

A teenage boy, separated from his parents and trapped in a one-bedroom apartment for four years.It sounded terrible.Yet that was what seemed to have happened to Muhamed Kamal, a 15-year-old boy who fled Iraq’s violence only to be separated from his family in Jordan and then left behind.Four years on, in another small apartment, in […]

New Immigration Screening Targets Muslims

In the six and a half years since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, federal law-enforcement agencies have secretly established profiling techniques to screen immigrants based on their nationalities, protocols that critics charge encourage the unjustified targeting of Muslims. The profiling, described in a February 2006 Immigration and Customs Enforcement memo obtained by McClatchy Newspapers, shows […]

Immigration Issue Fizzles Again

[Joshua Hoyt is Executive Director of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights] One of the rituals of going after that elusive big-game target, the “Middle-America White Male Voter,” is the hunting trip. The day after Christmas, Mike Huckabee tromped through the Iowa fields with a contingent of newspeople. Huckabee’s hunting party bagged three […]

CAIR-MI: Immigration Issue Heats Up

Michigan’s most diverse city is wading into the emotional national debate about what role local police should play in enforcing federal immigration laws.As Congress mulls what to do with those illegally in the country, Hamtramck officials are preparing an ordinance to forbid police and other city officials from asking anyone about their immigration status unless […]

CAIR-MD/VA: Toddler Denied Immigration Arrives in D.C.

After two years not being allowed entry to the U.S., the 3-year-old son of a Muslim U.S. citizen will be allowed by immigration officials to join his family in Virginia. A spokesman for the Council on American Islamic Relations says the boy and his father arrived at Reagan National Airport about 10:30 p.m. Monday. Abdeloihab […]

CAIR: Immigration Bias Concerns U.S. Muslims

CAIR: IMMIGRATION BIAS CONCERNS U.S. MUSLIMS After a year’s search, worshippers at the Masjid Ibraheem, or Mosque of Abraham, in Newark finally found the right religious leader. Jamal Zahabi is dedicated to the community and has found time to teach prison inmates. A Canadian citizen, originally from Lebanon, he has a knack for bringing together […]

CAIR-AZ: Do Muslim Names Lead to Immigration Delays?

CAIR-AZ: RED TAPE SNAGS ID CHECKS It was springtime when Asad Khan and his wife, Uzma, drove from their Gilbert home to Phoenix to be interviewed by government officials as part of their quest to become U.S. citizens. On the same day, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services checked off “box A” on Uzma Khan’s application. […]

CAIR-CA: New Immigration Reform Group Forms

CAIR-CA: NEW IMMIGRATION REFORM GROUP FORMS A diverse group of religious leaders, labor unions, legal advocates and community leaders joined Thursday to call on Congress to pass immigration reform that would help legalize illegal immigrants, keep migrant families together and protect immigrants’ rights. The group, called the Immigrant Rights Consortium of San Diego County, is […]

CAIR-AZ Hosts ‘Immigration Night’ at Phoenix Mosque

CAIR-AZ HOSTS ‘IMMIGRATION NIGHT’ AT PHOENIX MOSQUE (PHOENIX, AZ, 6/7/07) – Some 100 people turned out June 1 for an “Immigration Night” organized by the Arizona chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-AZ) and hosted by Islamic Community Center of Phoenix. At the event, a representative of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) […]

NYU: Immigration Officials Discriminate Against Muslims

U.S. IMMIGRATION OFFICIALS DISCRIMINATE AGAINST MUSLIMS U.S. immigration officials discriminate against Muslims when processing citizenship applications, according to a New York University Law School think tank. Since 9/11, increased security checks of citizenship applications “have illegally delayed the processing of thousands of applications from Muslim, Arab, Middle Eastern and South Asian men,” according to the […]

CAIR-IL: Sides Recharge on Immigration Issues

CAIR-CHICAGO: SIDES RECHARGE ON IMMIGRATION ISSUES On the eve of a critical month for immigration issues, activists plan a wave of marches, unity vigils and lobbying to try to sway Congressional support for reform this year. The string of citizenship workshops and church basement gatherings across Chicago and the suburbs will mirror mobilizations planned nationwide, […]

CAIR-TX: Downtown Immigration Rally

CAIR-TX: DOWNTOWN IMMIGRATION RALLY WHAT: “Mega-rally” calling for a legalization path for the country’s 12 million illegal immigrantsWHEN: 2 to 5 p.m. today at Dallas City Hall plaza on Young Street WHY: The event commemorates a “mega-march” held last year by illegal immigrants and U.S. supporters that drew 350,000 to 500,000 people in Dallas. That […]

OH: CAIR Joins Panel on Global Immigration

CAIR-OH: SPACES’ NEWEST ART INSTALLATION REFLECTS ITS GLOBAL INTERACTIONS Spaces will have a free panel discussion at 6 p.m. today on the complexities of global immigration, as well as other topics and experiences relevant to the artwork. The discussion will include panelists from the Council on American-Islamic Relations, the American Civil Liberties Union, Case Western […]

CAIR-TX: Halt to Immigration Raids Sought

CAIR-TX: HALT TO IMMIGRATION RAIDS SOUGHT Immigrant-rights activists in the Dallas area called for a halt on Wednesday to raids that have served to round up illegal immigrants in Texas and across the country, saying the status of those unlawfully in the U.S. could change if Congress overhauls immigration laws this year. Raids have increased […]

CAIR-OH: Forum Explores Immigration

CAIR-OH: FORUM EXPLORES IMMIGRATION Ana Mallen was shocked when a neighbor confided that she was wondering whether her hired household help was documented. Having recently moved to Mason from New York City, Mallen said she’s noticed that immigration is often viewed negatively here. Antagonism about local immigration was among the topics at a community forum […]

CAIR-OH to Participate in Immigration Forum

CAIR-OH: IMMIGRATION FORUM WEDNESDAY NIGHT You can talk about immigration issues at a free forum Wednesday night at Miami Unversity’s Hamilton campus. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center together with Miami University-Hamilton, the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) and the NAACP of West Chester/Hamilton/Fairfield/Mason/Lebanon will host the community forum about immigration. Studies conducted […]

CAIR-San Diego: Interfaith Service at Immigration Hearing

(SAN DIEGO, CA, 7/6/06) – Faith leaders and advocates from San Diego and other Southern California cities conducted an interfaith service in front of the Imperial Beach Border Patrol Station in response to a closed-door House Immigration Hearing. The sub-committee conducting the hearings invited groups such as the Friends of the Border Patrol, an organization […]

Action: Support Comprehensive Immigration Reform

Action: Support Comprehensive Immigration Reform (WASHINGTON, DC, 4/4/2006) – CAIR today called on American Muslims and other people of conscience to urge their elected officials to support humane and comprehensive immigration reform. Last year, the U.S. House passed legislation addressing security concerns only. The Senate will be voting on its own version of immigration legislation […]

Action: Call Congress on Torture, Patriot Act, Immigration

Action: Call Congress on Torture, Patriot Act, Immigration CAIR ACTION ALERT #481 Action: Call Congress on Torture, Patriot Act, Immigration (WASHINGTON, D.C., 12/13/05) – CAIR is urging American Muslims and other people of conscience to take advantage of a final opportunity to support civil liberties, oppose the use of torture by American personnel and insist […]

CAIR-LA Hosts Panel On Immigration, Civil Rights (Los Angeles, CA, 3/11/05)

On March 13, the Islamic Society of Orange County (ISOC), the Arab American Council, and the Council on American-Islamic Relations – Southern California (CAIR-LA) will host a panel discussion on immigration and civil rights concerns. The panel is designed to help attendees to learn about current immigration laws, understand how to protect your civil rights […]

Muslim Suffers Brain Damage in TX Immigration Center

A prominent national Islamic civil rights andadvocacy group today called on the Department of Justice to investigate anincident at a Texas immigration facility that left a Jordanian Muslimdetainee in critical condition following a “mysterious” injury to his head. The Washington-based Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) saidKhalfan Omari, 25, is recovering from brain surgery following what […]