CAIR-Ohio Joined Ceasefire Faith Leaders for an Interfaith Prayer and Iftar at Cleveland City Hall

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March
19

(CLEVELAND, OH, 3/19/24) – The Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) joined leaders of the Christian and Jewish faiths at Cleveland City Hall for an interfaith prayer and iftar, breaking of the fast.

Last night began at the steps of City Hall with an interfaith prayer led by Faten Odeh, Rabbi Miriam, and Dr. Shereen Naser.

Ceasefire advocates have been attending Monday night City Council for the past 16 consecutive meetings and have been met with countless restrictions and alleged civil rights violations.

On March 4^th, the ceasefire advocates led their own passing of a ceasefire resolution under what they had formed as the People’s Council, a coalition of interfaith partners and community organizers. Under the People’s Council, the ceasefire resolution passed unanimously, however, they were quickly removed from the rotunda of Cleveland City Hall by law enforcement and threatened with citations.

CAIR-Ohio Staff Attorney, Chance Zurub stated, “For the past 16 weeks, we have built a community dedicated to coming out to Cleveland City Council who remains steadfast despite the restrictions the city has placed on us, whether that be limiting seating, closing down entire hallways, or removing us from publicly gathering. Just as our brothers and sisters in Gaza resist and remain steadfast despite the sheer amount of violence upon them, we will continue to come to Cleveland City Council demanding accountability and a resolution. We would not have been able to do this without the community’s support in sacrificing their Mondays to allow us to pass the People’s Resolution or by allowing us to share iftar together. The people of Cleveland are truly committed to Palestinian liberation and each Monday is a testament to this movement.”

CAIR-Ohio hand delivered letters to Mayor Bibb and Council President Griffin as well as emailed them to give notice of a religious accommodation that needed to be fulfilled, as many ceasefire advocates, attending Monday night City Council meetings would need to break their fast during the meetings.

CAIR-Ohio Executive Director Faten Odeh stated:

“I had hoped that Cleveland City Council would’ve given us a space to break our fast other than on the stairs of the foyer, but regardless of the area we were in, it was a beautiful sight to see with all the different communities and faiths coming together. As soon as the Muslims came out of their chambers they were met with members of the Christian, Jewish and other community members serving the fasting population of Muslims their iftar. Five different people made the main dish of mujadera and CAIR brought the salad to go with.”

Dr. Shereen Naser, a Palestinian Clevelander who led the Christian prayer stated, “When our elected officials refuse to protect us and care of our community, then we will step in and do it. Breaking fast and eating together was a reminder of the world that is possible. It also is a testament to our continued commitment to our cause.”

CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. CAIR-Ohio’s mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims. CAIR-Ohio has offices in Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland.

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.

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CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland & Northern Ohio Executive Director Faten Odeh, fodeh@cair.com, 216-830-2247

CAIR-Ohio Calls on Case Western Reserve University to Reverse Suspension of Students for Justice in Palestine

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March
8

(CLEVELAND, OH, 3/8/24) – The Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) today urged Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) to reverse the decision to suspend the student organization, Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP).

According to a statement posted on the Instagram page of CWRU’s SJP, the university imposed an interim suspension on SJP for allegations members of the student organization have deemed to be a demonstration of the university’s targeting of students who support Palestinian voices.

The Instagram post stated, “This allegation by CWRU demonstrates that students who support Palestinian voices are guilty until proven innocent.”

CAIR-Ohio was contacted by members of the SJP in the Fall of 2023 for assistance in what the students felt was targeting and intimidation by the university administration.

CAIR-Ohio Executive Director Faten Odeh stated:

“CAIR-Ohio met with the university several times about their frequent contacting and questioning of the students, which students expressed caused them to feel unsafe and unwelcome. When we met with the administration, they told us that they were ‘waiting for the temperature to cool down.’ We are disappointed in Case’s decision to continue this pattern of behavior that is causing the students to feel that they cannot express their support for human rights for Palestinians.”

According to the students, the interim suspension of recognition prevents students from receiving any student organization privileges such as receiving funding.

In a statement sent to us by the students the members of the CWRU SJP reported allegations of relentless attacks and harassment from President Kaler’s administration:

“For the past two years under President Kaler’s administration, Case Western Reserve University’s Students for Justice in Palestine has suffered from relentless attacks and harassment. Now, students’ safety and academics are endangered as CWRU suspends our organization and launches an investigation on students advocating for Palestinian justice. Our futures are hanging in the balance by the CWRU administration’s prioritization of outside actors over students- a betrayal that has permanently cemented CWRU’s complicity in genocide in future history books.”

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.

Become a Fan of the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio on Facebook

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Subscribe to the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio’s Twitter Feed

https://twitter.com/CAIRCleveland

Subscribe to the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio’s YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@caircleveland

Follow the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio on Instagram

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Donate to the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio

https://caircleveland.com/donate/

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CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland & Northern Ohio Executive Director Faten Odeh, fodeh@cair.com, 216-830-2247

Register for the 9th Annual National Muslim Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill

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March
4

Muslims from across the nation will urge Congress to oppose Israel’s genocide and occupation of Palestinians

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), in partnership with the US Council of Muslim Organizations (USCMO), is encouraging members of the American Muslim community to register for the 9th annual National Muslim Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill, slated to occur on Monday, April 29, and Tuesday, April 30, and May 1st, at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.

In order to schedule all meetings for attendees in a timely manner, USCMO urges all interested participants to register for this crucial event at least one month in advance. The deadline for registration is set for Friday, March 29.

REGISTER HERE

Representatives from national, state, and local Muslim organizations and communities are strongly encouraged to join this two-day advocacy event. Delegates and activists will engage with congressional offices to address the pressing issues affecting American Muslims amidst today’s political landscape.

The issues we’ll be focusing on include combating the alarming increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes, safeguarding the free speech of Americans, ensuring the U.S. government does not remain complicit in Israel’s genocide and occupation of Palestinians, and more.

Participants of past events have shared their experiences through photos and commentary on social media platforms, using the hashtag #MuslimHillDay.

In a statement, USCMO Secretary-General Oussama Jammal said, “Mobilizing Muslims to engage with their members of Congress is a time-honored tradition, and National Muslim Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill underscores our community’s commitment to civic engagement, ensuring that our voices are heard on issues that directly impact our communities, especially before a national election.”

In a statement, USCMO National Board Chair and Muslim Legal Fund of America Chief Executive Officer Arshia Ali-Khan said, “Standing up for our rights and concerns is not just a Muslim duty but an embodiment of American principles, reflecting American Muslim’s dedication to the American values of justice, equality, and freedom for all individuals.”

During the seventh annual National Muslim Advocacy Day last year, over 500 delegates from 20 states convened with more than 200 elected officials and congressional staffers.

For further details regarding the event or inquiries about how your Muslim organization or community can participate, please reach out to USCMO at: advocacy@uscmo.org.

USCMO is a coalition of a number of leading national and local Muslim organizations that seeks to promote effective communication and coordination between all American Muslim organizations and sponsor Muslim civic engagement for the good of the nation.

Founding members of USCMO: American Muslims for Palestine (AMP), Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA), Muslim Alliance in North America (MANA), Muslim American Society (MAS), Muslim Legal Fund of America (MLFA), Muslim Ummah of North America (MUNA), The Mosque Cares (Ministry of Imam W. Deen Mohammed).

END

MEDIA CONTACT:

Robert McCaw

Steering Committee Chair

202-742-6448

advocacy@uscmo.org

CAIR-OHIO WELCOMES ARREST OF WELL-KNOWN ANTI-PALESTINIAN AGITATOR

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February
16

(CLEVELAND, OH, 2/16/24) – The Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) welcomes arrest of Mr. Alexander (Alec) Popivker, a well-known agitator on surrounding college campuses in the Cleveland area.

According to The Cauldron, Cleveland State University’s (CSU) student publication, the administration of the university sent out an email on Wed. Feb. 14th to campus community announcing the arrest of Popivker for aggravated menacing and ethnic intimidation.

Popivker has a long history of targeting Palestinians, Arabs and Muslims on campuses, at peaceful protests, Palestinian-owned businesses and even attempting to break into the Cleveland office of CAIR.

The arrest follows an investigation involving a video that went viral of two CSU students leaving the Student Center and Popviker filming them as he allegedly hurled insults at the two students.

The Cleveland chapter of the Jewish Federation initially shared the video on their Instagram account but removed it after being contacted by CAIR-Ohio and CSU. The Federation put out the following statement on Feb. 8,

“Earlier this week we re-posted a video that appeared on an account dedicated to fighting antisemitism. We appreciate that Cleveland State University took this matter seriously and investigated the incident immediately. While the words and actions of the two students on camera do reflect the growing tension on college campuses that must be addressed, it is unforgiveable that the exchange now appears to be manufactured by an individual who does not share our community’s values. In fact, the individual in question has been barred from attending Federation events for more than a year. Therefore we have removed the post and call on others to take similarly decisive actions against those who look to perpetuate hare through exploitive tactics.”

CAIR-Ohio, Executive Director Faten Odeh commented, “We welcome the arrest of this individual who has been terrorizing the Palestinian, Arab, and Muslim community. We hope that this is a demonstration of accountability that will prevent this individual and others from causing further trouble. Hopefully our students and business owners can feel safe at campus and at work now.”

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.

Become a Fan of the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio on Facebook

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Follow the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio on Instagram

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Donate to the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio

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CAIR-OHIO CONGRATULATES CITY OF TOLEDO FOR PASSING CEASEFIRE RESOLUTION

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February
15

(TOLEDO, OH, 2/15/24) – The Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) celebrates the City of Toledo for joining cities across the country in passing a ceasefire resolution in Gaza on Tues. Feb. 14.

Originally the vote was to take place on Jan. 17 but was postponed for nearly a month.

Toledo humanitarians worked tirelessly for months to advocate for their city to stand against genocide and call for an end to the violence by Israel that has claimed the lives men, women, and children with an estimated 30,000 civilians martyred, nearly 70,000 injured and tens of thousands missing under the rubble or held hostage by Israel.

Councilman Martinez stated, “This is an attempt to create a pathway and really come together as a community…I don’t pretend to understand the pain and suffering on both sides of the conflict but what I do say is, I appreciate the Council on working together.”

Watch Toledo City Council Meeting: VIDEO

Dr. Zaheer Hasan, of United Muslims Association of Toledo, (UMAT) said, “The Toledo community of diverse backgrounds and faiths came together and advocated for the City of Toledo to call for a permanent ceasefire and acknowledge the loss of life in Gaza.”

Dr. Jomana Al-Hinti of American Muslims for Palestine (AMP) said, “We are grateful to Toledo City Council members for standing up for what’s right, emphasizing Toledo’s status as a Certified Welcoming Community. We thank them for reflecting their constituents demands for peace and diplomacy to end this crisis in Palestine. This is a victory for humanity and peace-loving humans everywhere.”

Councilwoman McPherson commented at the meeting, “I stand in support of this resolution. War is not good nowhere; everyone is affected by it and that’s why I didn’t have a problem supporting it [the resolution]. It matters not where you’re from if you’re from Toledo, we represent you.”

CAIR-Ohio, Executive Director Faten Odeh commended the people of Toledo for their efforts,

“We are proud of the Toledo community for their steadfast advocacy for the suffering people of Gaza. City by city, we intend to send a strong message from the U.S. to Gaza that Americans do not condone the Biden administration’s unwavering support for the Israeli government’s atrocities against the Palestinian people.”

“Our hope is that the City of Cleveland will take note of the surrounding cities who have chosen humanity over fear of losing campaign support. It is time that our representatives reflect the will of the people, and that will is to end the murder of men, women and children. The International Court of Justice has identified Israel’s actions as plausible genocide. Like Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “there comes a time when silence becomes betrayal,” and for our elected officials to be silent during this ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people is a betrayal to humanity.”

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.

Become a Fan of the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/CAIRCleveland

Subscribe to the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio’s Twitter Feed

https://twitter.com/CAIRCleveland

Subscribe to the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio’s YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@caircleveland

Follow the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio on Instagram

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Donate to the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio

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CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland & Northern Ohio Executive Director Faten Odeh, fodeh@cair.com, 216-830-2247

ACTION ALERT: Urge Members of Congress to Oppose Funding for Israel’s Genocide

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February
5

ACTION ALERT: Urge Members of Congress to Oppose Funding for Israel’s Genocide

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, is inviting community members to sign its action alert urging members of Congress to oppose bills that would send more funds to the Israeli government as it continues its genocidal campaign in Gaza.

TAKE ACTION

House Speaker Mike Johnson declared that a stand-alone bill with a staggering $17.6 billion for Israel is set for a vote this week. Meanwhile, on the Senate side, Senator Schumer has announced that the Senate will finally vote on the long-awaited supplemental package of $105 billion, which provides funds for Ukraine, Israel, the Indo-Pacific, and the US-Mexico border.

Senator Bernie Sanders has put forth an amendment in the Senate bill to eliminate $10.1 billion earmarked for offensive weaponry to the Israeli government. Denouncing the death toll and suffering in Gaza as unacceptable, Sanders is calling for “zero funding for the continuation of Netanyahu’s illegal, immoral war against the Palestinian people.” Advocates from the coalition will be urging Senators to support Sanders’ amendment. On the House side, advocates will be calling on Representatives to vote “NO” on sending $17.6 billion to Israel.

END

CONTACT: CAIR National Deputy Director Edward Ahmed Mitchell, 404-285-9530, e-Mitchell@cair.com; CAIR Government Affairs Director Robert McCaw, 202-742-6448, rmccaw@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, ihooper@cair.com, CAIR National Communications Manager Ismail Allison, 202-770-6280, iallison@cair.com

CAIR-Ohio, JVP say Cleveland City Council President Ignores Jewish Residents Calling for a Ceasefire

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January
30

(CLEVELAND, OH, 1/30/24) – The Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) and the Cleveland chapter of Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP) today said that Cleveland City Council President, Blaine Griffin is ignoring the wishes of many Jewish residents by stating that he would not support a ceasefire resolution until ceasefire supporters meet with members of the Jewish community, despite having heard from several members of the Cleveland Jewish community in support for a ceasefire in Gaza.

For more than 11 consecutive weeks, Clevelanders have been showing up for public comment at Cleveland City Hall. What started as an outcry against public statements of support for Israel made by Mayor Justin Bibb and Councilman Blaine Griffin turned into pleas for a ceasefire resolution as more than 30,000 civilians have been murdered by Israel’s genocide on Gaza.

Last night, president of Cleveland City Council, Blaine Griffin released a statement that he would not entertain the idea of a ceasefire resolution until conversations are had between ceasefire advocates and the Jewish community. He introduced the conflict as “ancient”.

Many members of the Cleveland Jewish community are outraged by Councilman Griffin’s statement. Many expressed feelings of being ignored and devalued as members of the Jewish community.

Eric Resnick, member of Jewish Voice for Peace Cleveland stated,

“I stand in support of this call for a ceasefire and I do so unequivocally. As a Jew myself, I do not stand in solidarity with Israel. Many Jews do not stand in solidarity with Israel. Many Clevelanders do not stand in solidarity with Israel. Some Clevelanders have lost family and friends to Israel’s unconscionable bombing campaign against the civilians of Gaza, and I stand in solidarity with them. Bibb and Griffin seem to think it is okay to use their official capacity to dehumanize Clevelanders with Palestinian roots and treat them as Israel treats Palestinians. Shame on them.”

Estelle Raskin a member of Jewish Voice for Peace and resident of Ward 15, stated,

“Griffin’s statement that the council’s passing a ceasefire resolution is predicated on “Palestinians sitting down with the Jewish community” means other Jewish people, or to be more exact- the Jewish Federation. Many Cleveland Jews and Palestinians have already been meeting, sharing meals, and organizing together. Griffin’s comment is both misguided and discriminatory. It implies that organizations like the Jewish Federation define and hold jurisdiction over what it means to be an American Jew today. The president of Cleveland City Council is sanctifying the Federation’s political endorsement of normalized oppression and indiscriminate violence against Palestinians, while delegitimizing a whole spectrum of Jewish diversity and advocacy for human rights. I am one of many Cleveland Jews who has been asking for a ceasefire in Gaza, and I am aghast at this outright refusal to recognize Jewish voices that have been side-by-side with the Palestinians calling for the violence to stop. Shame on Griffin and city hall for being beholden to one organization in the face of a genocide of the Palestinian people. Now is a time to look beyond the precariousness of politics and to put something on the line. What can be more important than protecting the safety and dignity of all people?”

One of the most notable voices that echoed through the chambers of City Hall was Jewish Councilwoman Rebecca Maurer of Ward 12, who stated:

“For weeks I have sat in this chair and tried to watch the public commenters with a focus and intensity that I hope desperately would convey some of my shared anguish. I have written statements calling for a ceasefire and have had dozens of conversations with people on this topic from both sides of the wall but the truth is nothing is a substitute for saying the words in this council chambers despite weeks of trying it is clear to me this body will not pass a full ceasefire resolution or even give one the dignity of a vote if it is introduced.”

Video to Councilwoman Maurer’s Statement

Omar Kurdi, President of Arab Americans of Cleveland – Young Professionals Network said:

“For seven weeks, Arab Americans (Muslims and Christians) including Palestinian Americans, and other allies from the Cleveland community have asked Cleveland City Council to pass a ceasefire resolution. This resolution is not meant to solve any issue, it will not directly end the genocide in Gaza, but it would have been a clear recognition of our community’s pain, mourning, and hurt. For years, Cleveland has decorated itself as a city for all. However, and in the last few months, it truly felt like Cleveland is not accepting, welcoming, or respectful of its Arab and Muslim people. I personally have spoken in the City Council condemning violence against everyone, and calling on our city to humanize our community, increase protection for marginalized communities, and create a mechanism to combat Islamophobia, Xenophobia, and Antisemitism. What happened? A Palestinian and Muslim owned business got vandalized, Arab and Muslim students are being attacked and harassed, and I have fallen victim to online harassment. I personally met with Council President Blaine Griffin in private, and with other community leaders. I met with several council members. I sent countless emails. We shared the sentiments of our community in these meetings, but we were still ignored, and in some instances, forced to go routes that would have been emotionally damaging to our community to simply get a resolution that recognizes our community’s grief. I am disappointed with the council’s decision to not go forward with a resolution. I am even more disappointed with their sentiment that we are asking them to solve or comment on an international matter, when in reality, this is closer to home than ever. Cleveland City Council issued a resolution on Ukraine in four days. What makes Palestine different?“

CAIR Ohio Executive Director, Faten Odeh said:

“To ignore the voices of so many Clevelanders, who have come together for humanity to call for an end to the violence is beyond neglect for one’s duty as a leader. Councilman Griffin should acknowledge the voices of Cleveland Jewish residents that have been advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza for months and not ignore them in favor of one entity. “

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.

Become a Fan of the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio on Facebook

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Follow the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio on Instagram

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Donate to the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio

DONATE

– END –

CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland & Northern Ohio Executive Director Faten Odeh, fodeh@cair.com, 216-830-2247

CAIR-Cleveland Urges Passage of Toledo City Council Gaza Ceasefire Resolution

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January
17

(CLEVELAND, OH, 1/17/24) – The Cleveland chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Cleveland) today urged the passage of a Toledo City Council resolution on a Gaza ceasefire resolution at tonight’s meeting. If passed, Toledo will join other cities across the United States in passing a ceasefire resolution for Gaza.

The vote will take place today, Jan. 17, at 4 pm at Toledo City Hall, One Government Center 640 Jackson Street, Toledo, OH 43604.

To urge Toledo City Council to pass the ceasefire resolution click here: Urge Toledo City Council for a Ceasefire Now

This resolution comes after weeks of humanitarians urging their Toledo City Council members to introduce a ceasefire resolution. During this time, an estimated 30,000 civilians in Gaza have been killed by the Israeli Occupation Force, including many women and children. The resolution would send a clear message that the City of Toledo stands against genocide and calls for an end to the violence.

Dr. Zaheer Hasan, of United Muslims Association of Toledo, (UMAT) said, “The Toledo community of diverse backgrounds and faiths came together and advocated for the City of Toledo to call for a permanent ceasefire and acknowledge the loss of life in Gaza.”

Dr. Jomana Al-Hinti of American Muslims for Palestine (AMP) said, “We have several community members that have lost many members of their family, between 40-100 in Gaza in the past three months and having city council call for a ceasefire will show that the City of Toledo cares about it’s citizens.”

This news comes as Israel is currently on trial for genocide at the International Court of Justice with South Africa as the plaintiff.

CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland and North Executive Director Faten Odeh commended the people of Toledo for their efforts, “I am so proud of the community of Toledo for their steadfastness every day, who stood out on the streets protesting, attended meetings with public elected officials and have relentlessly advocated for the suffering people of Gaza. City by city, we intend to send a strong message from the U.S. to Gaza that Americans do not condone the Biden administration’s unwavering support for the Israeli government’s atrocities against the Palestinian people.”

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.

Become a Fan of the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/CAIRCleveland

Subscribe to the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio’s Twitter Feed

https://twitter.com/CAIRCleveland

Subscribe to the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio’s YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@caircleveland

Follow the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/cairohiocleveland/

Donate to the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio

https://caircleveland.com/donate/

– END –

CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland & Northern Ohio Executive Director Faten Odeh, fodeh@cair.com, 216-830-2247

CAIR-Cleveland Calls on Law Enforcement to Consider Hate Crimes Charges for Alleged Anti-Palestinian Attack

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January
10

(CLEVELAND, OH, 1/10/24) – The Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) today called on law enforcement authorities to consider hate crime charges against an alleged anti-Palestinian attack on the owner of Algebra Teahouse, who was reportedly hit multiple times by an pro-Israel extremist in the parking lot of his establishment.

SEE VIDEO.

Ayman Alkayali, owner of Algebra Teahouse said this comes after multiple incidents from the same alleged aggressor. Law enforcement and city officials have been called on multiple occasions to address the verbal and physical harassment of Alkayali, his son and his customers. This series of reported incidents allegedly escalated to an increased level of danger yesterday, Jan. 9, around 2 p.m.

Alkayali stated: “He showed up outside my teahouse against police orders and my son called the police right away. He started to drive fast and I quickly became concerned for the safety of my customers and residential neighbors, so I went out to the parking lot to inform him these safety concerns and that’s when he proceeded to drive into my body at least six times until I fell on to the ground in pain.”

Alkayali stated that after the alleged aggressor caused him bodily injury during the course of the vehicular assault, the individual reportedly pulled out his phone to record his victim. “He came out of his van and started filming me,” said Alkayali. According to Alkayali, the police arrived on the scene and arrested the extremist.

In a statement, CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland & Northern Ohio Executive Director Faten Odeh said:

“We have reached out to law enforcement and our public officials multiple times about anti-Palestinian extremists, and they have not done enough to protect Clevelanders from this undue harm.

“This alleged act of violence really comes from the top as our leaders set the tone for their constituents to follow. For more than two months, we have been calling on Cleveland City Council to pass a ceasefire resolution that promotes peace across the globe and decries rising anti-Palestinian and anti-Jewish discrimination in Cleveland.

“Week after week, our city leaders have ignored the growing calls of Clevelanders resulting in Cleveland residents like Mr. Alkayali allegedly being physically and emotionally harmed by their neglect to serve as our leaders for all Cleveland residents.”

Washington, D.C., based CAIR release updated civil rights data showing that it has continued to receive a “staggering” increase in complaints of anti-Muslim or anti-Arab bias over the past two months.

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.

Become a Fan of the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio on Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/CAIRClevelandSubscribe to the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio’s Twitter Feedhttps://twitter.com/CAIRClevelandSubscribe to the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio’s YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@cairclevelandFollow the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/cairohiocleveland/Donate to the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohiohttps://caircleveland.com/donate/

– END –

CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland & Northern Ohio Executive Director Faten Odeh, fodeh@cair.com, 216-830-2247

CAIR-OHIO Congratulates Akron’s New Muslim Mayor Shammas Malik

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January
4

(CLEVELAND, OH, 01/04/24) – On Sunday, Dec. 31, Shammas Malik was officially sworn in on a Quran as Akron’s 63^rd Mayor.

Malik served on Akron’s City Council since 2019 and contributed to a variety of monumental initiatives including the Gaza Ceasefire Resolution passed in the Fall of 2023.

CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland Executive Director, Faten Odeh stated,

“CAIR-Ohio would like to congratulate Mayor Shammas Malik on his new position as Mayor for the City of Akron. We hope he will be an example for all Muslims aspiring to achieve positions of leadership and make a positive impact in our world.”

Saturday, January 6 will be the ceremonial swearing in at EJ Thomas Hall. To register for the event please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/swearing-in-ceremony-tickets-769170227857?aff=oddtdtcreator

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.

– END –

CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland & Northern Ohio Executive Director Faten Odeh, fodeh@cair.com, 216-830-2247