CAIR-Cleveland

CAIR-Ohio Joins Press Conference Celebrating Introduction of Multiracial Curriculum Bill

Posted by: cairclev Tags: There is no tags | Categories: News

May
22

(CLEVELAND, OH – 5/19/23) – On Tuesday, May 16, CAIR-Ohio and various organizations across Ohio joined OPAWL for a press conference about the “Educating for Ohio’s Future” Campaign, which promotes a newly introduced bill that focuses on implementing multicultural perspectives into Ohio’s public-school curriculum.

House Bill (HB) 171 will benefit Ohio children of all backgrounds and will include histories, stories, and societal contributions of various groups into the curriculum. Often children of underrepresented groups feel left out and unheard in their schools, and this bill seeks to include their perspectives in the classroom and to give all students a worthwhile education for brighter futures.

CAIR-Cleveland is spearheading CAIR-Ohio’s efforts as part of the steering committee for this multiracial curriculum campaign that includes diverse communities and organizations across Ohio in a collaborative effort to push for an accurate reflection of Ohio’s communities in the social studies curriculum.

CAIR-Ohio Cleveland Chapter Interim Executive Director, Faten Odeh, spoke about the importance of a curriculum that reflects all Ohioans.

“As a former social studies teacher, it makes me happy to know there is legislation being introduced to ensure that all students in Ohio can feel a sense of dignity, respect, value and pride in the classroom.”

“What we learn in the classroom carries with us for the rest of our lives and directly impacts how we live, how we treat others and how we function as part of the human race,” said Odeh. “For students to know and understand that people who look like them had and have a role in shaping the world that we live in, will inspire young minds to look forward to their future as citizens of this country.”

“My hope is Ohio will be an example for every state in our great nation,” Odeh concluded.

CAIR-Ohio is committed to ensuring that all students have access to an education that recognizes and celebrates the rich backgrounds of Ohioans.

Watch the full press conference here.

Learn more about the Educating for Ohio’s Future campaign here.

The CAIR-Cleveland & Northern Ohio chapter is excited to work with students and continue to collaborate on how to better our community and state. To book a speaker or a workshop from CAIR, please contact us directly at 216.830.2247 or email events@cleveland.cair.com.

CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.

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

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Donate to the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio
https://caircleveland.com/donate/

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

CAIR-Ohio Representatives Speak at Kent State University-Trumbull about Hate Crimes on Muslims in Ohio

Posted by: cairclev Tags: Hate Crime, Hate Crime Prevention, Kent State University-Trumbull | Categories: Event, News

May
18

(CLEVELAND, OH, 04/11/23) – On Tuesday, April 11, the interim executive director and civil rights advocate of the Cleveland and Northern Ohio Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, Ohio (CAIR-Ohio) presented for students at Kent State University – Trumbull on the topic of hate crimes in Ohio.

CAIR-Ohio was invited by Dr. Mary Wilson, a professor of the university’s victimology course. During their presentation, CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland and Northern Ohio Interim Executive Director Faten Odeh and Civil Rights Advocate Chance Zurub presented about Islam, Islamophobia in America, the absence of explicit hate crimes statutes in Ohio, and implored the students to brainstorm the best way to address the gaps in reporting and how Ohio legislation could better address hate crimes.

“Simply calling a hate crime “ethnic intimidation” [as the Ohio legislation refers to] weakens the severity of the crime. The students brought up some good points that technically a hate crime does not explicitly apply to only ethnicity; it can apply to an array of other categories such as how people either label others or how individuals choose to identify. I was really impressed by the interest the students at Kent State University-Trumbull showed in making real change by brainstorming ways to address our legislators about the Ohio crime statutes or lack thereof,” said Faten Odeh.

CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.

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

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/

CAIR Joins USCMO in Inviting Community Members to Register for 8th Annual National Muslim Advocacy Day

Posted by: cairclev Tags: There is no tags | Categories: News

April
18

(CLEVELAND, OH, 4/18/23) – The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today joined the US Council of Muslim Organizations (USCMO) to invite members of the American Muslim community to register for the 8th annual National Muslim Advocacy Day.

This year, the National Muslim Advocacy Day will again take place in person on Monday, June 12, and Tuesday, June 13 at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.

USCMO is encouraging participants to register at least one month before the event, and no later than Sunday, June 4.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

All representatives for national, state, and local Muslim organizations and communities are encouraged to register for this two-day advocacy event. Muslim delegates and activists will meet with congressional offices to discuss the most pressing issues impacting American Muslims in today’s political climate.

Past participants have posted photos and commentary about National Muslim Advocacy Day on social media using the hashtag #MuslimHillDay.

“We are thrilled to announce the 8th National Muslim Advocacy Day at our nation’s capital, bringing together hundreds of American Muslims from across the country to meet in person with their state’s congressional representatives,” said USCMO Secretary-General Oussama Jammal. “This event is a testament to the importance of civic engagement and demonstrates that democracy works best when everyone’s voice is heard, including American Muslims.”

“National Muslim Advocacy Day provides an invaluable platform for American Muslims to visit Washington, D.C., and inform their elected representatives about the critical issues affecting our community,” said CAIR Government Affairs Director and USCMO National Muslim Advocacy Day Steering Committee Chair Robert S. McCaw. “As we approach a decade of #MuslimHillDay, it has become an integral part of our democracy, during which congressional offices and staff members meet with their Muslim constituents and foster a productive dialogue.”

Among the issues being advocated for, USCMO advocacy day delegates will be calling on Congress to reintroduce Congresswomen Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and Jan Schakowsky and SenatorCorey Booker’s Combating International Islamophobia Act legislation to address the rise in incidents of Islamophobia worldwide.

For those who would like additional advocacy techniques and a more in-depth rundown on the advocacy day’s focused issues, there will be a series of online training seminars for those registered before the event. USCMO will also provide a day-of-event training at Congress for all participating Muslim community members.

Last year, more than 300 delegates from 20 states met with more than 200 elected officials and congressional staffers during the seventh annual National Muslim Advocacy Day.

For more information about the event or how your Muslim organization or community can participate, please contact the USCMO at: advocacy@uscmo.org.

You can also find more information on the history of the event and view videos from previous years here.

CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.

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

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CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland Chapter Interim Executive Director Faten Odeh, 216.830.2247, fodeh@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202.744.7726, ihooper@cair.com

More Than 400 Guests Attend CAIR-Cleveland Ramadan Iftar and Benefit

Posted by: cairclev Tags: Interfaith Event, Ramadan, Ramadan Iftar | Categories: Event, Interfaith Event, Interfaith Relations, News

April
18

(CLEVELAND, OH, 4/1/23) – On Saturday, April 1 the Cleveland chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-OHIO) held its 14th Annual Ramadan Iftar Banquet with members of the Muslim and interfaith communities.

More than 400 guests attended the iftar, which was held at LaVilla Conference and Banquet Center in Cleveland, Ohio. (“Iftar” is the meal eaten after sunset each day during Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting.)

The guest speaker was CAIR National’s Board Chair Dr. Manal Fakhoury. Dr. Fakhoury is also the president and CEO of Fakhoury Leadership International. The CAIR-Cleveland & Northern Ohio chapter was honored to be the first chapter Dr. Fakhoury visited since becoming CAIR National’s board chair.

Alauddin Alauddin, Vice President of Muslim Family Services of Ohio (MFSOH) and the evening’s inspirational speaker, urged attendees to continue to support CAIR’s work to challenge Islamophobia and protect civil rights.

Tessa Xuan, statewide co-director of OPAWL, shared information about the Multiracial Curriculum Campaign, which CAIR-Ohio is a coalition steering team member.

In addition, CAIR presented their I-CAIR Volunteer of the Year Award to volunteers Nur and Zayna Makupson, the Social Justice Award to Dr. Shereen Naser, the Generosity Award to Holyland International Imports, and the Community Service Award to Dr. Simee & Masroor Malik. Outgoing Executive Director Julia Shearson was presented with the Above & Beyond Award for 20 years of her selfless dedication and service to the community.

CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.

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

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CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland Chapter Interim Executive Director Faten Odeh, 216.830.2247, fodeh@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202.744.7726, ihooper@cair.com

CAIR-Ohio Attends United Muslim Association of Toledo Iftar Dinner at Toledo Government Center

Posted by: cairclev Tags: Ramadan, Ramadan Iftar, Toledo | Categories: News

April
17

(CLEVELAND, OHIO, 4/13/2023) – Representatives of the Cleveland Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, recently attended the “Ramadan Kareem” Iftar Dinner in Toledo, Ohio. Ramadan, which began on March 23, is the Islamic holy month of self-discipline, charity, fasting, and spiritual renewal. Muslims end their daily fast after sunset with a meal known as iftar.

The Ramadan iftar, which was co-sponsored by the United Muslim Association of Toledo (UMAT) and Toledo intergovernmental agencies, was held at One Government Center in downtown Toledo. Co-hosts included the City of Toledo Community Relations Commission along with Welcome TLC (Toledo/Lucas County).

Dr. Nadeem Khan, UMAT Secretary, emceed the event. Speakers included Dr. Samina Z. Hasan who shared highlights of the many collaborative initiatives and community service projects that UMAT has worked on since its founding in 1996. Dr. Syed Maseehur Rehman, President of UMAT, described the patriotism and contributions of Toledo’s Muslim community from all walks of life.

Participants included city and county officials as well as members of the Ohio legislature and judiciary. The Mayor of Toledo, Wade Kapszukiewicz, presented an official proclamation to UMAT on behalf of the City of Toledo. In his remarks, the mayor decried the politics of fear and division sweeping the nation in contrast to Toledo’s remarkable history of embracing diversity and celebrating different cultures even in the darkest times. He pointed to the Depression era period between the two world wars, when, in 1931, Toledo, Ohio joined with the City of Toledo in Spain as sister cities, becoming the first American city to have a sister city. The Mayor said the City of Toledo will continue to carry forth its vision of being a welcoming city that focusses on making friends with the world.

The President of the Board of County Commissions, Pete Gerken, commended UMAT for their spirit of civic engagement and for helping to make the region a great place to live. Lucas County Commissioners Tina Wozniak and Lisa Sobecki warmly welcomed the assembled audience of more than 250 guests and spoke of how much they had learned from their friendships with the Muslim community. The event was rounded out by a spiritual message from Imam Farooq Abouelzahab on the essence of Ramadan as being a time to struggle for victory over selfishness and greed in order to manifest humaneness and compassion.

“It was an honor to attend the Ramadan Kareem Iftar with the Muslim and interfaith communities in Toledo,” said Faten Odeh, CAIR-Ohio Cleveland Chapter Interim Executive Director. “As the new CAIR executive director for our Cleveland and Northern Ohio region, it was great to learn about the amazing strides the Toledo Muslim community has made over their long and rich history in the region.”

To learn more about the City of Toledo Iftar, click here.

CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.

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

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CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland Chapter Executive Director Faten Odeh, 216.830.2247, fodeh@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202.744.7726, ihooper@cair.com.

CAIR-OHIO CONDEMNS VIOLENCE AGAINST WORSHIPPERS AT AL-AQSA MOSQUE

Posted by: cairclev Tags: Global, Palestine | Categories: News

April
6

(CLEVELAND, OH – 4/6/23) – The Ohio affiliate of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) strongly condemns the recent violent attacks on Palestinian worshippers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. According to reports, Israeli occupying forces stormed the mosque during prayer and assaulted worshippers, resulting in dozens of injuries.

SEE: Israeli forces attack worshippers in violent Al-Aqsa Mosque raid

As an organization dedicated to combating Islamophobia and protecting the civil liberties of Muslims, CAIR-Ohio stands in solidarity with the Palestinian people and condemns the violent abuse against innocent worshippers.

In a statement, CAIR-Ohio, Columbus & Cincinnati Executive Director Amina Barhumi said:

“We are outraged by the brutal attack on Palestinian worshippers at Al-Aqsa Mosque, which is especially egregious considering it is the holiest month for Muslims. This is a blatant violation of their fundamental right to practice their religion freely and without fear. The Israeli government’s systematic oppression of Palestinians, including the use of violence against innocent civilians, is a form of institutionalized Islamophobia that must be addressed by the international community.”

Following the initial attack, Israel continued its assault on the Gaza Strip, with airstrikes targeting civilian areas and causing widespread destruction and loss of life. CAIR-Ohio condemns these acts of aggression against innocent Palestinians and calls for an immediate end to the violence.

SEE: Israel attacks Gaza Strip, Al-Aqsa Mosque

CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland & Northern Ohio Interim Executive Director Faten Odeh added, “We urge the US government to take immediate action to address this grave injustice and to defend the human rights of Palestinians and to pass the ‘Combating International Islamophobia Act’, which would track these incidents globally. We also call on all people of conscience to speak out against this violence and to support efforts to end the illegal Israeli occupation.”

CAIR-Ohio joins the global community in demanding that Israel immediately ceases its violent attacks on Palestinian worshippers and respect the human rights of all Palestinians and the holy site of Al-Aqsa, especially during this holy month of Ramadan.

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.

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CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio, Columbus & Cincinnati Executive Director Amina Barhumi, abarhumi@cair.com, 614-763-6557; CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland & Northern Ohio Interim Executive Director Faten Odeh, fodeh@cair.com, 216-830-2247

CAIR-Ohio Welcomes CSU’s Decision to Ban Man Who Allegedly Targeted Palestinian, Middle Eastern and Muslim Students

Posted by: cairclev Tags: CAIR-Cleveland | Categories: News, recent news

February
20

(CLEVELAND, OH 2/20/2023) – The Cleveland chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, Ohio (CAIR-Ohio) today welcomed Cleveland State University’s (CSU) decision to ban an extremist anti-Palestinian rabbi from campus grounds after allegations that he repeatedly harassed students who advocate for Palestinian human rights.

SEE: Rabbi arrested, banned from Cleveland universities over his anti-Palestinian activism

SEE: Rabbi Popivker banned from CSU campus; plans to appeal

A Cleveland area rabbi, Alec Popivker has long caused concern at area universities because of his alleged harassment of Palestinian students. He has been accused of provoking protesters at local pro-Palestine demonstrations and allegedly cyber-harassing individuals with Palestinian roots or pro-Palestinian views online.

One such alleged online campaign against a CSU law student prompted the student to reportedly file an order of protection against Popivker last fall. Due to reported safety concerns, the court order was granted, but was allegedly violated by Popivker.

SEE: CSU PD arrested Popivker and removed him from campus grounds for violating a protection order

SEE: CSU silent on Alec Popivker’s return; persona non grata hearing

SEE: Cleveland State temporarily bans Alec Popivker; Persona non grata case pending

SEE: CSU courtyard regular arrested for violating protection order

On Jan. 25, Popivker was reportedly arrested by the CSU Police for allegedly violating a protection order filed against him by a CSU student.

On Instagram, Popivker reportedly admitted to stealing the banner belonging to CSU’s student organization Solidarity for Palestinian Human Rights. This banner was stolen from CSU’s Student Center on January 11.

SEE: CSU PD investigating the theft of the Palestinian Human Rights student organization banner

SEE: Alec Popivker admits to the alleged theft of the Palestinian Human Rights student organization banner from the Student Center

In a statement, CAIR-Cleveland Interim Executive Director Faten Husni Odeh stated:

“We thank the administration at Cleveland State University for taking action to protect students from racist acts of intimidation and harassment. Free speech and protest rights should be protected in our country, including in a university setting, however, intimidation and harassment are not acceptable. No student, including those advocating for justice for Palestinians, should ever be made to feel unsafe in their learning environment due to harassment, stalking, or vandalism.”

In a statement, the Board of CSU’s Solidarity for Palestinian Human Rights for Palestine said:

“Initially, we were frustrated with the lack of support and response from Cleveland State administrators, especially since these acts of harassment have occurred on our campus for several years.

“With the support of the Office of Institutional Equity, the Cauldron stories, and the theft of our banner, the school had no choice but to address the situation. We are still deeply disturbed by the events of harassment against the Arab, Muslim, and specifically Palestinian community, but are relieved to know that our students and communities are safe on campus for now.

“We appreciate the school replacing our organization’s banner and hope that they will issue a statement of support following the targeted events. Moreover, this could not have happened without the support and unification of students at Cleveland State.

“We hope that this occurrence and process will set a precedent against individuals who wish to disturb and violate the peace and education of college campuses (or any community), and that their harassment will not be tolerated.”

CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.

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

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CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland Chapter Interim Executive Director Faten Odeh, 216.830.2247, fodeh@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202.744.7726, ihooper@cair.com

CAIR-Ohio Condemns Neo-Nazi Homeschool Group Discovered in Ohio

Posted by: cairclev Tags: There is no tags | Categories: News, recent news

February
3

(CLEVELAND, OH – 2/2/23) – The Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) today condemned an alleged neo-Nazi homeschool group recently discovered in that state.

SEE: Inside a US Neo-Nazi Homeschool Network With Thousands of Members

In a statement, CAIR-Ohio Executive Director Amina Barhumi said:

“The emergence of an alleged neo-Nazi homeschool group only serves as a stark reminder of the dangerous and insidious growth of white supremacist ideologies in our country. Their hateful ideologies and messages of division have no place in our society, and we reject them in the strongest possible terms.”

“Whether it is Islamophobia, antisemitism or racism, we stand united in our unwavering condemnation of these hateful ideologies, and we refuse to allow bigotry and division to have a place in our communities. Let us work together to build a world in which diversity is not just tolerated, but embraced, celebrated and protected.”

SEE: Ohio homeschool under investigation for white supremacist curriculum

“The lack of proper regulation in the current education system is a glaring flaw that enables the proliferation of hateful and harmful ideologies,” said CAIR-Ohio Outreach Director Victoria Hickcox.

She added: “We demand immediate action to implement robust measures that guarantee all children have access to a safe, inclusive, and bias-free education, regardless of their learning environment. We cannot merely condemn these incidents but take action to ensure that taxpayer money is not funding the spread of fascist ideology and inculcation of bigotry.”

SEE: Politicians, education officials condemn Ohio couple who run neo-Nazi home school group on Telegram

“As a former classroom teacher, I know firsthand the power of education to shape young minds,” said CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland & Northern Ohio Interim Executive Director Faten Odeh. “It is unacceptable that children are being subjected to neo-Nazi ideologies and hateful messages. These toxic beliefs have no place in the classroom or any learning environment. We must take action to ensure that every child receives a safe and inclusive education that celebrates diversity and promotes understanding.

“A multiracial curriculum is crucial for the development of inclusive and informed individuals who understand and appreciate the diversity of our world. By exposing students to a range of perspectives and cultures, we foster empathy, critical thinking, and a commitment to creating a just and equitable society for all.”

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
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Subscribe to the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio’s YouTube Channel
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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
https://caircleveland.com/donate/

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CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio Executive Director Amina Barhumi, abarhumi@cair.com, 614-763-6557; CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland & Northern Ohio Interim Executive Director Faten Odeh, fodeh@cair.com, 216-830-2247

CAIR-Ohio Hosts World-Renowned Anti-Apartheid Leaders and International Peacebuilders

Posted by: cairclev Tags: CAIR-Cleveland, Interfaith Event, Interreligious Dialogue, Teatime for Peace | Categories: Interfaith Event, Interfaith Relations, News

February
1

(CLEVELAND, OH, 2/1/2023) – The Cleveland Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Cleveland), along with members of Teatime for Peace, hosted a forum and dinner for two world-renowned anti-apartheid leaders and international peacebuilders on Friday, January 27.

The two leaders, Mohammed Bhabha and Roelf Meyer and their delegation were visiting Cleveland as part of a lecture circuit hosted by organizations Civic Genius, Beyond Conflict and YOUnify. Both Bhabha and Meyer played significant roles in “ending conflict in South Africa – and are eager to help Americans apply their lessons learned to our current political crisis.”

More than 20 guests from across faiths and backgrounds joined the intimate gathering at Rumi’s Market and Grill to ask questions and gain insight from the two leaders.

CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland Co-Founder and Board Member Isam Zaiem stated:

“It was inspiring to learn about the experiences and successes of these two leaders from South Africa in their struggle to end apartheid. With America increasingly divided along racial and political lines, I gained hope that we, too, can heal our nation if people of opposing views can learn to look beyond their differences and put the common good and interests of future generations first and foremost.”

“In addition to sharing their experiences at peacebuilding, the South African leaders also took a keen interest in the mission of our Teatime for Peace program,” said Humera Khan, CAIR Board Member and Teatime for Peace Steering Committee Co-Chair.

Khan added: “Our mission is to bring together people of diverse belief systems and ethnic and racial backgrounds to engage in honest dialogue in order to counter the tendency toward ‘othering’ those who we perceive as being different. Our South African speakers felt they could gain from hosting Teatime for Peace events in their home country. The hope is if we share peace-building ideas and efforts across continents, we truly can make a difference.”

In addition to attending our gathering, Bhabha and Meyer spoke at events hosted by Case Western Reserve University’s Social Justice Institute, the Cleveland City Club, and the Palestine Breakfast Club.

SEE: “Bridging the Divide in Greater University Circle: Lessons from South Africa”

SEE: Lessons from South Africa: Moving Past Polarization and Intense Division in America

Roelf Meyer is known for his role as the South African government’s chief representative in the 1993 negotiations to end apartheid and establish a democratic country. He served in the cabinet of former President Nelson Mandela, and later became secretary-general of the National Party. In 1997 he co-founded the United Democratic Movement. Meyer consulted on international peace processes in Kosovo, Myanmar, Northern Ireland, and Rwanda, among others.

Mohammed Bhabha is a former Member of Parliament, qualified attorney, and experienced negotiator. He was part of the African National Congress (ANC) team at the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA), and later as part of the agreements on the final South African Constitution. Mohammed has worked on transitional and constitutional support projects in Kenya, South Sudan, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Yemen, Palestine, Bahrain, and Zimbabwe.

CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.

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

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CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland & Northern Ohio Chapter Interim Executive Director Faten Odeh, 216.830.2247, fodeh@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202.744.7726, ihooper@cair.com

CAIR-Ohio Welcomes Arrest of Suspect Who Allegedly Targeted Palestinian, Middle Eastern, and Muslim Students

Posted by: cairclev Tags: Civil Rights, Palestine, Palestinian Students | Categories: News

January
30

(CLEVELAND, OH, 1/30/2023) – The Cleveland chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, Ohio (CAIR-Ohio) thanks the Cleveland State University (CSU) Police Department for their arrest of Alec Popivker in response to a violated protection order filed against him by a CSU student.

SEE: CSU PD arrested Popivker and removed him from campus grounds for violating a protection order

Popivker has allegedly been harassing individuals of Palestinian, Middle Eastern and Muslim descent on CSU’s campus, often filming these students and posting their images on social media as an attempt to intimidate others from exercising their right to free speech.

SEE: CSU silent on Alec Popivker’s return; persona non grata hearing

SEE: Cleveland State temporarily bans Alec Popivker; Persona non grata case pending

On Instagram, Popivker has also admitted to stealing the banner belonging to CSU’s student organization Solidarity for Palestinian Human Rights. This banner was stolen from CSU’s Student Center on January 11.

SEE: CSU PD investigating the theft of the Palestinian Human Rights student organization banner

SEE: Alec Popivker admits to the alleged theft of the Palestinian Human Rights student organization banner from the Student Center

CAIR-Ohio urges the CSU Police Department to conduct a complete investigation and exercise the full extent of the law to protect CSU students’ rights to safety and free speech.

In a statement, CAIR-Cleveland Interim Executive Director Faten Husni Odeh stated:

“We are here for the students and members of the community who feel unsafe because of their views, beliefs or where they come from. These students were allegedly targeted because of their Palestinian roots and advocacy for human rights for Palestine. At CAIR, we believe it is important that the safety of those who want to practice free speech, whether they be Palestinian or otherwise, be protected. We urge anyone who has personally felt threatened by this individual to please contact us. We are here for you.”

A petition was created by CSU students to ask Cleveland State University to “take permanent and corrective action to protect their students from harassment.”

CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.

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

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CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland Chapter Interim Executive Director Faten Odeh, 216.830.2247, fodeh@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202.744.7726, ihooper@cair.com