(CLEVELAND, OH, 4/24/2012) – The Cleveland Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations recently presented a workshop on Challenging Islamophobia for students at John Carroll University.

The workshop provided a brief overview Islamophobia, including the definition and key components; understanding the history and root causes; current manifestations on the Internet and in the public sphere; consequences of hate and bigotry; and how Islamophobia is promoted by religious figures, media pundits, politicians, and so-called “terrorism experts.” The workshop also offered practical steps and resources for reaching out to the Muslim community and challenging Islamophobia.

“Religious intolerance has a negative impact on communities” said Julia A. Shearson, executive director of CAIR-Cleveland. “The workshop on Challenging Islamophobia is  designed to raise awareness about anti-Muslim bigotry and provide resources to counter intolerance by building mutual understanding and fostering inclusion.”

For more information or to arrange a workshop, contact CAIR-Cleveland Executive Director Julia A. Shearson, jshearson@cair.com, 216-830-2247 or 216-440-2247.

CAIR is America’s largest Islamic civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.

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