(CLEVELAND, OH, 4/5/2011) – The Cleveland Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations is offering free workshops on challenging Islamophobia.  Two workshops have been offered thus far to area mosques including the Muslim Association of Cleveland East (MACE) and the Unity Center.

The interactive workshops provide an overview of Islamophobia, including the definition and keys 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 offers practical steps and resources for challenging Islamophobia.

“Religious intolerance in America is on the rise, and Muslims and their families should know how to respond” said Julia A. Shearson, executive director of CAIR-Cleveland. “These workshops are designed to educate people about anti-Islamic bigotry and provide resources to counter the headwind of hate that our community is facing.”

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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