CAIR-Cleveland & Northern Ohio

Category: News

  • CAIR-Cleveland Director Joins ‘Team Palestine’ at Marathon

    CAIR-Cleveland Director Joins ‘Team Palestine’ at Marathon

    (CLEVELAND, OH – 5/25/2023) – Interim Executive Director of the Cleveland chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Cleveland) Faten Odeh joined “Team Palestine” on May 20 at the 46th annual Cleveland Marathon.

    Odeh joined Cleveland-area Palestine advocates, including the Cleveland Palestine Taskforce and the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF) to form Team Palestine, which has participated in the marathon for the last few years to bring awareness to the suffering of the Palestinian people and to raise money for children with medical needs in Palestine and the broader Middle East.

    Team Palestine braved the rain along with nearly 10,000 other runners as the race began.  The race featured a Kids Run, 5K, 10K, Half and Full Marathon. For a full listing of results, visit: clevelandmarathon.com/2023-results.

    “I was honored to run for Team Palestine and raise awareness for such a great cause, the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund. I was worried about finishing the race as it was raining, and my feet were soaking wet. When I remembered that I was running for all the Palestinian children suffering under the Israeli apartheid government’s occupation of Palestine, I was inspired to keep going,” said Faten Odeh, Interim Executive Director of the Cleveland chapter of CAIR-Ohio. 

    Click HERE to support PCRF’s marathon fundraiser page:  https://raceroster.com/events/2023/61627/2023-cleveland-marathon/pledge/team/5

    Odeh crossed the finish line holding the Palestinian kufiyah with the I-CAIR Social Justice Award recipient, Dr. Shereen Naser.

                   

    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. 

    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-Cleveland Interim Executive Director Faten Odeh, fodeh@cair.com, 216-830-2247

  • CAIR-Cleveland Advocates for Academic Freedoms and Inclusion at Senate Bill 83 Hearing

    CAIR-Cleveland Advocates for Academic Freedoms and Inclusion at Senate Bill 83 Hearing

    (CLEVELAND, OH – 6/23/2023) – Faten Odeh, the Interim Executive Director of the Cleveland and Northern Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Cleveland), together with Attorney Chance Zurub and Intern Shatha Shahin, attended the Senate Bill 83 Hearing held on May 24, 2023. The hearing focused on Senate Bill 83, also known as the “Ohio Higher Education Enhancement Act,” and its companion House Bill 151, which has raised concerns regarding academic freedoms and inclusion in higher education institutions.

    Sponsored by Ohio Senator Jerry Cirino, Senate Bill 83 proposes various provisions that directly impact academic freedoms and instruction on “controversial beliefs and policies.” Notable provisions within the bill include the banning of mandatory diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training and programs, limitations on hiring and education surrounding “controversial beliefs and policies,” affinity groups, affirmative action practices, academic partnerships with China, and collective bargaining.

    SEE: Senate Bill 83 Summary

    Representative Munira Abdullahi and Representative Mary Lightbody questioned the presenter of the bill and championed House Bill 171. They raised thoughtful questions and concerns, highlighting the need for careful consideration of the potential consequences and implications of the proposed legislation. Their efforts underscored the importance of fostering an inclusive and diverse educational environment that values different perspectives and promotes intellectual growth.

    CAIR-Ohio has been actively involved in a multiracial education campaign called Educating for Ohio’s Future. This campaign seeks to promote inclusive education policies that embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion in Ohio’s higher education system. For more information on this organization visit: https://www.educatingforohiosfuture.org/

    CAIR-Cleveland remains committed to working with stakeholders, lawmakers, and the community to ensure that all students have access to a comprehensive and inclusive education that fosters understanding, respect, and appreciation for diverse perspectives.

    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. 

    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-Cleveland Interim Executive Director Faten Odeh, fodeh@cair.com, 216-830-2247

  • CAIR-Ohio Welcomes Chief Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela to Cleveland State University

    (CLEVELAND, OH – 5/19/2023) – The Cleveland and Northern Ohio Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) welcomed the grandson of the late Nelson Mandela, Chief Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela to Cleveland State University. Chief Mandela is an elected member of the South African National Assembly representing the African National Congress.

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

    As part of his U.S. tour to commemorate the 75th year since Al-Nakba, the U.S. Palestinian Community Network (USPCN) and the National Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression (NAARPR) along with the Cleveland & Northern Ohio Chapter of CAIR-Ohio, Cuyahoga Community College and the Palestinian Youth Movement arranged for Chief Mandela to speak on the connection between the apartheid struggle and Palestine, as well as the Black Liberation Movement. During his speech, Chief Mandela called for the end of imperialism and championed the cause of oppressed people everywhere.

    Al-Nakba, also known as the Palestinian Catastrophe, was the forced removable of more than 800,000 Palestinians from their indigenous land on May 15, 1948. The displacement and subsequent massacres of the Palestinian people occurred on this day, made way for Zionist occupying forces to create what is now known as the state of Israel.

    SEE: Israel attacks Gaza Strip, Al-Aqsa Mosque

    CAIR-Ohio, Cleveland & Northern Ohio Interim Executive Director Faten Odeh said, “My father was born in 1947 in Palestine. He is older than the state of Israel, so how can some say that the land of Palestine was a land without a people? This rhetoric of erasure is unacceptable. Just like the indigenous Native American population, we were there, we are still there, and we will not be erased.”

    Odeh added, “The Council on American-Islamic Relations supports peace, justice and equality for all those living in the holy land and that means for Palestinians, too.”

    The event was held in Berkman Auditorium and attracted attendees from Cincinnati, Cleveland, Youngstown and other neighboring cities.

    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. 

    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 Interim Executive Director Faten Odeh, fodeh@cair.com, 216-830-2247

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

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

    (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.

    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 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

    (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.

    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.

    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

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

    (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.

    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 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

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

    (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.

    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 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

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

    (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.

    – END –

    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

    (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. 

    END

    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

    (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.

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