A Message from CAIR-LA
Executive Director
Ten
years ago, a local group of dedicated Muslims established
the Southern California chapter of CAIR, with the goals
of promoting a better understanding of Islam and defending
the civil rights of American Muslims. For five years, tremendous
progress was achieved, and CAIR grew by leaps and bounds.
Then, on September 11, 2001, America was shaken by a horrific
tragedy that tested our faith and values as a nation. Every
American was impacted, especially Muslims, who carried the
burden of an unjustifiable blame solely because they are
Muslims. In the period following the attacks, there was
a sharp rise in hate incidents and backlash against American
Muslims. We were subjected to delays in citizenship, improper
arrests, no-fly lists, NSA wiretaps, airport profiling,
and other such measures. Across the country and here in
Southern California, the presence of CAIR ensured a prompt
and strong response to negative media coverage, government
abuses and a fight for fair treatment of American Muslims.
As a long-term and proactive strategy to the growing tide
of anti-Muslim bias and misperceptions about Islam, CAIR
undertook a major campaign of education and regular engagement
with law enforcement agencies, government officials, media
professionals, academics, and every day fellow Americans.
CAIR spearheaded educational projects such as the ‘Explore
the Qur’an’ project and ‘Explore the Life
of Muhammad’ campaign reaching out to tens of thousands
of people on a personal level.
But the challenges are still worrisome. Today, our world
and country are polarized. There are those, on all sides,
who wish to push for a raging war between America and the
Muslim world. The destructive wars in Iraq and Lebanon are
but a sample of what may follow. American Muslims are well
positioned to counter and defeat such plans by promoting
a culture of dialogue and cooperation rather than a clash
of civilizations.
CAIR has the vision and experience to do what it takes to
succeed, Insha-Allah (God willing), but we cannot do it
alone. We have always counted on you for our success in
the last ten years. But now, more than ever, your support
is crucial in guaranteeing the success of this vision. Together,
we can ensure America stays true to its values.
On behalf of the CAIR Board of Directors and staff, it is
with great honor and pleasure that I invite you and your
family to the 10th annual CAIR banquet. The 2006 Annual
CAIR banquet will take place on Saturday November 18th,
at the Anaheim Hilton. Order your table/tickets today by
calling CAIR-LA at 714-776-1847 or online at: www.cair-california.org
I am counting on your support today.
Hussam Ayloush
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