YEAR REVIEW 2023 | Newsletter

council on American islamic relations | info@pittsburgh.cair.com

CAIR Pittsburgh News

inside this issue:

Solidarity For Palestine....1,2

Year In Review.....................2,3

Know Your RIghts: Protesting ................................. 4

Intake Breakdown.................. 4

Support CAIR........................... 4

Solidarity FOR PALESTINE

Assalam Alaikum,

Since October 7th, after the CAIR Annual Banquet, CAIR Pittsburgh has been vocal and assisting community members with growing concerns about the situation unfolding in Gaza.

What We Are Doing:

• We joined thousands at the National Rally in Washington, D.C., advocating for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
  

• In collaboration with other local groups, we joined the Palestinian Solidarity Committee, a platform for joint efforts and solidarity.
  

• CAIR Pittsburgh engaged with news outlets to provide insight into the issues surrounding the Israel/Hamas crisis.
  

• We actively participated in and spoke at local rallies in Oakland, raising awareness about Palestine and calling for accountability for war crimes perpetrated by the Israeli Government.

• We conducted phone banking and letter campaigns to our local representatives, including meeting with Congresswoman Summer Lee at the Islamic Center of Pittsburgh.

In response to recent events, CAIR Pittsburgh's Executive Director, Christine Mohamed, issued the following statements:

“The decision to postpone the 'Treasured Ornament: 10 Centuries of Islamic Art' exhibition under the pretext of potential harm to the Jewish community perpetuates the harmful stereotype that Muslims or Islamic art are synonymous with terrorism or antisemitism. This false perspective not only disregards the vast and diverse Islamic world that extends far beyond the Middle East but also undermines the essence of cultural diversity and appreciation that art represents."

Christine Mohamed further expressed concern about the lack of empathy for the Palestinian people and called for a reconsideration of the decision, encouraging open dialogue between the impacted communities.

“Governor Shapiro’s refusal to acknowledge the ongoing suffering of the Palestinian people, in the face of decades of oppression is deeply disheartening. If we truly value human rights, it is imperative that we stand in solidarity against violence, and that includes the Palestinians who continue to endure immense hardship."

YEAR REVIEW 2023 | Newsletter

council on American islamic relations | info@pittsburgh.cair.com

Solidarity for Palestine | Cont.

Read CAIR Pittsburgh's statements in these news articles and videos:

Frick Pittsburgh's postponement of Islamic art show stirs controversy

Muslim Organization Criticizes Shapiro Over Middle East Statements

Rally for Palestine expresses anger over Israeli occupation, treatment of Palestinians

Video: CAIR-Pittsburgh Director Interviewed on Impact of Mideast Violence on Palestinian-Americans

Pittsburgh ties to the Israeli victims left devastated following weekend attack by Hamas

https://twitter.com/MarucaJulia/status

/1712911946855453015

CAIR Pittsburgh's commitment to community engagement, advocacy, and solidarity in response to the Gaza crisis. We remain dedicated to fostering understanding, justice, and empathy in challenging times. Thank you for your continued support.

Rally in D.C., at White House Gate

CAIR Pittsburgh's Remarkable Year-in-Review:

A Year of Dedication and Action

As we reflect on the past year, CAIR Pittsburgh continues to stand unwavering in its mission to support and uplift the Muslim community. Our commitment to justice, empowerment, and advocacy has driven our relentless efforts to address critical issues impacting the community. This year has been defined by tangible actions and meaningful engagement, both locally and on a national scale.

Highlights from the Past Year:

Recognition at CAIR National Convention Meeting:

One of the year's highlights was the CAIR National Convention Meeting held in Virginia, where our Executive Director was honored with the Emerging Leader's Award. This recognition underscores our relentless efforts and commitment to the cause.

Advocacy and Collaboration:

During the National Convention Meeting, we worked tirelessly and collaboratively to address critical issues impacting the Muslim community. These efforts included advocating for the recognition of the Eid holiday, confronting the threats posed by White Christian Nationalists, and addressing issues related to watchlists that unfairly target community members. We also discussed nationwide initiatives to address these concerns.

Legal Support and Outreach:

Legal assistance has been a cornerstone of our support, from helping individuals facing faith-based discrimination to successfully getting charges dropped for those wrongly accused. We've also intervened when biased statements about Muslims affected students in local school districts. We attended legal proceedings and wrote letters of support. On the last page in this newsletter, you can find a breakdown of our intakes for the past year.

Building Bridges an Fostering Understanding:

Our work extends to building bridges of understanding and fostering relationships. We've conducted interfaith teaching sessions to dispel misconceptions and help faith leaders prevent bias within their congregations. We hosted an interfaith Iftar, bringing together community leaders to create a deeper understanding of Islam and what unites us.

Advocacy and Justice:

CAIR Pittsburgh has been a strong advocate for justice, demanding change and accountability. We've been the voice of justice at a Vigil for Human Rights concerning Allegheny County jail, attended by faith leaders and civil activists. We've also worked closely with grassroots groups to petition for the human rights of prisoners in Allegheny County Jail, particularly during Ramadan and Jummah Services.

YEAR REVIEW 2023 | Newsletter

council on American islamic relations | info@pittsburgh.cair.com

CAIR Pittsburgh's Remarkable Year-in-Review | Cont.

Community Empowerment:

With economic distress on the rise and racial wealth disparities a pressing issue, we've been at the forefront of discussions, educating our community and urging them to contact elected officials to bring about sustainable change. We've advocated for government initiatives to make Muslims feel more welcome in our city, eliminating biases and disparities rooted in Islamophobia when community members need essential services.

Education and Civic Engagement:

In the realm of education, we've assisted students seeking the right to pray during school days without retaliation. We've championed the Know Your Neighbor program to educate school systems on the rights of Muslim students and understanding of Islamic traditions. We've empowered parents with resources to ensure their children have scheduled accommodations during Ramadan and Jummah. We have also reminded parents of their rights to opt children out of sensitive curriculum that may go against sincerely held religious beliefs. Our engagement with higher educational institutions is deep-rooted, supporting students and the student body.

National Advocacy:

On a national level, CAIR Pittsburgh has made its voice heard. We've stood shoulder to shoulder with CAIR National, advocating for critical issues far beyond our local community. We've joined forces with Representatives Omar and Tlaib in introducing a resolution condemning Islamophobia. We've taken action to alert the State Department about the targeting of Palestinian-American travelers, and we've urged Congress to boycott events against our principles.

In conclusion, our journey over the past year has been marked by tangible actions and meaningful engagement. CAIR Pittsburgh has been a beacon of hope, tirelessly working to protect the rights and dignity of our Muslim community, locally and nationally.

Thank you for your continued support, and let us continue to stand together in the pursuit of justice and empowerment.

Photos: Top, meeting with Congresswoman Summer Lee at ICP. Middle, Right, Ramadan Interfaith Iftar.

Bottom, National Recognition of CAIR Pittsburgh.

Left, Videos at ACJ vigil, and testimonial at our banquet

YEAR REVIEW 2023 | Newsletter

council on American islamic relations | info@pittsburgh.cair.com

Know Your Rights: Checklist for Peaceful Protests

Before You Protest:

The First Amendment guarantees the right to peaceful protest.

Public property: You can protest on public or government-owned property, but be aware of any restrictions, including permit requirements.

Private property: Protest on private property only with the owner's consent or if it's your own.

Photography: When lawfully present in public, you can photograph anything in plain view. Private property may have rules about photography.

During the Protest:

Peaceful protests: The First Amendment protects peaceful protests, but not violence or property destruction.

Curfew: Abide any curfew restrictions in the area.

If You Are Detained or Arrested:

If Police Detain You: Stay calm. Keep hands visible. Do not argue, resist, or obstruct the police. Politely inform the police that you are engaging in a First Amendment-protected activity. Ask if you are free to leave. If so, calmly walk away. The police may pat you down if they suspect you have weapons.

If Police Arrest You: Remember your right to remain silent. Do not speak until you have an attorney present. If you do not have an attorney, one will be appointed for you.

Ask for the reason for your arrest. Try to obtain the name and badge number of the arresting officer.

If asked to remove your hijab or kufi, inform the police that you wear it for religious reasons and ask for the reason behind their request. Do not resist, but make it clear that you do not consent.

Be Prepared:

Bring identification and emergency contact information.

Carry a sign with a message.

Have a paper and pen for accurate documentation.

Consider avoiding bringing a smart device to the protest. If you do, turn off location services, use encryption, and disable biometric sign-in (fingerprint or facial recognition) on your device. You have the right not to provide your password to the police.

Write important phone numbers not memorized on your arm using a sharpie, such as legal aid numbers.

CAIR Pittsburgh: 412-606-3601; Lawyer’s Guild: 412-212-6753

Pack a backpack with essentials and emergency supplies, including identification, water, snacks, prescription drugs, wet wipes, tissues, and other necessities.

Park away from the protest site, use public transportation or walk to the location.

Support CAIR Pittsburgh: Bridge the $15,000 Gap

We're about $15,000 short of our goal for next year. Your support can help bridge that gap and make a lasting impact. Become a monthly donor and enjoy exclusive perks, including private invitations to special events. Stand with us in the pursuit of justice and empowerment. Join our mission today! You can mail a check or pay online!

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