Dear Community Members, Assalamu Alaykum.
We know it has been a long day, after several long weeks, and many more months. This Election cycle has been a divisive and vitriolic one, and we understand that you are worried.
Our office, along with the other CAIR offices have been working around the clock to push Muslim civic engagement, respond to concerns about increased civil rights violations, and now to move forward after the elections.
Nihad Awad, our national executive director, issued the following statement:
“As citizens of this great nation, we accept the result of the democratic process that has bound us together as one nation.
“Regardless of who won or lost yesterday’s election, American Muslims are here to stay. We are not going anywhere, and will not be intimidated or marginalized. God willing, the American Muslim community will continue to mobilize to challenge bigotry, to uphold justice and to protect the freedoms and rights of all Americans. American Muslims will also increase outreach to their fellow citizens of other faiths and backgrounds to build bridges of mutual understanding and cooperation.
“We will hold the new president to the highest standard in defending the rights of all those residing in our nation, as guaranteed by the Constitution.
“America is strongest and best when all its communities, institutions and leaders are working together to build a better future for its people and for the world. We look forward to continuing to work with all of our federal, state and local leaders to achieve such a future.
“CAIR will continue to be a fearless and principled defender of the Muslim community, regardless of who leads our nation.
“To those in the American Muslim community who are fearful of the future, know that America is your home and you have the same rights and responsibilities as all other Americans. Rest assured that CAIR is here for you, your family and your children.
“God is the best of planners.”
The work of moving forward has already begun. This morning CAIR leaders in D.C. organized a press conference to outline next steps to protect all Americans. You can watch the video here. After that our Government Relations Coordinator joined immigration advocates in San Jose to send a message of continued alliance. And later today I will be speaking with students at Diablo Valley College about Islamophobia in a post-Election environment.
Know that we are here for you.
Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any ideas about post-election projects and efforts. Additionally, please be sure to contact us if you experience any type of discrimination or harassment. As always, you can reach us by calling 408.986.9874 or visiting CAIR-SFBA online.
Sincerely,
Zahra Billoo, Esq.
Executive Director