Civic Engagement
CAIR facilitates opportunities to engage with government bodies, to influence public policy by meeting with elected officials and to advocate for legislation that aims to preserve civil liberties and promote social justice through various programs. CAIR is active in monitoring legislation and government activities and then, responding on behalf of the American Muslim community. CAIR-CA representatives have testified before Congress and have sponsored a number of activities designed to bring Muslim concerns to the Capitol Hill.
Legal Services
Civil rights advocacy is at the center of CAIR’s work. CAIR has served more than 25,000 victims of discrimination since its founding. The California offices receive a total of approximately 800 inquiries a year and work to resolve them through mediation, negotiation, public pressure or, if necessary, through legal action. Our civil rights services are provided free of charge to the community.
The Civil Rights Department counsels, mediates and advocates on behalf of Muslims and others who have experienced religious discrimination, defamation or hate crimes. CAIR works to protect and defend the constitutional rights of American Muslims, thereby supporting the rights of all Americans.
CAIR seeks to empower non-citizens by helping them achieve independence, security, and the opportunity to fully participate in American society. The immigrants’ right program provides high-quality, low-cost or pro bono services to individuals otherwise unable to obtain legal assistance. We seek to assist individuals who seek asylum, legal permanent residency, citizenship or reunification with their families as well as victims of human trafficking, serious crimes, and domestic violence.
Media Relations
Outreach & Education
CAIR aims to build and expand bridges of understanding between the American Muslim community and the community at large using a two-pronged approach. The first approach, educating American Muslims about their rights and responsibilities as citizens, empowers community members to fully participate in all aspects of civic life. The second, educating the broader community about Islam and Muslims helps foster mutual trust and cooperation. By working with allied organizations representing other communities, CAIR has faith that investing our efforts in building coalitions will cultivate justice and understanding.
Youth Empowerment
CAIR has always believed that in order to secure a brighter future for our communities, investments must be made in empowering our youth with the tools to become the leaders of tomorrow. Through its programs, CAIR aims to equip youth with the proper training and support to become agents of positive change.