CAIR Chicago Draws More Than 1,000 to Event

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR- Chicago) hosted a 15th at Oakbrook Terrace on February 9th, 2019 at Drury Lane in Oakbrook.

Sold-out event was a hit with more than 1000 attendees the attendance was so large and impressive.

The event was emceed by CAIR-Florida's very own Hassan Shibly. The event began with a stunning recitation of the Quran by Ismail Sayeedi from ICN and translation by the Siham Naser.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is a nonprofit, grassroots civil rights and advocacy organization. CAIR is America s largest Muslim civil liberties organization, with affiliate offices nationwide. Its national headquarters is located on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

Since its establishment in 1994, CAIR has worked to promote a positive image of Islam and Muslims in America. Through media relations, lobbying, education and advocacy, CAIR work to make sure a Muslim voice is represented, CAIR seeks to empower American Muslims and encourage their participation in political and social activism. CAIR-Chicago Annual Dinner focused on creating change through supporting, running and winning- elected office.

Through the video documentary CAIR- Chicago shared the exciting projects that it has been busy with over the past years.

Ahmed Rehab Executive Director, CAIR-Chicago's explains about CAIR outlined the goals, activities, expansion plans, and the need for funds to continue meeting the growing needs of the to defend civil rights, fight bigotry, and promote tolerance. We are fighting for every one of our families against Islamophobia and discrimination and for empowerment. He Also Said, “Widening the tent to include everybody is truly to make America strong.”

More than 70 officials joined the event, including members of congress Raja Krishnamurthy, mercurial Congressman Chuy Garcia and the unapologetic Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib.

According to an organizer said “Today we saw a huge line for photos with Rashida Tlaib was a mile long and was a bit of a commotion (was not expecting that). We had not seen anything like it in 15 years of any community event. But it was telling to see what her achievement meant for a community long expected to sit in the political bleachers rather than jump into the court and dribble the ball.”

Congresswoman Chuy Garcia as the guest speaker and Congresswoman. He said, “We defend our sisters and brother of the Muslim faith.” Rashida Tlaib was the keynote speaker and the speech were outstanding and spoke from the heart. She delivered a keen reminder of commitment to supporting the cause of civil rights. She said, “I will carry you with me always, but I need you to carry me.”

The Fundraising was effectively conducted by Sheikh Hassan Aly (Imam and Director at The Mecca Center). He achieved $290,000 in twenty minutes before the Dinner.

Community Activists Dilara Alim Sayeed and Abdelnasser Rashid received the Community service award.

At the end of the event Dr. Mazen Kudaimi, CAIR-Chicago's Chairman, thanks all tremendous support of key partners from the Chicagoland mosques, coalitions, interfaith groups, companies, community members and sponsors make this event successful.