Philadelphia Muslims offer $20,000 reward to find criminals wearing Islamic garb

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Amara Chaudhry, civil rights director at CAIR’s Philadelphia chapter, told msnbc.com that one community member, who went to a bank to deposit the paycheck of her son in the military, was not allowed to enter the branch before first removing her hijab, making her feel as naked as removing her blouse and bra. “She couldn’t even serve her son who is serving our country,” Chaudhry said.

Dr. Zuhdi Jasser Appointed to U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom

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A common practice of the right-wing is to target minorities by using puppets and enablers within those minority groups to affirm xenophobic views. Dr. Zuhdi Jasser serves this role for the most vile anti-Muslim organizations and funders in this country. His organization, the American Islamic Forum for Democracy, is almost entirely funded by Islamophobe entities, including the Clarion Fund.

Challenging Pennsylvania’s Misguided ‘Anti-Shariah’ Bill

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The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has led the effort to challenge the constitutionality of "anti-Shariah" bills as these are introduced throughout the country, and CAIR-Philadelphia has led the effort to challenge HB 2029 here in Pennsylvania. More than 50 "anti-Shariah" bills have been introduced in 25 states based upon the model "American Laws for American Courts" (ALAC) legislation drafted by the American Public Policy Alliance (APPA). Because ALAC legislation raises significant constitutional concerns, most of these bills have died in committee without going to a vote. In the end, only five states have adopted the bills.

Workplace discrimination claims from Muslims spike in York County

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Workplace religious discrimination takes many forms, said Amara Chaudhry, civil rights director for the Philadelphia office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. It can be overt discrimination from a boss against an employee or from another employee. It can take the form of rules disproportionately applied to a Muslim employee. But it can also be non-confrontational and almost unseen, Chaudhry explained.

Banquet Photos and Videos!

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It’s been a short wait, but here it goes. Pictures and Videos from CAIR-Philadelphia’s 6th Annual Banquet, Unwavering Advocacy: Our Legacy, Our Promise! We thank you once again for supporting your civil rights and advocacy organization and continuing to contribute…

Sixth Annual Banquet an Incredible Success

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Over 800 attend sold-out event Dear CAIR-Philadelphia supporters: The executive committee, staff and volunteers of CAIR-Philadelphia wish to thank you for a memorable, enjoyable and inspirational evening this past Saturday, March 10th. Over 800 guests were in attendance, from every…

Muslim Students Association moves forward with cause

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The Muslim Students Association is seeking help from the Philadelphia branch of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. Amara Chaudhry, Civil Rights Director and Staff Attorney of the organization, said, “Truthfully, I think that this likely feels like a personal violation of student rights, and there may be some Equal Protection issues in that it appears that the officials are targeting a specific population based on minority status.” However, she said the police were otherwise staying “within the confines of the law.”