Press Releases | Media Mentions | Action Alerts | Events & Workshops

The Chicago Activist, Issue #535

CAIR-Chicago's Newsletter

Table of Contents:

1. In the Press
2. CAIR-Chicago is Hiring!
3. Outreach in the Community
4. Civil Rights Digest
5. Report Hate, Get Help

CAIR-Chicago Welcomes Hate Crime Sentencing for Peoria County Man

“Besides shouting slurs, Gathard threw sticks at his neighbors’ house, threatened to burn it down, and told them to “go back to your village” on the night of Aug. 6, a Peoria County Sheriff’s Office report said.

(CHICAGO, IL, 1/10/25) –

The Chicago office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Chicago), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, welcomed a hate crime sentencing against Charles Gathard for his racially charged attack against his Black neighbors in Peoria County, IL

Join the CAIR-Chicago Team!

Now Hiring: Operations Coordinator

We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented self-starter to fill the full-time position of Operations Coordinator, which is available immediately. The role functions as an assistant to the Executive Director and reports to and works alongside him in managing the internal operations of the organization. This position is expected to work full-time in our downtown Chicago office located in The Loop.

To apply, please email your resume and cover letter to Maggie Slavin at mslavin@cair.com

Visit our Career Center below to learn more and apply today!

Now Accepting Applications for Spring & Summer 2025 Internships!

If you are passionate about advocacy and civil rights, this is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience, earn academic credit or community service hours, and deepen your understanding of the important work we do.

Visit our Intern Center below to learn more and apply today!

Good News Alert!

Halal/Kosher Bill Passed at Lame Duck Action Day

On Tuesday, January 7th, CAIR-Chicago joined forces with the Muslim Civic Coalition and The Mecca Center for Lame Duck Action Day at the Illinois Capitol in Springfield.

Together, we advocated for vital legislation affecting the Muslim-American community, like the Wadee Resolution. We also raised pressing questions about hate crimes training and community involvement for SB3552/HB 5368: Amends the Illinois Police Training Act.

A key milestone was the successful House passage of the Faith by Plate Act (SB 457), aka the Halal and Kosher Bill, bringing equal dietary access to schools, prisons, and hospitals. With your support, we’re determined to see it signed into law by Governor J.B. Pritzker—stay tuned for updates and upcoming actions!

Connecting at MAS-ICNA 2024

CAIR-Chicago's team had the privilege of attending the 2024 MAS-ICNA Convention from December 26-28 alongside CAIR National and CAIR Action! Our outreach team engaged with the youth, facilitated games, and highlighted CAIR-Chicago’s critical civil rights work.

Civil Rights Takes Action Against Film Screening Restrictions

CAIR-Chicago has taken a stand for First Amendment rights by sending a demand letter to Northbrook Public Library, urging them to address restrictive policies that hinder free speech and equitable access to public spaces. The letter highlights the library's costly security requirements for a screening of the film Israelism, which disproportionately impact marginalized voices and grassroots organizations.

Have you noticed increased censorship or intimidation in response to screenings of pro-Palestinian movies or similar events at libraries? We want to hear your experiences!

Report instances of media bias or censorship to CAIR-Chicago: www.cairchicago.org/report-media-bias

For more resources, visit www.cairchicago.org/get-help

🔗 Report Discrimination: cairchicago.org/report-discrimination

🔗 Immigration Help: cairchicago.org/get-immigration-help

🔗 Asylum Assistance: cairchicago.org/get-asylum-help

🔗 Gaza Resource Center: cairchicago.org/protectingyourrights

Protecting Your Rights

Resource Center

In response to the ongoing genocide in Gaza and the approaching Trump presidency that promises harmful policy changes, CAIR-Chicago is prepared to support our community, starting with our comprehensive resource hub to empower individuals navigating challenges at school, work, and protests.

What’s Inside:

• School Resources: Guides and toolkits to navigate conversations and address challenges in academic settings.
• Workplace Support: Practical advice on accommodations and fostering inclusivity.
• Protest Safety Guides: Essential tips on knowing your rights and staying safe.

How to Access:

Visit our website and click "Gaza Resource Center" at the top announcement bar OR under the "Gaza Resource Center" in the "Projects" tab. Download guides tailored to your needs.

Stay Updated:

Follow us on social media for new resources, events, and community updates!