On Tuesday, October 15th, CAIR-Chicago Deputy Director & Counsel Sufyan Sohel facilitated a training and discussion with officers of the U.S. Customs & Border Patrol at their offices near O’Hare International Airport. Sufyan gave an overview of Islamic faith traditions, illustrated the rich diversity of the Muslim community, and delved into the rise of Islamophobia and how bigoted policies, including the Muslim Travel Bans, affect Muslims and other marginalized communities

Sufyan stressed how US policies have led to increased levels of anxiety and fear within the communities that CAIR-Chicago serves, and how perceived bias by federal agents adds to the mistrust of government actors that many immigrant communities already have.

“This was a much needed training for O’Hare’s Customs & Border Patrol Officers. We are grateful that CBP’s local leadership granted us this opportunity to present the perspectives and stories of Muslim travelers. Not a week has gone by, since Muslim Bans went into effect, that CAIR-Chicago’s TAP Service has not received at least a dozen calls of individuals detained or denied entry into the U.S. It was beneficial to share some of those experiences with CBP and for me to hear and learn from them,”Sohel said.

CAIR-Chicago, through its Travelers Assistance Project, has operated an online portal and 24 hour hotline to assist travelers, and their families, who may be detained or denied entry into the United States. We encourage our communities and readers to follow all established rules and protocols while applying for a visa and/or traveling. If you feel that you have been targeted due to your faith or country of origin, please call us at 312.212.1520.