2013: 56 public officials endorse our work!
This year, 56 public officials endorsed our work!
“CAIR-Chicago has provided a comprehensive array of invaluable services to the Muslim-American community. It has also facilitated important partnerships and civil rights advocacy opportunities for Muslim Americans throughout the Chicagoland area.”
- Rahm Emanuel Mayor of Chicago
"I congratulate CAIR-Chicago on another successful year of serving the needs of the Muslim population in Illinois, and for working toward ensuring justice and civil rights for all the communities you serve. Your efforts to reach out to divergent faiths and build broad coalitions are truly commendable. In a state as diverse as ours, every effort to broaden cultural awareness and understanding is truly appreciated."
- Pat Quinn Governor of Illinois
“CAIR-Chicago has not only helped champion the rights and liberties of the Muslim community but also has established meaningful partnerships with groups of various faiths to promote justice and mutual understanding, setting an example for others to follow.”
- Garry F. McCarthy Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department
“I wish to commend you for your deep sense of mission which informs the vital work you continue to do on behalf of the Muslim American community of Cook County. Through your dedicated service in the areas of civil rights defense and advocacy, media outreach, public relations and voter registration, you truly are empowering and transforming Cook County’s Muslim American community as well as fostering awareness and understanding among the residents of Cook County.”
- Toni Preckwinkle Cook County Board President
“The great mission of your organization not only brings comfort to the Muslim American community, but also to the greater Chicago community that boasts a wonderfully diverse population. Your work in educating the citizens of Chicago continues to benefit our society as it provides for a greater understanding and appreciation of the Muslim culture.”
- Thomas J. Dart Cook County Sheriff
“I commend you for your work in promoting and preserving civil rights for Muslim Americans. Your involvement in the community proves that open communication between all citizens regardless of differences benefits us all.”
- David Orr Cook County Clerk
“I applaud CAIR-Chicago for its commitment to ending practices of defamation and discrimination in our communities, and its efforts to unite individuals from various backgrounds in support of its mission to ensure justice for all. The CAIR organization works tirelessly to promote understanding across racial, religious and cultural lines, and thereby serves to enhance the quality of life for all Americans.”
-Dorothy Brown Cook County Circuit Court Clerk
“We are fortunate to live in an exceptionally diverse nation. The diversity is a great strength of America, yet it also poses challenges. We are blessed that groups such as CAIR are devoted to building mutual understanding and trust among the many creeds, colors, religions, and backgrounds that make up our community and our country. ”
- Lisa Madigan Attorney General of Illinois
“This year’s theme, '#HateFree,' will provide the perfect occasion to educate, empower, mentor and find creative ways to engage in an open dialogue to find communities with mutual understanding and trust.”
- Jesse White Secretary of State of Illinois
“The theme for this year’s gala, '#HateFree,' is one that instills a message of hope and promise that generations to come will eradicate bigotry and inequality. Your work to ensure justice and promote trust regardless of different backgrounds is admirable and sets an example unlike any other."
- Dan Rutherford Secretary of Treasury of Illinois
“Once again, CAIR-Chicago’s gathering reminds us that throughout history, this nation’s great strength has been enhanced by leaders calling on the country we love to pursue the declaration of its founders: that all men are created equal and endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, including life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”
- Michael Madigan Speaker of the House of Illinois
“Your dedication and commitment to empowering the lives of many is truly commendable. Please accept my best wishes for a memorable evening as you celebrate your achievements of the past year and to continued success in your mission of spreading equality and justice for all in the upcoming year. ”
- John J. Cullerton Illinois Senate President
“CAIR-Chicago has sustained the same commitment in serving the needs of the Muslim community in the Chicago area. I commend you for this year’s theme of “#HateFree” and for addressing a theme that speaks to a new era of guaranteeing equality and respect for all. ”
- Terry Link Illinois Senator
“The mission of this organization, representing one of the largest and fastest-growing Muslim communities in the United States is to, 'defend civil rights, fight bigotry and promote tolerance.' Our city and state must continue working for each of these components. Civil rights protect our residents and fulfill the promise of equal treatment under law. The struggle against bigotry dispels the fear and mistrust that too often create divisions among people of different races, creeds and birthplaces. And tolerance allows us to work side-by-side, acknowledging diversity but seeking common ground.”
- Kwame Raoul Illinois Senator
“This year’s theme, '#HateFree,' is one that can reach all demographics and age groups. I commend CAIR for being an organization of understanding and knowledge that can teach our great nation to work towards a better future.”
- Bill Brady Illinois Senator
“I want to extend congratulations as you celebrate another successful year as the nation’s fastest-growing chapter of an extraordinary Muslim civil rights organization.”
- Iris Y. Martinez Illinois Senator
“Throughout the years, CAIR-Chicago has proved to be one of the largest advocates of promoting community understanding and opening lines of dialogue to the many civil rights obstacles that Muslims face. The work of CAIR-Chicago has truly made a positive impact on the lives of many Illinois residents, and I hope will continue promoting equality in years to come.”
- Michael Frerichs Illinois Senator
“I applaud your commitment to appreciating everyone’s experiences, ideas and differences, which is what makes our country stand out in the world. We must continue to build on that commitment through understanding and the building of trust between communities as well as community leaders.”
- Linda Holmes Illinois Senator
“Your commitment to serving the needs of the Chicago’s Muslim population is outstanding. CAIR-Chicago has fought and battled against intolerance to create a greater understanding between Muslims and non-Muslims.”
- Dan Kotowski Illinois Senator
“I applaud your theme, '#HateFree,' for the 9th Annual Banquet. I am in agreement that this theme speaks to a new era of guaranteeing equality and respect for all, while also finding creative ways to open dialogue and cooperation.”
- Michael Noland Illinois Senator
“CAIR-Chicago’s work has fostered understanding and tolerance within our communities and I commend their innovative campaigns to promote peaceful and productive dialogues that serve as a model for others. CAIR-Chicago reminds us that society should never tolerate discrimination.”
- Heather A. Steans Illinois Senator
“CAIR-Chicago in advocating for respect and equality, open dialogue and cooperation, understanding and trust among all people; and thus, peacefully in a #HateFree manner, striving to work in consort with one another for a better nation, is the role model we should all aspire to embody and support.”
- Mary E. Flowers Illinois Representative
“I commend CAIR-Chicago on its ongoing efforts to ensure justice for the Muslim community and fostering understanding between Muslims and non-Muslims and wish the organization nothing but continued success.”
- John C. D’Amico Illinois Representative
“The event themed #HateFree is aptly termed to bring about a new consciousness of unity throughout the community and with this sentiment expressed throughout the year, I am sure it will turn out to be very productive and effective.”
- Monique D. Davis Illinois Representative
“Your commitment to the community is admirable and is evident by your 8 years of success. As we all strive for a ‘#HateFree’ State of Illinois and United States of America, I wish you all the best as you embark on your 9th year.”
- Jim Durkin Illinois Representative
“Your tireless work on behalf of inclusion and civil rights are invaluable in a world with increasingly less barriers. As Americans, it is essential that we embrace our diversity as a strength that very few countries can match.”
- Louis I. Lang Illinois Representative
“I commend CAIR for its commitment to serving the needs of Chicago’s Muslim population and working toward justice and civil rights for all communities. May your untiring dedication, perseverance, and immense service bring you continued success for many years to come.”
- Camille Y. Lilly Illinois Representative
“This year’s theme #HateFree is further evidence of your commitment to educate the public and foster understanding of diversity within our communities. Your work in the Chicago Chapter has had a positive impact on the lives of many Illinois residents. I believe it could serve as a model for others looking to join the effort to promote equality for everyone.”
- Darlene Senger Illinois Representative
“Your organization stands out as a beacon of leadership in helping bring communities together and building mutual trust among people from different walks of life.”
- Emmanuel “Chris” Welch Illinois Representative
“Congratulations to CAIR-Chicago on another great year of pursuing justice and equality for the Muslim community of Chicago and for Muslims everywhere. I offer my support and thanks to those who continue to fight for the protection of rights for all members of our society.”
- Ann M. Williams Illinois Representative
“The United States is a most exceptional country and working together to foster open dialogue and cooperation is an important facet to appreciating one another’s differences. Your organization’s work on behalf of the Muslim community is most appreciated. ”
- Renee Kosel Illinois Representative, Assistant House Republican Leader
“Illinois takes great pride in its vibrant Muslim community here in Chicago, and throughout the state. I salute the CAIR-Chicago chapter for their ongoing efforts to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.”
- Bobby L. Rush U.S. Representative, 2nd Congressional District of IL
“I salute CAIR-Chicago for their commitment to justice and equality for Muslim Americans and all Americans. CAIR understands that in defending Muslim Americans against employment discrimination, prison abuse, hate crimes and citizenship delays they are also defending our American values for every American. Your unyielding commitment to justice, not only for the Muslim community, but for every member of our society is consistent with our nation's core values.”
- Danny K. Davis U.S. Representative, 7th Congressional District of IL
“CAIR-Chicago facilitates open lines of communication between different cultures and religions. Their efforts encouraging equality, enhancing cultural knowledge, and promoting justice are both admirable and necessary. The work that CAIR-Chicago does for our city and across the nation not only enriches the Muslim community but also expands the breadth of dialogue between cultures. I thank them for their efforts.”
- Mike Quigley U.S. Representative, 5th Congressional District of IL
“CAIR-Chicago's commitment to promoting tolerance and defending civil rights reminds us of the significant contributions American Muslims have made to our country. I would like to extend my gratitude to all CAIR-Chicago members for working together to support a new generation of leaders who will continue our mutual goal of guaranteeing equality and respect for all people. ”
- Tammy Duckworth U.S. Representative, 8th Congressional District of IL
“This year's theme, #HateFree, could not be timelier. The theme amplifies the notion that we must all work together, putting our differences aside to prosper as a nation. We are living in a time of intolerance of the Muslim faith, and we have a responsibility to display the true nature of Islam to our non-Muslim brothers and sisters. CAIR’s advocacy on behalf of our community is unparalleled, and its dedication to promoting equal justice while encouraging understanding and dialogue among all faiths is crucial. I am grateful that CAIR positively showcases American Muslim contributions to our great country.”
- Andre Carson U.S. Representative, 7th Congressional District of IN
“Congratulations on a phenomenal past year and best wishes for the future. The theme, “#HateFree”, brings hope for equality, respect and open dialogue. We do best when we work together and appreciate one another’s ideas, voices and experiences. You are helping the entire Chicagoland area with what I am sure will be a successful event and another memorable year.”
- Elizabeth B. Tisdahl Mayor of Evanston
“Congratulations on your ongoing efforts to enlighten both the Muslim community here and the general American public through education and the nurturing of mutual understanding. CAIR-Chicago’s dedication to studying and promoting the issues of civil and social justice for the American Muslim community enriches our culture and brings people together in growth and progress.’
- Brad Stephens Mayor of Rosemont
“The City of Urbana supports your efforts to engage all communities in building a mutual understanding and trust to strive for a society free of hate.’
- Lauren Lunt Prussing Mayor of Urbana
“Your efforts to promote equality and defending the civil rights of Muslims are truly commendable.”
- Eric J. Kellogg Mayor of Harvey
“CAIR-Chicago’s theme this year, ‘#HateFree’, is evidence of your commitment to educate the public, foster understanding, and continue the goal of living harmoniously amongst the diversity within our communities.”
- Donald Gerard Mayor of Champaign
“The theme of your banquet, “#HateFree”, is appropriate considering CAIR-Chicago’s commitment to guaranteeing equality and respect for all. Through cultivating and open dialogue and cooperation among all people, CAIR-Chicago has made it a priority to appreciate one another’s unique ideas, voices and experiences.’
- William D. McLeod Mayor of Hoffman Estates
“I commend CAIR-Chicago on its ongoing efforts to serve the needs of the city’s Muslim community. Celebrating diversity, encouraging tolerance, and promoting justice is of great importance to me personally and to the citizens of the City of South Bend.”
- Pete Buttigieg Mayor of South Bend, IN
“I commend CAIR-Chicago for their never-ending commitment to guarantee equality and respect for all Muslim-Americans. We must all continue to assist you in finding creative ways to open dialogue and cooperation within our communities.”
- Gerald R. Bennett Mayor of Palos Hills
“I commend CAIR-Chicago on its unwavering commitment to peace, justice and equality and wish you and your organization a successful 9th Annual Banquet.”
- Mike Howley Mayor of Hickory Hills
“Please accept my best wishes for another successful banquet capping yet another successful year fulfilling your mission to defend civil rights, fight bigotry and promote tolerance.”
- David J. Kaptain Mayor of Elgin
“I commend CAIR-Chicago for their unending commitment in helping to engage all communities in building mutual understanding and trust.”
- Gopal G. Lalmalani Village President, Oak Brook
“The theme for this year’s banquet, #HateFree, represents the changing times and the new communications outlets that are available to promote messages of understanding, acceptance and trust. Community diversity is something we all should embrace; diversity makes us a stronger nation.”
- - Sandra E. Frum Village President, Northbrook
“The Village of Morton Grove extends its best wishes for another successful banquet which will conclude another triumphant year of fulfilling your mission to defend civil rights, fight bigotry and promote tolerance."
- Daniel J. Staackman Village President, Morton Grove
“I am pleased to commend your efforts and those of the members of CAIR-Chicago in working to ensure justice for the embattled within our community and throughout Chicagoland. Your efforts to foster understanding will go a long way in improving not only relations between Islamic Americans and other segments of American society, but by extension will help to improve relations with all groups.”
- Terrence M. Stephens Village President, Midlothian
“CAIR-Chicago works to improve justice and foster improved understanding in our region. Your 2013 banquet theme of #HateFree is a bold statement encompassing the need toward the removal of prejudice and discrimination in our digitally interconnected, but often personally isolated, world. It speaks to the core need to address multicultural engagement in our ever-changing world."
- Billie D. Roth Village President, Streamwood
“The theme of this year’s event, '#HateFree,' speaks to a new era of guaranteeing equality and respect for all, while also finding creative ways to open dialogue and cooperation. This theme demonstrates CAIR-Chicago’s efforts to reach every segment of society while staying true to their commitment to educate.”
- Michael A. Esposito Village President, Berkeley
Members of the City Council of Chicago also commended CAIR-Chicago.
“I want to commend the Council on American-Islamic Relations-Chicago for your ongoing commitment to serving the needs of Chicago’s Muslim population and for working toward ensuring justice and civil rights for all the communities you serve. Your efforts help Muslim integrate into their communities and give them a sense of belonging in this large, multicultural city.” - Alderman Toni Foulkes, 14th Ward
“I am pleased to support CAIR-Chicago…I am very proud of your accomplishments and your desire to work to reaffirm your commitment by engaging all communities in building mutual understanding and trust. CAIR-Chicago has benefitted many community members, leaders and elected officials..empowering communities guaranteeing equality and respect for all.” - Alderman Emma Mitts, 37th Ward
“I fully support CAIR’s efforts to serve the Chicago Muslim population in promoting cultural understanding and religious tolerance….I am confident that CAIR will continue to be a positive influence and help to shape our communities for the better.” - Alderman Brendan Reilly, 42nd Ward
“I appreciate and am in support of the event’s theme, ‘#HateFree’, as a new era of guaranteeing equality and respect for all, while also finding creative ways to open dialogue and cooperation. Your work to ensure justice for the embattled in our communities and to foster understanding throughout Chicagoland is truly commendable.” - Alderman James Cappleman, 46th Ward