This website is a project of the Council on American-Islamic Relations’ (CAIR) Research and Advocacy Department.
CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization. We hold Islamophobia in the United States to be one of the manifestations of the problem of prejudice and racism that has afflicted the nation since its earliest days. Muslims have been involved in historical American movements combatting prejudice, but only after the 9/11 terror attacks have they become a primary focus for purveyors of hate. With this in mind, CAIR is dedicated to countering prejudice at large.
We recognize that while Muslims are a primary focus of hate today, it may one day turn to another group. As a result, we strive to ensure social and legal protections for all Americans, inspired by the sacrifices and ongoing struggles of numerous marginalized racial, ethnic and religious communities, including Black Americans, Japanese Americans, Jews, and Catholics.
While this site focuses on the groups and individuals promoting Islamophobia in the U.S., we hope the developed counter-prejudice resources are utilized by any individual or group in the fight for peace and justice for all.
What They Say About CAIR
CAIR, its staff and its board members are honored to have received at least 80 awards and recognitions during the 2011-2016 period. Seventeen U.S. Senators and 85 U.S. Representatives from both sides of the political aisle have praised the organization in that same period. Major news outlets, international delegations and interfaith partners have all applauded the group. Its work has also received a nod in popular culture and resulted in death threats from the terror organization Daesh.
Urban Legends About CAIR
Despite this significant praise, a series of urban legends surround the organization. The fact that CAIR has come under attack by anti-Muslim extremists is no surprise to anyone who works for positive social change. All proponents of justice have faced similar attacks designed to silence their voices. It is CAIR’s view that the attacks are an indicator of the effectiveness of its advocacy.
