CAIR Concerned About Government Seizure of 4 U.S. Mosques

Unprecedented move by government may have First Amendment implications
 

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today (WASHINGTON, D.C., 11/12/09) – expressed concern about the government’s move to seize mosques in New York, Maryland, California, and Texas. Officials accuse the foundation that owns the mosques of being tied to the Iranian government.
 
SEE: Feds Move to Seize 4 Mosques (AP)
http://www.click2houston.com/news/21598957/detail.html
 
CAIR said the unprecedented move by the government may have First Amendment implications for the American Muslim community.
 
“Whatever the details of the government’s case against the owners of the mosques, as a civil rights organization we are concerned that the seizure of American houses of worship could have a chilling effect on the religious freedom of citizens of all faiths and may send a negative message to Muslims worldwide,” said CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper.
 
He said the government’s move comes at a particularly bad time, as American Muslims are fearful of a backlash resulting from the recent shooting spree at Fort Hood in Texas.
 
Hooper said CAIR will monitor the case as it moves through the court system.
 
CAIR is America's largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.
 
 
CONTACT:

CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-488-8787 or 202-744-7726,

E-Mail: ihooper@cair.com;

CAIR Communications Coordinator Amina Rubin, 202-488-8787 or 202-341-4171,

E-Mail: arubin@cair.com