Press Releases
CAIR-Houston Calls NFL Fine for Texans Linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair Over ‘Stop the Genocide’ Message an Attempt to Silence Free Speech
Muslim civil rights group urges fans to donate to anti-genocide groups in response to the NFL’s action
(WASHINGTON, D.C., 1/18/26) – The Houston chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Houston), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the NFL’s decision to fine Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair for wearing a “Stop the Genocide” message during the AFC Wild Card game, calling the punishment an attempt to silence constitutionally protected free speech and suppress criticism of Israel’s genocide in Gaza.
Al-Shaair was fined $11,593 by the NFL, which claimed he violated league policy by displaying the message on his eye black.
CAIR-Houston noted that Al-Shaair’s message was a peaceful call to end mass civilian suffering and reflects the views of millions of people around the world who oppose genocide and human rights abuses.
CAIR recently commended Al-Shaair for his anti-genocide message.
In response to the NFL’s action, CAIR-Houston is urging fans and supporters of free speech to donate to reputable anti-genocide and humanitarian organizations aiding Palestinian civilians.
In a statement, CAIR-Houston Director of Operations Imran Ghani said:
“Punishing a player for calling for an end to genocide is morally indefensible and deeply troubling. Azeez Al-Shaair’s message was rooted in basic human decency and concern for innocent lives. The NFL’s decision sends a chilling message that speaking out against crimes against humanity will be met with punishment. We stand with Azeez Al-Shaair and urge fans to respond by supporting humanitarian organizations working to save lives, promote justice and uphold human dignity.”
He noted that Al-Shaair has been outspoken in his support for Palestine and humanitarian relief efforts. In recent years, he selected the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund as his beneficiary for the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats campaign and has met with families from Gaza who were receiving medical treatment in Houston.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
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CONTACT: CAIR-Houston Director of Operations Imran Ghani, ighani@cair.com, 713.922.5270; CAIR National Deputy Director Edward Ahmed Mitchell, 404-285-9530, e-Mitchell@cair.com; CAIR Government Affairs Director Robert McCaw, 202-742-6448, rmccaw@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, ihooper@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Manager Ismail Allison, 202-770-6280, iallison@cair.com
