(Houston, T.X., 8/9/19) – Because of recent incidents of violence targeting public spaces, the Houston chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Houston)–the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization– is urging Muslim communities around the country to step up security during activities marking the end of the yearly pilgrimage to Mecca, or Hajj, on or around August 11.
The prayers and the holiday that follows Hajj are called Eid ul-Adha (EED-al-ODD-ha), or “festival of the sacrifice,” which is celebrated with communal prayers and family activities.
CAIR:American Muslims to Mark End of Religious Pilgrimage with Communal Prayers, Celebrations
[BACKGROUNDER: Eid ul-Adha, commonly referred to as just “Eid,” commemorates the Prophet Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael at God’s command. The holiday is celebrated with the prayers, small gifts for children, distribution of meat to the needy, and social gatherings. During this holiday, Muslims exchange the greeting “Eid Mubarak” or “blessed Eid.” Each year, some two million Muslims, including thousands of American Muslims, go on Hajj.]
CAIR-Houston is urging mosques and other Islamic institutions to take measures outlined in its “Best Practices for Mosque and Community Safety” booklet. Advice offered in CAIR’s security publication is applicable to all institutions, regardless of organizational mission.
The booklet may be viewed at: https://tinyurl.com/BestSafetyPractices
The Houston-based civil rights organization has reported an unprecedented spike in bigotry targeting American Muslims and members of other minority groups since the election of Donald Trump as president.
Community members are asked to report any bias incidents to police and to CAIR-Houston at 713-838-2247 or by filing a report at: https://cairhouston.com/get-help-now/
CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, 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 Development and Outreach Coordinator, Ambreen Hernandez
ahernandez@cair.com
Executive Director Lubabah Abdullah, Esq.
labdullah@cair.com
713-838-2247
