The Texas chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-TX) today calls for the safe passage of Greg Stoker, an Austin-based U.S. military veteran participating in the peaceful Global Sumud Flotilla, whose mission is to deliver critical humanitarian aid to Gaza.

CAIR-TX calls on Austin-area representatives — Rep. Greg Casar (TX-35) and Rep. Michael McCaul (TX-10) — to ensure the safe passage of Stoker and his fellow flotilla members. Rep. Doggett  (TX-37), Austin City Council members Zo Qadri (District 9), Mike Siegel (District 7), Mayor Pro Tem Vanessa Fuentes (District 2), Krista Laine (District 6), José “Chito” Vela (District 4), and 110 organizations of Texas Civil Society have already voiced their support for Stoker’s protection. 

SEE:  US Rep. Doggett, Austin leaders call for protection of flotilla bound for Gaza that includes Austinite

SEE:  OPEN LETTER: Texas Organizations Call for International Protection for American Veteran Greg Stoker

“This is not only about one Texan, it is about protecting the rights of all Americans who engage in humanitarian work abroad,” said Sameeha Rizvi, Civic Engagement Organizer for CAIR-Texas, Austin Chapter. “We urge Reps. Casar and McCaul to act swiftly to secure the safety of Mr. Stoker and to uphold international law.”

CAIR-TX joins national and international human rights organizations in urging the U.S. government to condemn any unlawful interference with humanitarian missions and to defend the right of American citizens to engage in peaceful international aid work. 

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.

La misión de CAIR es mejorar la comprensión del Islam, fomentar el diálogo, proteger las libertades civiles, capacitar a los musulmanes estadounidenses, y construir coaliciones que promuevan la justicia y la comprensión mutua.

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CONTACT: CAIR-DFW Civil Rights Director Nikiya Natale, 469-998-2246, nnatale@cair.com; CAIR-San Antonio President Sarwat Husain, 210-378-9528, shusain@cair.com; CAIR-Houston Executive Director Mustafaa Carroll, 832-549-1042, mcarroll@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, ihooper@cair.com