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News Archive

Muslims Donate 24,000 Pounds to Greater Chicago Food Depository

01/14/2008:

140 Arabic Teachers to Teach in Chicago Public Schools

11/15/2007:

Annual CommUnity Awards

05/01/2006: At the Annual CommUnity Dinner, the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago awarded four individuals who are at the forefront of the struggle to protect the civil liberties Americans.

Join us for the MAY 1ST March for immigrant rights.

04/27/2006: Check when buses will be leaving for it from your local Masjid

Join us for the MAY 1ST March for immigrant rights. Check when buses will be leaving for it from your local Masjid

04/27/2006:

Islamophobia & Anti-Semitism: Bitter Fruits From The Same Tree of Hate

04/27/2006: Anti-Semitism and Islamophobia are fruits of the same tree of hate.

Letter From Christian Peacemaker Teams On The Death of Tom Fox

03/15/2006:

16 ways you can fight Cartoons & Islamophobia

02/07/2006: It’s time we took a strong stand against Islamophobia. Here are some ideas of what you can do.

Unity Prayer at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

01/19/2006: The full text of Abdul Malik Mujahid's Unity Prayer

House of Representatives Meeting Highlights Moonsighting and Zakat

09/24/2005: This Saturday, the Council's House of Representatives met at the Muslim Community Center on the city's north side, for their bi-monthly business meeting. The House of Representatives, after adopting past minutes and reviewing a bi-monthly report of the Council's activities, were presented with the Council's 2005-2006 plan, and were requested to present it to and review it with their own boards.

The Council Meets with the Arab American Action Network

09/21/2005: Last Wednesday, Ms. Hind Makki, the Council's Citizenship Campaign Outreach Coordinator, met with Ms. Ahlam Jbara, the Family Empowerment Program Director of the Arab American Action Network (AAAN), to discuss on combining the two organizations' strategies to reach and educate Chicago's Muslim and Arab immigrants on how to attain citizenship. Both the Council and AAAN are part of a state-wide coalition, led by the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR), that has focused on assisting the nearly half a million currently eligible Illinois immigrants through the citizenship process.

Local Islamic Schools' Hurricane Relief Efforts

09/19/2005: The devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina have led to a national outpouring of donations, relief efforts and generosity, and Chicago's Islamic Schools have joined the nation in helping evacuees and those who lost everything to the hurricane. Three siblings who used to attend the now desolate Muslim Academy in Gretna, Louisiana, continued their school year on September 6, at Bridgeview's Aqsa School. The students' - in grades six, four and pre-school - tuition and fees have been waived, as they and their parents hope for a temporary stay in Chicago, where they are staying with their grandparents.

A Successful Fundraising Dinner for the Mosque Foundation

09/17/2005: This Saturday, the Mosque Foundation in Bridgeview held its annual fundraising dinner, raising over $203,000. The dinner featured guest speakers the Vice-President of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA), Dr. Ingrid Mattson, and Mr. Rami Nashashibi, the Executive Director of the Inner-City Muslim Action Network (IMAN), an organization which serves Chicago's inner city communities.

Council Participates in ICIRR Luncheon

09/08/2005: Last Thursday, Council Chairman, Abdul Malik Mujahid, attended a luncheon hosted by the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR)

Immigration Reform Forum Held at the Muslim Community Center

08/31/2005: Over 60 participants attended a forum at the MCC to learn about the impact the McCain-Kennedy immigration proposal might potentially have on the Muslim community. The forum, which was sponsored by the MCC and the Albany Park Neighborhood Council, focused on educating the community on issues of comprehensive immigration reform.

Council Representatives Join Mosque Foundation Retreat

08/21/2005: Several members of the Council’s leadership, as well as some House of Representatives attended the 3rd annual Mosque Foundation retreat in Burr Ridge on Sunday. Current board members, Dr. Zaher Sahloul, the Council’s Vice-Chairman who is also the president of the Mosque Foundation, and Kareem Irfan, the Ex-officio of the Council addressed the retreat.

Deen Camp 2005

08/19/2005: This weekend, nearly two dozen college students from the Chicago area attended the annual Deen Camp at Camp Long Lake in Wisconsin.

Council Visits the Inner City Islamic Center

08/11/2005: Last Thursday, Council Chairman Abdul Malik Mujahid and team member Farid al-Taqi visited the Inner City Islamic Center on 53rd and Justine. Abdul Malik Ryan, the president of the Inner-city Muslim Action Network (IMAN), also serves as the imam of ICIC.

Hundreds Attend MuslimFest

08/07/2005: This Sunday, hundreds of Chicago-area Muslims and their families attended RadioIslam’s MuslimFest for a day of Islamic entertainment. MuslimFest featured internationally acclaimed stars of Islamic entertainment.

Local Mosques Pray, Raise Funds for Niger

08/05/2005: Chicago-area mosques held special prayers for rainfall in the famine-stricken West African nation of Niger on Friday.

MEC Hosts Third Annual MSA Basketball Tournament

08/03/2005: The Sunday playoffs of the all-city MSA basketball tournament ended four days of strenuous and good-natured competition between 25 teams.

House of Representatives Discuss the Council’s Budget

07/23/2005: The Council's House of Representatives body meeting for their bi-monthly meeting on July 23rd at the Midwest Islamic Center (Masjid al Huda).

Sisters Got Game 2005

07/23/2005: The Muslim Community Center of Chicago sponsored the first annual Chicagoland All-Girls Basketball Tournament.

Hundreds Attend MEC’s Annual Food’n’Fun Fair

07/17/2005: Approximately 1,000 people enjoyed the Muslim Education Center’s annual fun fair this weekend in Morton Grove.

Council Discusses the Future of its Citizenship Campaign

06/20/2005: Council representatives Tasneem Osmani, Muneer Aliuddin and Hind Makki met with the New Americans Initiative Director at the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR), Diego Bonesatti, to discuss the progress and future plans of the citizenship campaign.

Council Leadership Meets Bishop Hee-Soo Jung

05/25/2005: Last Wednesday, Council Chairman Abdul Malik Mujahid, along with members of the Council’s Interfaith Committee, met with Bishop Hee-Soo Jung of the Northern Illinois Conference of the Methodist Church.

Islam and Workers Justice

05/22/2005: Council Chairman Abdul Malik Mujahid presented at the national conference of the Interfaith Worker Justice.

Council Trains High School Students for Lobby Day

05/10/2005:

Charity Without Fear Press Conference

05/02/2005:

Council Joins United Power Rally with Governor Blagojevich

05/01/2005:

Dr. Ingrid Mattson speaks at ICN Fundraiser

04/30/2005:

Council Hosts Leaders of Ethnic Organizations

04/26/2005: The Council hosted leaders of Ethnic organizations in a reception on April 26, 2005.

Mosque Foundation & MCC Open Food Pantries

04/20/2005:

ISNS Fundraiser a Smashing Success

04/09/2005:

CIOGC Imam & Khateeb Reception

04/04/2005:

The Council Continues its Health Care Programs

04/04/2005:

The Council’s HR Meet for the Second Time in 2005

03/27/2005:

CIOGC Media Reception

03/24/2005:

The Council Calls for Federal Investigation into the Death of Hassiba Belbachir

03/23/2005:

Test HERE

03/20/2005:

Council Marks Second Year Anniversary of Iraq War with Interfaith Leaders

03/19/2005:

Tsunami fundraiser with Islamic Relief a success.

01/14/2005: The emergency fundraiser held on Jan.8, 2005 at the Islamic Foundation helped raise over $230,000.

MCC Holds General Elections

12/30/2004: Five General Directors and one Youth Director elected to the MCC Board.

Record Turnout at IMAN Fundraiser

12/30/2004:

Faiths Come Together to Offer Thanks

12/29/2004:

New American's Initiative to Aid Muslims in Becoming U.S. Citizens.

12/29/2004:

MAS-ICNA Annual Convention

12/28/2004:

Review of Council's 12th Annual Dinner.

12/20/2004: Missed our annual dinner? Read what happened in our review.

CIOGC Interfaith Iftar

11/10/2004: The Council held an Interfaith Dinner on Oct.28,2004 at the Islamic Cultural Center of Northbrook.Cardinal Francis George, Archbishop of Chicago, was the guest of honor along with dignitaries and representatives of the various religious groups in Chicago.

Chicago Police Department Multicultural Forum

Emphasizing continuous building & understanding

09/28/2004:

CIOGC Rallies to Support Families & Civil Rights

09/25/2004:

Chicago Muslims Give over $54,000 for Darfur

09/16/2004:

Chairman Offers Inaugural Khutbah at New DIC

09/01/2004: We are proud to congratulate the Downtown Islamic Center (DIC) on its recent move to a new, fully-owned office building at the prestigious 231 S. State location in Chicago.

CIOGC Hosts German Journalist, Thomas Gross

09/01/2004: We were delighted to host Mr. Gross, a reporter for the renowned German Newspaper, Die Zeit, who contacted us based on published international reports about the Council’s initiatives on behalf of Muslim Americans.

CIOGC Promotes Support for Dr. Ramadan

09/01/2004: Responding urgently to the distressing last-minute denial of a travel visa for Dr. Ramadan to begin teaching Islamic studies at Notre Dame University, IN, the CIOGC has issued a Press Statement condemning this unjustifiable and discriminatory Govt. action and requested its re-consideration.

Council Addresses Concerns over Md. Salah Indictment

09/01/2004: The CIOGC has played a strong role in assuaging heightened community concerns over the recent indictment of Bridgeview resident Mohammed Salah, at a high-profile event marked by Attorney General Ashcroft’s personal announcement.

Council Promotes Muslim-Jewish dialog

08/08/2004: The CIOGC worked actively with the Illinois Human Rights Commission and the International Association of Human Rights Agencies (IAHRA) to support and promote a two-hour Dialog for Muslim-Jewish Understanding at the IAHRA Annual Convention at the Sheraton Towers, Chicago.

CIOGC Hosts Dialog with German Diplomats

06/16/2004: In an effort to increase its inter-cultural activities, on June 16th, the Council recently hosted a meeting between local Muslim leaders and Karsten Voigt, Coordinator for German-American Relations.

Council Supports Civil Liberties Restoration Act (CLRA)

06/16/2004: Council Chairman Kareem Irfan spoke at a Press Conference at Chicago’s Federal Plaza organized by the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant & Refugee Rights

Council Chairman Honored at Imam W.D. Muhammad Banquet

05/29/2004: Council Chairman, Kareem Irfan, was honored at the 1st Annual Black Tie Imam W.D. Muhammad Banquet for Outstanding And Excellent Service To Humanity In The Field Of Religion.

Inter-faith Collaboration of Emerging Leaders (ICEL) Graduation

05/23/2004: May 23, saw the grand finale at the Chicago Hilton & Towers of a year-long program undertaken by the Council of Islamic Organizations and the Jewish, Greek Orthodox and Sikh communities under the auspices of the Council of Religious Leaders of Metropolitan Chicago.

Council Participates in “Clergy for Safer Streets” project

05/15/2004: May 15, Council member organizations, MCC and ICC, participated in the Mayor’s gun control initiative.

Chairman Speaks at International Sister Cities Dinner

04/24/2004: Council Chairman, Kareem Irfan, spoke on “Muslim-American Perspectives” at the Sister Cities 2004 Annual Convention “Dinner with a Purpose” on April 24 at the Schaumburg Flyers Club.

CIOGC Illinois Tornado Relief Project

04/20/2004: The Council launched a fund-raising drive across the Chicago area, aimed to urgently raise funds for tornado relief efforts.

Chairman Speaks at Global Day of Justice Rally

03/29/2004: Council Chairman, Kareem Irfan, spoke at the Global Day of Peace and Justice Rally on March 29th to commemorate the one year anniversary of the war on Iraq.

Council Participates in Crossroads Center

03/10/2004: On March 10th, Mazan Asbahi represented the Council in an interfaith prayer service held by the Crossroads Center at Old St. Patricks Church.

Finding Common Ground in the Abrahamic Faiths

02/28/2004: Council Chairman, Kareem Irfan, participated in an interfaith dialogue organized by South-West Interfaith Team (SWIFT), entitled “Christian, Jew, Muslim: What is Our Common Ground?” hosted by Zion Lutheran Church on February 29th.

Latino Muslims in America

02/27/2004: Mosque Foundation, a Council member, hosted a lecture by Rafael Nurbaez entitled, “Latino Muslims and their Roles as Muslim Americans.” on February 27.

Chicagoland Muslims and Catholics Strengthen Ties

02/24/2004: The Council co-sponsored, in conjunction with the Archdiocese of Chicago, two major interfaith events in the Chicagoland area on Tuesday, February 24.

Funds Raised for Iran Earthquake Victims

01/12/2004: In the aftermath of the devastating earthquake in Iran, Chicago area Muslims worked quickly to raise funds for relief.

New Healthcare Outreach Initiative

01/01/2004: The Council has recently received a grant from the Gilead Outreach and Referral Center to continue its health outreach work.

Council Hosts Indonesian Delegation

12/11/2003: At the request of the Indonesian Consulate in Chicago, the Council hosted a discussion with a visiting delegation of Indonesian leaders.

Dialogue with New Chicago Police Superintendent

12/02/2003: Chicago Police Superintendent, Phillip Kline, met with Council officials soon after his appointment.

Faith Leaders Discuss Common Goals

11/26/2003: Leaders of several religious communities inspired the audience at the Council’s Seventh Annual Interfaith Iftaar Dinner.

Council and Mosque Foundation Protest Daily Southtown Article

10/01/2003: In cooperation with the Council, Mosque Foundation officials arranged a meeting with senior management of the Daily Southtown newspaper to discuss grave concerns about the scandalous nature of a Daily Southtown article about the Mosque Foundation, one of Chicago's oldest & largest Muslim institutions.

Chairman Speaks at MEC Press Conference

09/30/2003: Chairman Kareem Irfan spoke at a press conference held by the Muslim Community Center (MCC) to address its $5M lawsuit against the Morton Grove.

Crossroads Fund Collaborates with Council for Grant Writing Seminar

09/30/2003: Several community representatives attended a grant writing seminar presented by the Crossroads Fund, in preparation for its upcoming November 3rd application deadline. This seminar was a follow-up to the successful grant foundation networking seminar organized by the Council in July.

Director Speaks at September 11th Interfaith Memorial Service in Chicago

09/10/2003: Director Amina Saeed addressed an interfaith gathering organized by United for Peace to commemorate the second anniversary of the September 11 tragedy. Ms. Saeed focused on the status of American civil liberties in the post 9/11 era.

Council Participates in Press Conference about Civil Rights on September 11 Anniversary

09/08/2003: Executive Committee member Azam Nizamuddin represented the Council at a press conference held on the eve of the second anniversary of the September 11 tragedy.

Vice Chairman Participates in Dedication Ceremony for Skokie Holocaust Museum

09/07/2003: Vice Chairman Dr. Esmail Koushanpour, was invited by Mr. Samuel Harris, President of the Board of Holocaust Memorial Foundation of Illinois, to participate in the dedication of the Holocaust Museum to be constructed in Skokie.

ISNA Convention Made Successful by Dedicated Council Volunteers

09/01/2003: Over 400 committed volunteers worked tirelessly for months to help make the 40th ISNA Convention a successful event.

Plaque of Appreciation Presented to Chicago Police Department Superintendent Terry Hillard

08/29/2003: With the resignation of Chicago Police Superintendent Terry Hillard, the Council and the
Muslim-American community have lost a good ally and friend.

Chairman Addresses ASM Convention Attendees & Press Conference

08/28/2003: Chairman Kareem Irfan appeared at a Press Conference with Imam W.D. Mohammed with a statement supporting togetherness amongst Chicago area Muslims.

Important Public Forum Held with Congressional Representative Judy Biggert

08/26/2003: The Council collaborated with the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant & Refugee Rights and the Catholic Diocese of Joliet to organize a public forum with Congressional representative Judy Biggert (R-IL, 13th Dist.).

Director Participates in Inaugural Interfaith Forum

07/17/2003: State's Attorney's Office learns about the religious cultures represented in Chicago and discusses current issues in the criminal justice system with religious leaders.

Council's Inaugural Meeting of Khateeb Forum Well Received

07/12/2003: Almost 75 Chicago area Khateebs attended the inaugural meeting of the Council sponsored Khateeb Forum, initiated to discuss the need for structured Khutbas, or prayer sermons.

Vice Chairman Addresses Foreign Journalists Group Sponsored by the U.S. State Department

07/11/2003: Vice Chairman Dr. Esmail Koushanpour participated in a panel presentation for prominent visiting journalists from Georgia, Kazakhstan, Russia, and the Ukraine.

Council Participates in Documentary Project About Women Leaders

07/10/2003: Under the leadership of Council Director Amina Saeed, a committee of Chicago-area women leaders has been actively working on a documentary project entitled, "Ties That Bind: Women, Sacred Teachings, and Social Justice."

Council Executive Speaks at CPSA Graduation

06/15/2003: Exec. Committee Member Azam Nizamuddin was the keynote speaker at the 2003 CPSA High School Graduation. He emphasized that education should be pursued for the sake of furthering knowledge & presented a historical overview on approaches to seeking knowledge.

Director Addresses IFS Graduation

06/13/2003: Director Amina Saeed was the keynote speaker at the 2003 Islamic Foundation School Eighth Grade Graduation. Ms. Saeed congratulated the school on the successful completion of another year, and stated that the Council will continue to look for ways to showcase the exceptional work of Muslim schools.

Police Executive Research Forum Showcases Islam Diversity Training Video to Top Law Enforcement Officials from Across the U.S.

06/05/2003: In a two-day conference hosted by the prestigious Washington-based Police Executive Research Forum, federal & local law enforcement officials from across the nation engaged in critical discussions about providing police services in immigrant communities, especially among Muslims & Arabs.

Chicago Police Dept. Forum Serves as Model for Other Cities Seeking Productive Dialogue with Muslim-American Groups

06/05/2003: Officials from federal & local law enforcement departments across the U.S. (in Chicago for the PERF conference mentioned above) were invited to observe the June meeting of the Chicago Police Department's multicultural forum so they can initiate similar dialogues in their respective cities.

Director Named to Midwest Light of Human Rights Honorary Committee

04/30/2003: Community Relations Director Amina Saeed has agreed to represent the Council on the Honorary Awards Committee for the Fourth Annual Midwest Light of Human Rights Awards Luncheon, focused on raising funds to support the critical work of the Midwest Immigrant & Human Rights Center & the Kovler Center for the Treatment of Survivors of Torture.

Chairman Meets with National Council of Churches

04/29/2003: On April 29-30, Council Chairman Kareem Irfan & Interfaith Committee Chair Dr. Shakir Moiduddin participated in a National Interfaith Summit on Iraq hosted by the National Council of Churches & ISNA to discuss America's post-war involvement in Iraq. Dr. Moiduddin spoke on behalf of the Council at a dinner attended by national interfaith leaders. Mr. Irfan spoke at a press conference & assisted in preparing a soon-to-be-released joint statement about Iraq.

Important Planning Meeting Held

04/20/2003: On April 20th, the Council held a planning meeting to which all members of the community were invited. The purpose was to inform Muslims about the Council�s programs & to recruit dedicated new volunteers. Attendees provided meaningful suggestions & ideas.

Fund Established for Family of Slain Cab Driver

04/17/2003: Upon news of the brutal slaying of Muslim cab driver Mohammad Haroon, a 60-year-old Des Plaines resident who was the sole provider for his family, the Council established a fund for the Haroon family. The Council has received donations from the entire Chicago area & will provide the money directly to the family.

Party Held in Mayor Daley's Honor

03/27/2003: Chicago area Muslims held a Victory Celebration for Mayor Daley Thursday Evening. The Mayor was in good spirits and spoke to the assembled audience. Council Chairman Kareem Irfan was the Keynote Speaker for the event.

Islamic Awareness Week at BU

03/17/2003: The Benedictine University MSA held its Islamic Awareness Week earlier this year. The MSA invited Council Chairman Kareem Irfan to speak during Islamic Awareness Week. A highlight of the event was the display case shown here. Inside the display case was the Qur'an, Islamic clothing from around the world, pictures of the Kaaba and various masaajid. Many people came by to view the different objects.

Chairman Receives Community Service Award

02/28/2003: On Friday, February 28, the Federal Bureau of Investigation presented Chairman Kareem Irfan with a community service award.

Council Sponsors & Addresses Illinois Immigration Policy Summit

02/28/2003: On Friday, February 28, Council Vice Chairman, Dr. Esmail Koushanpour, and Community Relations Director, Amina Saeed, spoke at an immigration policy conference sponsored by the Illinois Coalition for Immigration & Refugee Rights, and cosponsored by the Council of Islamic Organizations.

Council Participates in Interfaith Gathering to Support Peace & Oppose War

02/23/2003: On Sunday, February 23rd, prominent Council members participated in a gathering of interfaith leaders opposed to the war. The event began at Holy Name Cathedral with a service dedicated to those who would lose their lives if a war takes place. It continued with a procession down Michigan Ave. to the Episcopal Church Plaza, where Chairman Kareem Irfan delivered a strong message in support of peace.

Important Meeting with Local Leaders of United Church of Christ

02/23/2003: On Sunday, February 23rd, the Council's Community Relations Director, Amina Saeed, addressed worshippers at the Christ Church of Chicago, a member of the United Church of Christ. This marks the first time a Council official has met with local leaders of the United Church of Christ, a small but significant Protestant denomination. Ms. Saeed's presentation replaced the weekly church sermon, and she has been asked to return to the church for further dialogue with church leaders.

Associating Hajj with National Terror Level Afront to Muslims

02/15/2003: In a press release issued in mid-February, the Council expressed its grave concern over the linking of the Hajj pilgrimage to the recent raising of the national threat condition to "orange". The Council noted that the specific description of the Muslim holy pilgrimage of Hajj as a determining factor in the issuance of this alert is an affront to Muslims and the peaceful faith of Islam. To view the entire press release, please visit the Council's website.

Dr. Martin Luther King Honored by Muslim Community

01/20/2003: As in years past, the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago once again participated in city-wide events commemorating the legacy of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The following are highlights of events in which the Council officially participated.

Council Chairman Addresses Over 70,000 South African Muslims

01/18/2003: In December 2002, Council Chairman, Kareem Irfan, was invited to speak at South Africa's largest gathering of Muslims hosted by the noted Al-Ansaar Foundation in Chicago's sister city, Durban. Over 70,000 South African Muslims attended Al-Ansaar's outstanding 2002 Annual Souk & Convention and listened to Mr. Irfan speak on a wide range of topics. Mr. Irfan also appeared on prominent radio stations serving communities across the world, including Durban's acclaimed and immensely popular Al-Ansaar Radio and Johannesburg-based ChannelIslam, a permanent Islamic station broadcasting to over 55 countries.

Chicago Muslims Attend over 40 9/11 Remembrances

09/27/2002: Chicago area Muslims joined other local residents in remembering the victims of 9/11. Along with attending Church and Civic gatherings, Muslims hosted the local community at several Mosques.

Tribune Ad Offers Muslim 9/11 Message

09/11/2002: The Council ran an ad today in the Chicago Tribune remembering the victims of 9/11/2001.

Chicago Police Superintendent Addresses Muslims

05/18/2002: Our city is indeed fortunate to have the support of the Muslim community in our Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy.

Council Supports Ethics Legislation

04/22/2002: On April 22, 2002, the Council participated in an important Press Conference organized by the group, Protestants for the Public Good. The conference was called to announce an initiative to push for ethics legislation in the General Assembly.

Council Director - Community Relations Celebrates Women's History at Benedictine University

03/14/2002: On March 14, the Council's Director-Community Relations, was invited to address students at Benedictine University, Lisle, Illinois. The program, entitled, "Different Women, Different Views, One Islam," was held in celebration of Women's History Month. It was organized by the Muslim Students Association of Benedictine University.

Council Chairman Speaks at Gathering of Illinois Chamber of Commerce

03/11/2002: On March 11, the Chairman of the Council, Mr. Kareem Irfan was invited to speak before the Illinois Chamber of Commerce at an annual gathering, held at Navy Pier in Chicago. Mr. Irfan gave a prayer invocation before the group of Illinois's most influential business leaders.

The Council Cosponsors A Meeting of West Suburban Citizens From Different Faith Traditions

03/11/2002: On March 11, the Council, along with United Power for Action and Justice, West Cook Assembly, and DuPage Sponsors, cosponsored and jointly organized a regional assembly of west suburban citizens, as a follow-up event to the historic "Chicagoans and Islam" assembly held at Navy Pier in November 2001. The regional assembly, attended by 400 people, presented a unique opportunity for west suburban Muslims and people of other faiths and organizations to meet, sit together, speak, discuss issues of common concern, develop relationships and understanding, discover shared values, and move forward together on the six-month anniversary of the September 11, 2001 national tragedy.

Council and Prominent Muslim Leaders Meet with ABC7 Chicago

02/27/2002: On February 27, members of the Council and prominent leaders of the Chicago-area Muslim community met with the General Manager and other leading staff members of ABC7 Chicago. The meeting was successful.

Council Chairman Participates in Islam and the West Lecture Series

02/26/2002: On February 26, the Chairman of the Council, Mr. Kareem Irfan, was invited by the Chicago Council on Foreign Relations to lead a discussion group following the keynote address by Ambassador Wisner at the Field Museum, as the first of a four-part lecture series on Islam and the West, jointly sponsored by the Chicago Council on Foreign Relations and the Field Museum of Natural History.

Council Proposes to Assist Employees of Three Faith-Based Humanitarian Organizations Whose Assets Are Frozen

02/15/2002: On February 15, the Council submitted a proposal for review by officials of the Justice Department, to establish a monetary fund to provide for the immediate needs of the employees affected by the freezing of their employers' assets. The proposal was drafted in response to the United State's Treasury Department's orders, freezing the assets of three humanitarian organizations. The Council is currently awaiting a decision from the Justice Department.

Council Assists in Facilitating Meeting Between Muslim Leaders and Department of Justice Officials

01/24/2002: On January 24, the Council participated with approximately 30 Muslim community leaders in the second outreach forum organized by the Community Relations Service (CRS) of the United State Department of Justice, and cosponsored by the Immigration and Naturalization Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Attorney's Office, and the CRS. Their goal was to inform community leaders about mandates governing the INS, FBI, and the U.S. Attorney, and address community concerns.

Council Participates in Meeting With Chicago Police Superintendent

01/17/2002: On January 17, Council and prominent Muslim community leaders met with Superintendent Terry Hillard, and other chiefs of the Chicago Police Department to discuss community concerns.

Council Announces The Opening of Its New Offices

01/01/2002: On January 1, the Council moved into its new, larger office to accommodate the growing needs of the federation. The new office is located at 330 East Roosevelt Road, Suite G5, Lombard, Illinois 60148. The new telephone number is (630) 629.7490.

Islamic Display in Downtown Chicago

12/15/2001: For the first time ever, Eid Celebrations include a display outside Daley Plaza.

Council Hosts Annual Interfaith Iftaar Dinner

11/20/2001: Last November, during the blessed month of Ramadan, the Council hosted its annual Interfaith Iftaar Dinner. The event was attended by many dignitaries and respected Chicago-area faith-based leaders, included his Eminence, Cardinal Francis Eugene George, O.M.I., Archbishop of Chicago. The dinner was held at the Muslim Education Center, Morton Grove, Illinois.

Council Cosponsors the Historic "Chicagoans and Islam" Program at Navy Pier

11/18/2001: On November 18, 2001, the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago and United Power for Action & Justice jointly organized the historic "Chicagoans and Islam" gathering of almost 4000 people at Navy Pier, in response to the tragic events of September 11 and the retaliatory backlash against Chicago-area Muslims.

Former Turkish Prime Minister Erbekan Honored

09/01/2001: Last September, the Council held a dinner in honor of former Turkish Prime Minister Erbekan, who was visiting the Chicago area. The Chicago Muslim Community came out in large numbers to listen to his talk. He was honored with a plaque presented by Dr. Sunbulli, the former president of the Council.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Annual CommUnity Awards

At the Annual CommUnity Dinner, the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago awarded four individuals who are at the forefront of the struggle to protect the civil liberties Americans.

Join us for the MAY 1ST March for immigrant rights. Check when buses will be leaving for it from your local Masjid

Join us for the MAY 1ST March for immigrant rights.

Check when buses will be leaving for it from your local Masjid

Islamophobia & Anti-Semitism: Bitter Fruits From The Same Tree of Hate

Anti-Semitism and Islamophobia are fruits of the same tree of hate.

Muslims Donate 24,000 Pounds to Greater Chicago Food Depository

140 Arabic Teachers to Teach in Chicago Public Schools

16 ways you can fight Cartoons & Islamophobia

It’s time we took a strong stand against Islamophobia. Here are some ideas of what you can do.

Unity Prayer at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

The full text of Abdul Malik Mujahid's Unity Prayer

Past News items can be found in the News Archives

COUNCIL NEWSLETTERS

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Past NewsLetters can be found in the NewsLetter Archives

CHICAGO CRESCENT
NEWSLETTERS

Chicago Crescent Feb. 2007 (PDF)

Chicago Crescent Nov 2006 (PDF)

Chicago Crescent Oct. 2006 (PDF)

Chicago Crescent Sept. 2006 (PDF)

01-Chicago Crescent Aug. 2006 (PDF)

Chicago Crescent Aug. 2006 (PDF)

02-Chicago Crescent Sep. 2006 (PDF)

03-Chicago Crescent Oct. 2006 (PDF)

04-Chicago Crescent Nov. 2006 (PDF)

05-Chicago Crescent Dec. 2006 (PDF)

06-Chicago Crescent Feb. 2007 (PDF)

07-Chicago Crescent Apr. 2007 (PDF)

08-Chicago Crescent May. 2007 (PDF)

09-Chicago Crescent Jun. 2007 (PDF)

10-Chicago Crescent Jul. 2007 (PDF)

11-Chicago Crescent Aug. 2007 (PDF)

12-Chicago Crescent Nov. 2007 (PDF)

13-Chicago Crescent Jan. 2008 (PDF)

PRESS RELEASES

COUNCIL OF ISLAMIC ORGANIZATIONS OF GREATER CHICAGO CONDEMNS ATTACK, OFFERS CONDOLENCES ON DEATH OF BENAZIR BHUTTO

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The government should Apologize to Muhammad Salah and Withdraw His Designation As A Terrorist

Chicago, Illinois - The Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago, a federation of over fifty Muslim organizations, has greeted the jury's verdict in the case of Mohammed Salah with relief.

Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago saddened to learn of the intentions of Derrick Shareef.

While condemning violence of all kinds, Mujahid also called for caution instead of a rush to judgment. "Time and time again, Muslims have been arrested on charges of terrorism which have later been unsubstantiated," said Mujahid

SALAH VINDICATED OF SERIOUS CHARGES

Press Release 1 February 2007

The government should Apologize to Muhammad Salah and Withdraw His Designation As A Terrorist...

EID-UL-ADHA GIFT TO CHICAGO FOOD DEPOSITORY

Jan 2007. Chicago Muslims Donate Sorely Needed Protein To Thousands Of Area Hungry for the third year in a row....

ROCKFORD, IL PLOT FOILED

12/8/2006 PLOT FOILED, MUSLIMS GIVE THANKS The Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago is saddened to learn of the intentions of Derrick Shareef, 22 of Rockford, Illinois..

COUNCIL CONDEMNS VIOLENCE AGAINST CHURCHES, NUN

9/19/2006 - The Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago unequivocally condemns the recent attacks on churches in the West Bank and the murder of a nun in Somalia.

Chicago Muslims Unwavering In Muslim-Catholic Dialogue Despite Pope's Comments

CHICAGO, IL - Sept. 15: Despite their surprise and sorrow at Pope Benedict's comments made last Wednesday accusing the Prophet Mohammed of spreading Islam through violence, the Chicago Muslim community remains steadfast on their path of dialogue and understanding to bridge the gap of misunderstanding between members of both faiths.

Candidate's Discriminatory Comments Condemned By Chicago Muslims

Chicago, Illinois - Sept. 15, 2006: The Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago is outraged at the comments that congressional candidate for the 17th District of Illinois, Andrea Zinga, made to reporters on Monday at a 9/11 commemoration event.

MIDWEST ISLAMIC CENTER IN SCHAUMBURG VANDALIZED SECOND TIME IN TWO MONTHS.

Schaumburg, Saturday, August 19, 2006 - Between 11 p.m. last night and 4 a.m. this morning, the Midwest Islamic Center was broken into and vandalized considerably. One of four front doors has been smashed into; the mosque office has been destroyed as was the wall on which the donation box was attached.

Interview Chicago Cabbie�s about the hazards of their profession.

Chicago, August 21, 2006 � The Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago today expressed relief over the conviction of Department of Public Health employee Michael L. Jackson, who ran over Chicago cabbie Haroon Paryani several times, killing Mr. Paryani with his own cab in front of witnesses.

Council Election Results

Past Press Releases can be found in the Press Releases Archive

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