(SEATTLE, WA, May 20, 2020) – CAIR Washington today released a video featuring elected officials from across Washington state wishing the Muslim community “Ramadan Mubarak” and acknowledging their contributions during COVID-19.
“This has meant a lot to all of us and is yet another example of how the Muslim community is a very bright spot in this blessed state of ours,” said Washington Governor Jay Inslee as he acknowledged the contributions of organizations like CAIR Washington, Muslim Association of Puget Sound (MAPS), MAPS-MCRC, Somali Health Board, and Muslim Housing Services.
The compilation video was produced by CAIR Washington in replacement of its regularly planned iftar dinners where local politicians meet and connect with the Muslim community. Featured in the video are:
- Senator Patty Murray
- Governor Jay Inslee
- Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal
- Congressman Adam Smith
- King County Executive Dow Constantine
- Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan
“It’s been challenging this year for our community, having Ramadan fall during COVID-19,” said Masih Fouladi, Executive Director at CAIR Washington. “We wanted to find a creative way to bridge the gap between our community and elected officials this year, so that the community does not feel abandoned in its time of need. And it’s equally important that our lawmakers know about the work Muslim Washingtonians are doing to ensure we emerge from this pandemic more united in our work for justice.”
Video participants also made a point to highlight the crucial, ongoing civil rights and justice work being done by the Muslim community in Washington state:
“The Muslim Community as a whole are fighting for justice year-round, said Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan. “That is exactly the spirit that makes Seattle so vibrant, welcoming and resilient.”
Fouladi emphasized the unique relationship the Muslim community has with its elected officials in Washington state:
“We’ve been so proud of the relationships we’ve been able to strengthen with law makers, especially over the last couple of years,” he said. “Whether it’s our Governor welcoming over 150 Muslims to the state Capitol for Muslim Day at the Capitol, Congresswoman Jayapal helping us secure the release of over 200 Iranians and Muslims detained at the border, or her and Representative Smith making the oppression of Muslims in Kashmir, India, and China a priority in the U.S. Congress, we’ve been honored to have such tireless advocates partner with our community.”
WATCH the compilation video here: https://youtu.be/Ytziz0YgR-E
WATCH each elected officials’ special “Ramadan Mubarak” message here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXIOwMuYZ65V8rflVqqROerSJEppcZPnE
MEDIA CONTACT: Jessica Schreindl, CAIR Washington Communications Coordinator, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 206.367.4081
AVAILABLE FOR MEDIA:
- Masih Fouladi, Executive Director, CAIR Washington
- Aneelah Afzali, Executive Director, MAPS-AMEN
- Dr. Ahmed Ali, Executive Director, Somali Health Board
- Rizwan Rizwi, CEO, Muslim Housing Services
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.