“For more than a decade, CAIR-Chicago has been working to preserve the civil rights of American Muslims, fight bigotry, and promote tolerance. By protecting and defending the constitutional rights of American Muslims, you support the rights of all Americans. At a time in our country where hateful rhetoric is all too common, this year’s theme is particularly important. America is at its best when we embrace our diversity.” - Dick Durbin United States Senator

“Chicago’s vibrant and historic Muslim American community has long played an integral role in our city’s standing as a cultural hub. I commend the Council on American-Islamic Relations – Chicago for tis commitment to the Muslim American community, and to impacting community, culture, and change every day.” - Rahm Emanuel Mayor City of Chicago

"CAIR-Chicago has been a constant leader in continuously fighting against injustice and discrimination to protect the civil rights and dignity of all Americans."

"Your social advocacy and media monitoring are crucial not only for the safety of Muslims all over the country, but for the quality of journalism. I personally thank you for holding our media institutions accountable, and making the world a better place for all."

- Keith Ellison  Member of U.S. Congress

"I would like to thank CAIR who has helped to foster significant growth and prosperity in the community through its successful training, education and community development programs." - Bobby L. Rush Member of U.S. Congress

"CAIR-Chicago's work to promote tolerance and to fight for the rights of all Americans has never been more needed and more valued."

- Raja Krishnamoorthi Member of U.S. Congress 

"I congratulate you on your work to ensure civil rights and to promote the awareness that diversity is what makes America strong. Now is the time when we must come together and let it be known that we as a region and as a nation stand for inclusion and tolerance in our communities." - Robin L. Kelly Member of U.S. Congress

"Through such efforts as political empowerment, voter registration, and civil rights defense, CAIR-Chicago has exhibited what it really means to be for the people. By monitoring the media you have been at the front lines fighting bias and anti-Muslim rhetoric attacking your community." - Luis Gutiérrez Member of U.S. Congress

"The work that CAIR does for our city, state, and across the nation not only enriches the Muslim community but also expands productive dialogue between cultures." - Mike Quigley Member of U.S. Congress

"I salute CAIR-Chicago for their commitment to justice and equality for Muslim Americans… and all Americans. CAIR understands that in defending Muslim Americans against employment discrimination, prison abuse, hate crimes and citizenship delays they are also defending our American values for every American" - Danny K. Davis Member of U.S. Congress

"In championing civil rights and advocating on behalf of victims of discrimination and hate crimes, CAIR-Chicago defends human dignity, promotes community empowerment, and fights against intolerance and bigotry. CAIR-Chicago’s support for civil rights has helped ensure that our community remains a vibrant and welcoming place." - Jan Schakowsky Member of U.S. Congress

“The work of CAIR-Chicago has promoted principles of tolerance, religious freedom, trust and safety throughout the community. I applaud your efforts in the preservation of core American values, such as justice and equality.” - Cheri Bustos Member of U.S. Congress

"Through its mission of promoting justice, understanding, and acceptance of all faiths, CAIR has dedicated itself to the true meaning of Islam." - André Carson Member of U.S. Congress

"For many years, CAIR-Chicago has been dedicated to fostering political empowerment, cultural education and community-building for Muslim-Americans in this state and throughout the Midwest. It is imperative to have organizations such as this one to stand up in support and defend the civil rights of citizens in need." - Jesse White Secretary of State, Illinois

"CAIR plays a vital role championing the need to build mutual understanding and trust among the many creeds, colors, religions and backgrounds that make up our community and our country. " - Lisa Madigan Attorney General of Illinois

"I applaud your dedication to the betterment of Chicago and I wish you a successful & enjoyable dinner as you celebrate your efforts of the past year and continued success in your mission of spreading equality and justice for all in the upcoming year." - John J. Cullerton President, Illinois State Senate

"I wish to commend everyone at CAIR, Chicago Chapter, for your deep sense of mission which informs the vital work you continue to do on behalf of the Muslim American community of Cook County." - Toni Preckwinkle President, Cook County Board of Commissioners

"Through the years, CAIR-Chicago has fought for the furtherance of civil rights, embraced community outreach to create greater understanding between Muslims and non-Muslims, and battled intolerance. This is critical in a world that is only becoming smaller, making us one global community. " - Michael Madigan Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives

“I would like to congratulate the Council on American-Islamic Relations on another successful year dedicated to promoting justice and tolerance for our Muslim community throughout the Cook County region.” - Michael Cabonargi Commissioner, 2nd District Cook County Board of Review

“The Council’s hard work in advancing mutual respect for differing ideas, beliefs, and experiences is greatly appreciated." - John P. Daley Commissioner, 11th District Cook County Board of Commissioners

“We all owe a debt of gratitude to CAIR for the amazing work they do advocating for justice and mutual understanding between the many different religions and cultures in our city.” - John Fritchey Commissioner, 12th District Cook County Board of Commissioners

“In this climate, it is important to recognize and support the work of CAIR on civil rights, political empowerment, media relations and community outreach.” - David Orr Cook County Clerk

"It is commendable that the CAIR Organization works tirelessly to promote understanding across racial, religious and cultural lines, and thereby serves to enhance the quality of life for all Americans." - Dorothy Brown Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County

“The 33^rd Ward is home to one of the most diverse populations in Chicago. Part of celebrating our diversity is to address the unique needs of our residents. It will always be my privilege to join with organizations such as CAIR to continue this work.” - Deborah Mell Alderman, 33rd Ward Chicago City Council

"Their exceptional work enriches the Muslim Community and facilitates important dialogue in our neighborhoods and beyond." - James Cappleman Alderman, 46th Ward Chicago City Council

"Your commitment to your mission is to be commended. The best weapons against hate and bigotry are communication and education."

- David J. Kaptain Mayor City of Elgin

“Evanston is a diverse community that benefits from everything you do… Congratulations on a phenomenal past year and best wishes for the future.” - Elizabeth Tisdahl Mayor City of Evanston

"I commend CAIR-Chicago for fostering improved respect and understanding of the diversity of our communities and our region." - Daniel J. McLaughlin Mayor Village of Orland Park

"CAIR-Chicago community activists deserve to be recognized for their continued outstanding work in promoting dignity and respect for all peoples." - William D. McLeod Mayor Village of Hoffman Estates

"Thank you for your efforts to promote justice, dialogue, and respect. In light of recent events, your work is all the more necessary to dispel the climate of fear and hatred that has become altogether too prevalent." - Pete Buttigieg Mayor City of South Bend, Indiana

"Please accept my sincere congratulations on another productive year of accomplishment by CAIR Chicago and its never-ending efforts to encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, and building coalitions that promote justice for the Muslim community of Illinois." - Terry Link Assistant Majority Leader, Illinois State Senate

"Thank you for all you do to have a positive impact in communities and for all the advocacy work that you promote to make our neighborhoods stronger and more tolerant towards all who live there." - Don Harmon President Pro Tempore, Illinois State Senate

"This year’s theme is indicative of your willingness to confront major obstacles in order to ensure justice for the embattled in our communities and to foster understanding throughout greater Chicago land and Illinois." - Mattie Hunter Majority Caucus Whip, Illinois State Senate

"In a city as diverse as Chicago, your work is truly needed. You should be immensely proud of the role you have played in fighting discrimination and building bridges of understanding between Muslims and non-Muslim communities." - Iris Y. Martinez Majority Caucus Whip, Illinois State Senate

"Your tireless work on behalf of inclusion and civil rights are invaluable in a world with increasingly less barriers. As Americans, it is essential that we embrace our diversity as a strength that very few countries can match." - Louis Lang Deputy Majority Leader