Abdulkareem Alshehabi submitted his citizenship application on July 22, 2021, hoping to build a better future for himself and his loved ones. However, by February 2023, he had not received any updates on his application after his citizenship interview. Faced with silence from the US Department of Homeland Security, Abdulkareem sought help from CAIR-Chicago. With their support, he decided to sue the US Department of Security for transparency and accountability in the citizenship process.

After a long legal battle, the US Department of Homeland Security approved Abdulkareem's citizenship application on March 12, 2024. His story serves as a beacon of hope for immigrants across the nation, demonstrating the transformative power of advocacy and community support.

In a statement, CAIR-Chicago’s Staff Attorney Joseph Milburn said:

"Unfortunately USCIS has regularly delayed the processing of immigration benefits for many Muslims and it was a pleasure to have sued USCIS to enjoin them to adjudicate the matter in a timely manner.”

We should celebrate Abdulkareem's newfound citizenship and recognize the tireless efforts of organizations like CAIR, who tirelessly advocate for the rights and dignity of immigrants and marginalized communities. Together, we can continue to strive for a more just and inclusive society, where every individual has the opportunity to pursue their dreams.