Illinois is proud to have enjoyed your service to our state. As you reflect on your accomplishments, I urge you to make plans for the future of your association that will build on your past successes. I am grateful for all the ways your organization has supported a strong future for Illinois.

- Governor JB Pritzker

Over the years, CAIR-Chicago has worked to build coalitions, foster dialogue, and uphold the principles of American democracy. Your efforts in youth development have not only strengthened our nation’s democracy but have also empowered the next generation of leaders. We look forward to witnessing your continued success and the positive changes that CAIR-Chicago brings to our society.

- Tammy Duckworth

United States Senator

For two decades, you have tirelessly championed the rights of American Muslims, fostered inclusivity, and worked towards a more fair and just society. Your commitment to these ideals has far surpassed getting a seat at the table; it has allowed you to shape and lead the discussion in the rooms where decisions are made. As Lieutenant Governor of Illinois, I am particularly proud of the impact CAIR-Chicago has had in our state. Your organization serves as a beacon of hope, unity and resilience.

- Juliana Stratton

Lieutenant Governor

I salute CAIR-Chicago for the work you have done over the past year and your vision and untiring commitment to justice and equality for Muslim Americans… and all Americans. CAIR understands that 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 Congress

Since its establishment in 2005, CAIR-Chicago has played a critical role in coordinating interfaith dialogue and empowering the Muslim community in Illinois. Your efforts to combat discrimination have resulted in addressing thousands of civil rights complaints, hosting educational initiatives, and becoming one of the leading charities for Muslim Americans.

- Raja Krishnamoorthi

Member of Congress

Our nation, especially Illinois, is made better because of its many cultures, ethnicities, and beliefs. And events, such as this one, allow us to pause and take a moment to express gratitude for the contributions your members have brought to our city and state.

- Alexi Giannoulias

Illinois Secrtary of State

The values embraced by CAIR-Chicago are reflected in its unfaltering guardianship of constitutional liberties. The commitment to combat Islamophobia, defend civil rights, and fortify the dignity of this diverse and fast-growing faith community that calls Chicago and Illinois home is laudable.

- Michael Frerichs

Illinois State Treasurer

I applaud the council for this great tradition of gathering community leaders to celebrate protection of civil rights. Thank you for all that you have done and continue to do in promoting tolerance and peace. I wish you and all the individuals your organization serves continued success.

- John P. Daley

Cook County Commissioners

I want to first thank the Council on American-Islamic Relations-Chicago for another successful year in working to ensure that equal opportunity for all Illinoisans is a promise - not just a dream. CAIR-Chicago’s tireless dedication to the defense of basic civil rights is vitally important more than ever, reliably delivering assistance and advocacy to those whose need help the most.

- Kwame Raoul

Attorney General

At a time when racism continues to afflict our communities, your advocacy for tolerance, equity, and human rights holds even greater significance. Your unwavering commitment to uplifting every voice, ensuring representation and substantive and impactful presence, resonates deeply within all communities advocating for change, fairness, and unity.

- Kimberly M. Foxx

Cook County State’s Attorney

I am proud of the work you have done throughout the year to fight for social justice for the embattled in our communities and for your desire to build solidarity throughout the State of Illinois. I am proud of the work you do and send my sincere well wishes to CAIR-Chicago as we celebrate your dedication and hard work this evening.

- Mattie Hunter

Illinois State Senator

I thank you all for supporting the mission of CAIR-Chicago that continues to pursue a more equitable and socially just society. It is work like that of CAIR-Chicago which empowers under-represented communities that will bring a brighter future for generations to come.

- David Koehler

State Senator

Since its creation 20 years ago, CAIR-Chicago has been a strong advocate for diversity, harmony, justice, and tolerance in our communities. Prioritizing inclusive dialogue and reputable knowledge as tools to combat those who seek to perpetuate division, inequality, and injustice. Their work to educate and empower the Muslim community through civic engagement has been instrumental in guaranteeing the civil rights granted to all our nation citizens. CAIR-Chicago remains steadfast in upholding the principles that our nation holds dear, including the values and rights enshrined by the constitution.

- Laura Murphy

Assistant Majority Leader

I write to commend and express my support to the Chicago Chapter of the Council of American-Islamic Relations. As members of CAIR-Chicago continue to work to improve social justice and build a genuine solidarity throughout the state, I thank you for your dedication to advocating for the civil rights of Muslim living, working and raising families in Illinois.

- Adriane Johnson

State Senator

CAIR-Chicago continues to raise money and resources to help the Muslim community and serve a very vulnerable population of folks in building their lives in Chicago. I am proud to show my support for a dedicated organization like CAIR-Chicago and highlight their impact on the greater Chicagoland area. I am inspired by the hard work that CAIR-Chicago puts into the community and I look forward to continuing to work with them to serve our community.

- Ram Villivalam

State Senator

Our community is lucky to have a group of dedicated, thoughtful individuals to serve as an inspiring example for all of us. On behalf of our entire District, thank you! As members of CAIR-Chicago, I look forward to witnessing your continued efforts to promoting values like unity, equality, diligence - and all the great things you will accomplish in the coming year.

- Laura Fine

State Senator

It is not enough to only protect individuals when they require aid. CAIR-Chicago understands how crucial it is that lawmakers understand the most pressing issues that impact the country. They continuously lend their voice to protecting refugees, fighting to prioritize student debt, and rooting out discrimination against our most vulnerable communities. It is these efforts beyond Illinois that make CAIR-Chicago such an exemplary organization.

- Celina Villanueva

State Senator

I am very proud to once again support and recognize the Council of American-Islamic Relations, Chicago. CAIR-Chicago has been dedicated to advocating for the civil rights of Muslims living in our city since its launch in 2005. I am thoroughly impressed with all that CAIR-Chicago has accomplished since its inception, including handling thousands of civil rights complaints, educating and empowering the local Muslim community, graduating nearly a thousand interns and externs, on top of being recognized as a top-managed charity.

- Robert Peters

State Senator

Your continuous work to educate and empower the Muslim community thorough civic engagement and mobilization in greater Chicagoland and throughout Illinois is a shining example of proactive community building. It is my privilege to support an organization that has consistently shown unwavering dedication to justice and mutual understanding. CAIR-Chicago’s tireless advocacy and community-driven initiatives have not only impacted lives but have also inspired us all strive for a more equitable and inclusive society.

- Cristina Castro

State Senator

The organization’s impactful advocacy efforts have consistently improved the lives of numerous Illinois residents. I wholeheartedly urge the dedicated individuals within the Council on American-Islamic Relations to persist in their unwavering commitment to enhancing the quality of life in our state and nation. CAIR’s steadfast dedication to involving Muslim Americans in the political arena, all while combating persecution and injustice, warrant the highest degree of admiration and recognition.

- John F. Curran

State Senator

I applaud the commitment you have to working for the greater good of the American Muslim Community with respect, integrity and professionalism. You are a needed voice to promote justice, protect civil liberties and empowerment. The resilience and dedication it takes to keep making progress in the face of so many challenges is inspiring.

- Senator Linda Holmes

Assistant Senate Majority Leader

At the Cook County Assessor’s Office, we firmly believe in the power of collaboration and partnerships to effect positive change. It is our privilege to extend our support and solidarity to CAIR-Chicago and its endeavors. We are committed to standing alongside you in our ongoing fight for civil rights, social justice, and equality. We fully know the invaluable contribution CAIR-Chicago has made as the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy group. Your dedication to promoting civil liberties, challenging discrimination, and advocating for the rights of Muslim-American communities is commendable.

- Assessor Fritz Kaegi

Cook County Assessor’s Office

On behalf of the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, I offer my sincere appreciation for all the work CAIR-Chicago has done in this incredibly challenging year. I am certain that CAIR-Chicago will continue its good works in the years ahead.

- Thomas J. Dart

Sheriff of Cook County

In a time when Muslim Americans had limited to no representation. CAIR-Chicago’s persistent efforts provided not just a seat at the table but a powerful voice for those whose civil liberties were violated, who suffered wrongful discrimination, or who were unfairly targeted. This dedication to inclusivity and equality has not only uplifted countless individuals but has also paved the way for the development of future leaders within the Muslim community in Illinois. In addition, CAIR-Chicago’s work to promote civic education has played an important role in strengthening our democratic fabric.

- Abdelnasser Rashid

State Representative

It is the support network CAIR-Chicago has spent years building that gives our Muslim neighbors the support to thrive, take up leadership roles, and become more than a seat at the table, but to become a voice that has an impact on the world around us. In bringing service to the forefront of what we do, we hold our values on our sleeve and lead with those values in mind, always.

- Nabeela Syed

State Representative

CAIR-Chicago is committed to advocacy, solidarity, community, dialogue, and equality for all. The work of CAIR-Chicago has promoted principles of tolerance, religious freedom, trust, and safety throughout the community. Your leadership, efforts, and proven dedication are a great example for other organizations within the community. I applaud your efforts in the preservation of core American values, to uphold civil and human rights.

- Kam Buckner

Illinois House of Representatives

Assistant Majority Leader

The work of CAIR-Chicago has promoted principles of tolerance, religious freedom, trust, and safety throughout the community Your leadership, efforts and proven dedication are a great example for other organizations within the community. I applaud your efforts in the preservation of core American values, to uphold civil and human rights.

- Jonathan Carroll

State Representative - IL57

Allow me to convey my support to CAIR-Chicago, a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights organization, on your ongoing achievements in combating injustice and bigotry in Illinois. Your achievements could not come without dedicating great amounts of time and effort.

- Anne Stava-Murray

State Representative, District 81

Thank you for the critical work you do to empower the Muslim community and to foster an understanding between Chicago’s Muslims and non-Muslim communities in these increasingly polarized times. I look forward to continuing to work with your organization and seeing the fruits of your efforts in the coming year.

- Robyn Gabel

State Representative

CAIR-Chicago acknowledges the values you can bring to the discussion of civil rights. CAIR-Chicago is committed to advocacy, solidarity, community, dialogue, and equality for all. My best wishes for your continued success.

- Camille Y. Lilly

State Representative

I would like to commend you for all the hard work your organization has put into advocating for the civil rights of the Muslim community in Chicago and immigrants alike. Your tireless advocacy has given your organization a well-respected voice in the discourse surrounding civil rights. Your anti-bullying campaigns and educational efforts in the Chicago Public Schools, as well as the surrounding suburbs, have made our kids safer and more aware of the similarities they all share.

- Joyce Mason

State Representative

Your leadership, efforts and proven dedication are a great example for other organizations within the community. I applaud your efforts in the preservation of core American values, to uphold civil and human rights.

- Martin J. Moylan

State Representative

Since opening of CAIR-Chicago’s office, you have demonstrated unwavering commitment to your communities by handling thousands of civil rights complaints, educating and empowering Muslims in Illinois, and providing a abundance of workshops and programming. Your long list of accomplishments embodies your unending determination to improve social justice and combat the evils of racism and Islamophobia in our society.

- Michelle Mussman

State Representative

We must all resolve to stand against discrimination, to welcome new Americans to our communities, and to foster an inclusive environment for all. Everyone who has gathered tonight in celebration of CAIR-Chicago has dedicated themselves to this work, and its never been more important.

- Emmanuel “Chris” Welch

State Representative

As a Chair of the Committee on Immigrant and Refugee Rights, I am inspired by your commitment in standing up for the civil rights of Muslim immigrants and refugees in our city, and combatting anti-Muslim hate and discrimination. Your commitment to providing not only crucial support in the form of legal representation and support, but also political education and empowerment, is a model for those of us who are invested in building politically engaged and empowered communities.

- Andre Vasquez

Alderperson - 40th Ward

One remarkable achievement that stands out is your organization’s effort to graduate over 1,000 interns and externs. This milestone reflects your commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders who will cary the torch of social justice and civil rights. By providing these opportunities, you are not only changing individual lives but also ensuring a brighter future for our diverse and inclusive society.

- Sonya M. Harper

State Representative

I commend CAIR-Chicago’s work in providing legal services and empowering members of their community to know their rights and make their voices heard in the government. Thanks to the work of organizations like CAIR-Chicago, we are moving toward a society that accepts and celebrates different religions and cultures.

- Jay C. Hoffman

State Representative

I commend CAIR-Chicago for remaining in the forefront of the upholding solidarity and advocacy, as well as utilizing civic engagement to educate and empower. While I know the more work needs to be done, I believe that CAIR-Chicago is more than up for the challenge. Again, congratulations on your 19 years of success.

- Jason C. Ervin

Alderperson - 28th Ward

CAIR-Chicago’s extensive work and advocacy has a direct impact on preserving civil rights of American-Muslims - relief for the victims, improving policies to accommodate religious practices and eliminate discriminatory measures, and empowering individuals and institutions to protect their rights. We also appreciate the efforts of help children understand the impact of bullying and CAIR’s work in helping children through difficult times in their lives.

- Scott Waguespack

Alderperson, 32nd Ward

I know CAIR-Chicago work quite well. I formerly served as the Chairman of the City of Chicago Council Committee on human Relations, and the 3rd Ward is home to a diverse community that includes many Muslim residents and places of worship. With that experience, I look forward to working with you to advance understanding and cooperation amongst our shared community.

- Pat Dowell

Alderperson, 3rd Ward

It is my pleasure to offer my sincerest congratulations to CAIR-Chicago on another phenomenal year! Your organization’s dedication to protecting the civil liberties of Muslim-Americans in Chicago is worthy of celebration and praise. I am proud to have the headquaters of CAIR-Chicago located in the 42nd Ward. On behalf of myself and my constituents, please accept my best wishes for an enjoyable celebration and continued success in years to come.

- Brendan Reilly

Alderperson, 42nd Ward

I respect your willingness to work with individuals, organizations, and communities of diverse backgrounds. We’re sought to be the example of achieving greatness through genuine appreciation for one another’s existence, voices, ideas, experiences, and potential. If we come together to take up this challenge, we all achieve excellence and go far in life.

- Emma Mitts

Alderperson, 37th Ward

As Alderwoman of the 49th Ward in Chicago, Illinois, I am writing in support of CAIR-Chicago’s continued mission for social justice. The 49th Ward expresses the highest gratitude to CAIR-Chicago for their tireless efforts in combating Islamophobia and racism by working to educate and empower the Muslim community through civic engagement.

- Maria E. Hadden

Alderperson, 49th Ward

As Mayor of the City of Hickory Hills, I am honored to write this letter of support to your organization. I am a grandson of Irish immigrants, so I applaud organizations that seek to fight bigotry and defend civil rights for all people. This country was built by the hard work of immigrants, and it is this diversity that continues to play a large part in why our nation is the greatest democracy in the world.

- Mike Howley

Mayor

City of Hickory Hills

Your remarkable quest is a worthy one. Your courage and tenacity are evident as you seek to inspire both the Muslim community here, and the general American public, also through education and understanding. Such activity enhances American culture, bringing people together in development and progress.

- Bradley A. Stephens

Mayor

Village of Rosemont