CAIR Texas

Protecting Civil Rights: Civil rights advocacy is at the heart of what CAIR does. CAIR protects civil rights of all Americans regardless of faith. Our Civil Rights Department attempts to resolve reports of discrimination through mediation, negotiation, or, if necessary, through legal action. In 2024 handled 1000 civil rights cases including workplace discrimination, FBI abuses, travel restrictions and hate crimes. While focusing primarily on American Muslims, we have established a reputation as an advocate for any group or individual whose civil rights are in jeopardy and for partnering with local minority and legal aid organizations. We work with many partners to provide programs and legal services to the Muslim Community. We helped clients achieve independence, security and full participation in American society.

Education/ Training: Part of CAIRs mission is to build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding. To that end, much of our work involves community education and outreach through workshops and training, which has included scheduling CAIR staff and resident experts for volunteer speaking engagements. In 2024, CAIR-HOUSTON conducted 70 educational workshops and presentations and held 50 community outreach events. Organized educational, sensitivity and diversity workshops for employers, educators and organizations to present accurate information about Islam/Muslims and offer suggestions for religious accommodation. We strive to educate others about Islam while building strong relationships with other faith communities. We monitor local, national and international media in part to challenge negative stereotypes, but also to applaud and encourage positive representations of Islam and Muslims.

Civic Engagement: CAIR- HOUSTON works with Muslim youth and young adults in becoming progressive members of society through community service and active engagement. The WE CAIR initiative reaches out to the community every month with volunteer activities such as neighborhoods cleanups, retirement home visits, and aiding local citizens during difficult and trying times. CAIR establishes and maintains working relationships with local, state, and federal government institutions and representatives. In addition, CAIR conducts voter registration drives to encourage citizens to participate in elections. Engaged with elected officials to advocate for CIVIL and Human rights legislation on behalf of the American MUSLIM community. We developed campaigns to mobilize the Muslim community and facilitated awareness around issues relevant to our policy agenda and advocacy through state and local efforts.