CAIR-NJ Condemns Racist Calls Harassing Palestinian Business in Paterson
(South Plainfield, NJ, 4/15/22) – The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned a series of racist anonymous calls targeting a Palestinian-owned small business in Paterson, N.J.
Harassing phone calls to Palestine Hair Salon in Paterson were placed earlier this month. The anonymous caller repeatedly insulted Islam’s Prophet Muhammad, Islam, and Muslims. The caller also called Palestinians terrorists and thieves.
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In a statement, CAIR-NJ Executive Director Selaedin Maksut said:
“This harassment is a reminder of the deep-seated animus against Arabs and Muslims. Such a display of unabashed Islamophobia and anti-Palestinian hate must be firmly condemned by everyone who values humanity and its diversity.”
In a statement, PACC (Palestinian American Community Center) Executive Director Rania Mustafa said:
“These calls started shortly after the City Council voted on re-naming Main Street between Buffalo and Gould Ave ‘Palestine Way’ in recognition of the contributions that the Palestinian American community has given to Paterson. We do think the timing is not a coincidence, but a direct response. We must condemn and firmly stand against the erasure of any recognition of Palestine and the contributions of Palestinians.”
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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