Sold-Out CAIR Banquet Raises $400K, Exceeding Fundraising Goal

WASHINGTON, Oct. 16, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Some 800 people turned out Saturday evening in Arlington, Va., for the annual fundraising banquet of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR).

The sold-out event, which featured a keynote address by Rep. Jim Moran (D-VA), exceeded its fundraising goal by bringing in more than $400,000 to support CAIR's civil rights and advocacy work.

"We thank all those who –- despite a poor economy –- donated to support CAIR's important work to defend the civil, constitutional and religious rights of Americans of all faiths," said CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad . "This strong demonstration of support clearly shows that the community understands the critical need for CAIR's work."

Awad said this year's banquet fundraising total was one of the highest in CAIR's 17-year history.

The annual banquet, which also featured awards recognizing community leaders and service organizations like the Muslim Community Center (MCC) Medical Clinic in Maryland, was preceded by a day-long leadership skills training conference attended by almost 200 community activists from across the nation.

CAIR is America's largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.

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CONTACT: CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper , 202-744-7726, E-Mail: ihooper@cair.com; CAIR Communications Coordinator Amina Rubin , 202-488-8787, 202-341-4171, E-Mail: arubin@cair.com

SOURCE Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR)