FBI ASKED TO PROBE HATE GRAFFITI SPRAYED ON MICHIGAN MOSQUE

(SOUTHFIELD, MI, 1/22/07) - The Michigan chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MI) today called on local, state and national law enforcement authorities to investigate hate graffiti found on the old Islamic Center of America in Detroit.

Vandals spray-painted, “(RAH) You idol worship” and “Go home 911 murderers,” across an entire wall of the building. The graffiti was reported to CAIR-MI this afternoon by a passing motorist.  See photo http://www.cair.com/images/islamic_center_of_america/mosque.jpg

Last week, members of the new Islamic Center of America, located in Dearborn, Mich., were involved in a nationwide controversy with Northwest Airlines over denial of boarding for a group of Muslim travelers returning from the annual Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca. The airline has since apologized to the pilgrims.

SEE: Northwest, Muslims Settle Clash (Detroit News) http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070120/METRO/701200392/1003

Yesterday, a nearby mosque was targeted by vandals. Two other area mosques were vandalized earlier this month. A number of Muslim-owned businesses have also been targeted.

SEE: Damage to Businesses and Mosques in Detroit Raises Wider Fears (Detroit Free Press) http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070109/NEWS01/701090400/1003/NEWS01

“Based on the recent rash of vandalism targeting area mosques, we urge the FBI to add its resources to those of local law enforcement,” said CAIR-MI Executive Director Dawud Walid. “The perpetrators of these acts, whoever they may be, should face the full force of the law.”

CAIR, America’s largest Islamic civil liberties group, has 32 offices and chapters nationwide and in Canada. 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.