Healing the Nation

The Arab American Experience After September 11

embargoed until September 4, 2002 12:00 noon Healing the Nation The Arab American Experience after September 11

a first anniversary report by the I. Arab American Response President to the

Rescue and Recovery ‹ Fundraising ‹ Vigils, Rallies, and Blood Drives Jean AbiNader ‹ Individual Efforts Managing Director

Helen Samhan Executive Director, II. Backlash and the Nation’s Response AAI Foundation Government Response ‹ Community Response ‹ Individual Response Jennifer Salan Communications Director III. Arab Reach Out Text: Michael S. Lee to Educate and Inform

Design: Sarah Sullivan Organizations’ Efforts ‹ Individual Efforts

Contributors: Abdallah Al-Zuabi, Sean Brooks, Jeff Curley, Majed Jafari, Karim Shaaban IV. Civil Rights Issues in the Wake

Special thanks to the Arab of September 11 American community leaders The USA PATRIOT Act and Civil Liberties ‹ Executive Branch Orders around the country who shared ‹ Investigation and Individual Rights ‹ Impact on Immigration Policy their stories with us. ‹ Dangerous Directions at the Department of Justice ‹ Committed to Dialogue and Advocacy This report was published by the Arab American Institute Foundation with the generous support of the Atlantic V. Appendices Philanthropies (USA) Inc. A. Submission to The Commission on Civil Rights: Testimony of James J. Zogby, October 12, 2001. The Arab American Institute B. “Arab American Perspectives on the International War Against 1600 K St. NW, Suite 601 Washington, DC 20006 Terrorism.” Remarks to the Secretary's Open Forum by James J. Zogby, Phone: (202) 429-9210 December 5, 2001. United States Department of State. Fax: (202) 429-9214 C. Commissioners Meeting Open Session: “Employment Discrimination in www.aaiusa.org the Aftermath of September 11.” Remarks by AAI Managing Director Jean AbiNader, December 11, 2001. U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission D. Arab American Institute Materials: I. Select AAI Press Releases II. AAI Publications and Reports III. AAI Educational Packet E. Other Resources eptember 11, 2001 will forever be remembered as the day the American spirit was tested to a greater degree than at any time since World War II. S For , the deep shock and anger over this national trauma and grief over lost relatives and friends were compounded by a rush by some to blame Arabs collectively for the attacks. Arabs and Muslims in this country were suddenly confronted with the double pain of mourning an attack on their country and simultaneously having to defend themselves, their families, and their stature as Americans. But in the aftermath of that tragic day, and despite acts of misguided hatred and violence, September 11 has also reminded us of the best of the American spirit. For every story of heartache on September 11, there is a story of heroism. For every act of violence or hatred that came in the wake of the attacks, there are dozens of examples of selflessness, compassion, and kindness. The first anniversary of the attacks is an appropriate time to document the Arab American experience in the days, weeks, and months following the terrorist attacks and to tell some of the stories of the past year that have yet to be told: the Arab American firefighters and doctors who rushed to Ground Zero to help in the recovery efforts. The hundreds of thousands of dollars raised by Arab and Muslim groups to aid victims. The Americans across the nation who lent assistance and support when their Arab and Muslim neighbors were threatened. Blood drives, interfaith prayer vigils, and fundraisers that brought together Americans from all backgrounds and faiths. The many Americans who sought to learn more about Arab culture and the Muslim faith, and the many Arabs and Muslims who stepped forward to promote greater understanding. This anniversary is also an opportune time to look toward our nation's future, to some of the challenges in balancing a fight to defend ourselves with the need to pro- tect the rights and freedoms we all hold dear. Arab Americans have, out of necessity, been in the vanguard of those fighting to safeguard civil and constitutional rights - not just for the sake of those of Arab origin, but for all Americans. While it would be impossible to chronicle the entirety of these moving stories, this report endeavors to serve as a record of how Arab Americans responded to and were affect- ed by the momentous events of September 11, 2001. CHAPTER I “We are in the midst of a ARAB national nightmare of AMERICAN unimaginable proportions.” RESPONSE “Arab Americans, like all Americans, are transfixed by this tragedy. We have family and friends who worked in the TO THE World Trade Center. We mourn for those who lost their lives and those who were injured. We mourn, as well, for our SEPT. 11 country in this time of national trauma. “We urge our fellow citizens not to rush to judgment and ATTACKS point fingers at their Arab American neighbors and col- leagues who are suffering, like all Americans, from these des- picable acts. “Regardless of who is ultimately found to be responsible for these terrorist murders, no ethnic or religious communi- ty should be treated as suspect and collectively blamed.”

from an Arab American Institute press release, Sept. 11, 2001

his press release touches on ing this hurt and anger into dedicat- the horror that Arab ed efforts to help the victims and T Americans shared with the their families. It would be impossi- rest of the country as news of the ble to chronicle the full extent of the events in City, Arab American contribution to Washington DC, and Shanksville, relief and healing efforts; what fol- thrust themselves into lows are but a few examples. the national consciousness. Arab Rescue and Recovery Americans were consumed by all of the same emotions so familiar to all The ranks of law enforcement per- of us: disbelief and shock, anger, sonnel and firefighters who were grief, and a deep sense of violation. involved in the initial, heroic min- And they perished alongside their utes after the World Trade Center fellow citizens and those of some 80- attacks included Arab Americans. plus countries on that Tuesday Arab American physicians joined morning. those who tended to the wounded For Arab Americans, it was not in hospitals throughout the New just a violation of nation and citizen- York metropolitan area. Among the ry, but also of heritage and, for crowds that descended onto some, of faith. The attacks were a Ground Zero in the days and weeks particular affront to Arab after September 11 were Manhat- Americans, striking as they did at tan's deli owners, including Arab their collective sense of cultural Americans, to distribute sandwiches pride and religious belief. From the to the crews working to save people very first moments after the attacks, at the World Trade Center site and the Arab American community recover the remains of those who joined fellow Americans in channel- did not survive.

2 Ali Taqi, a firefighter from Troy, ed in the giving patterns of Arab October 3 profits from all of his , drove to Americans. restaurants to a relief fund for the the afternoon of the attacks, along Among those giving to the Red families of firefighters and police with seven other firefighters from Cross were many members of the officers killed in the World Trade Troy and nearby Bloomfield. Taqi Arab American community of Center attack. Helping is “our duty felt a deep sense of purpose in what Orlando, , under the leader- as American citizens,” Mr. Chahine he and his fellow firefighters were ship of the Arab Community said, and “a way to demonstrate that about to do, as an American and Center. They raised $50,000 by the I'm an Arab American, I love this particularly as an Arab American. 15th of September - 21 percent of country, and I'm committed to this “We're Americans, we're trying to the total donations received by the country.” (2) do as much as we can Andy Shallal, owner to help…We're griev- of three Washington ing also.” Taqi's group DC-area eateries, host- unloaded supplies, ed an event at his carried buckets of Mimi's American debris, and searched Bistro in Washington for victims at the site that raised $14,000, of the World Trade the entirety of the day's Center. (1) profits, for the Twin Iraqi-born Ron Towers Relief Fund. Kuley, a member of Shallal challenged fel- the Fairfax Country, low members of the Fire Depart- Restaurant Owner's ment, also joined a Association of Wash- team of relief workers ington to do the same that traveled to New thing. York and spent seven The Casablanca weeks at Ground Restaurant of Alex- Zero. And an Arab andria, Virginia, in American served as a partnership with a grief counselor to number of groups in support the families the Washington DC of Pentagon crash vic- photo: Max Ortiz, area, raised money in The News tims. late September to be Dr. Taufik Kassis, a used in support of medical resident at Jersey City Orlando Red Cross up to that Pentagon families who lost loved Medical Center across the Hudson point. The National Arab American ones in the attack on the Pentagon. River from the World Trade Center Medical Association brought in In a show of fraternal support, site, treated many of those wounded $100,000 in support of national the police officers and firefighters of on September 11. “It's important to and local American Red Cross 9/11 heavily Arab American Dearborn, speak out so people understand relief efforts. In Tarrant County, Michigan, raised $125,000 for the there is a huge difference between , the Arab American and families of the almost 350 firefight- the terrorists who committed these American Muslim communities ers who lost their lives working as attacks and other Muslims and raised $20,000, while the Al Aqsa part of the rescue effort at the site of Arabs or Arab Americans,” he said. Mosque of Philadelphia, Pennsyl- the World Trade Center. vania donated $15,000 to the Red The Southern Federation of Fundraising Cross Disaster Relief Fund. Syrian Lebanese American Clubs Arab American restauranteurs raised $20,000 for their September The American Red Cross was the hosted numerous fundraisers across 11 Fund, which was donated to the recipient of the largest concentra- the country for 9/11 disaster relief Twin Towers Orphan Fund. tion of funds nationwide in the funds. Talal Chahine, owner of the Bassam Amin of Bay Ridge, months after the tragedies of ten-restaurant La Shish chain in coordinated a fundraiser September 11, and this was reflect- Dearborn, Michigan, donated the at his mosque, the Beit El Maqdis

3 “We as Americans Islamic Center, which raised close to The Iraqi Center of Nashville, $5,000. Tennessee held a rally on September express in the strongest The Arab Bankers Association of 22 in front of the U.S. Courthouse manner possible our North America (ABANA) was able in Nashville to condemn the terror- utmost outrage at the to raise $100,000 in the Arab ist attacks as well as to show solidar- senseless and barbaric Bankers Association of North ity with their fellow Americans. The America Disaster Relief Fund. group collected donations, held a act of terrorism that Contributions, which came from blood drive, and made other plans occurred today around dozens of Arab American individu- to join in the relief effort. our nation. als and companies, were donated to Dearborn, Michigan community the New York City Firefighters 9/11 leaders sponsored a prayer vigil on We condemn this act Relief Fund. Geoffrey Milton, September 12 to remember the vic- of violence. ABANA Vice President and tims, and the Muslim community of We express our grief General Manager Greater of Arab Banking con- for the loss of life that Corporation, said “We are here to first ducted a spe- has taken place as a the funds were col- of all give our condo- cial prayer serv- result of this cowardly lected through “the lences to the families ice at the act of terrorism. efforts of dozens of Mosque individuals and of the victims of this Foundation in Our deepest sympathy organizations in Bridgeview, goes out to all the vic- the Arab American heinous crime.” for the tims and their families. business world who victims of the are dedicated to aiding those fami- attacks and their families. In a sense, we as a lies in their community suffering And for Arab Americans living in nation are also victims losses resulting from these horrible New York, the grief and fear in the of this tragedy... events.” (3) As ABANA President Dr. weeks following the terror attacks Hani Findakly said, “This effort is were overwhelming. Like all New We urge our commu- part of our responsibility to our com- Yorkers, shock and anger were pal- nity to join in volunteer- munity and larger family.” (4) pable. In the heavily Arab neighbor- ing in every possible hood of Brooklyn's Atlantic Avenue, a candlelight vigil brought way, including by par- Vigils, Rallies, together generations of mourners, ticipating in blood and Blood Drives some holding the photos of their drives and other human- sons on duty at Ground Zero. itarian needs to help Many groups held candlelight vigils, Thanks to the steady leadership rallies and blood drives to demon- and stamina of the Brooklyn-based reduce the suffering.” strate their support for the victims Arab American Family Support Center, hundreds of immigrants Statement from the Coalition of the attacks and their families. of Chicago Arab Organizations, The American Muslim Political were able to find counseling and September 11, 2001 Coordination Council (AMPCC) legal services to cope with trauma of organized its national membership the attacks, as well as the detentions to donate blood for the wounded in and the extra scrutiny placed on Washington, DC and New York. Arabs and Muslims. Despite modest “We are here to first of all give our resources and staff, the AAFSC condolences to the families of the under the direction of Emira victims of this heinous crime and to Habiby Browne stayed on the front give our support. This is the time to line as a vital link to the media, gov- give our charity and help those in ernment, and the general public. need because we are feeling the pain of everybody,” said Aly Abyzaakouk, Individual Efforts Executive Director of the American Individual contributions towards Muslim Council. (5) the healing of the nation were often

4 “We condemn in no uncertain terms the hor- rifying attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on September 11. We are shocked and angered by such brutality and share all the emotions of our fellow citizens against these attacks, which tar- geted all Americans without exception.” Statement from a meeting of Arab American and American Muslim Arab American members of the New York City Police Department who took part in the leaders in Washington, DC, rescue effort were honored at the Arab American Institute Foundation’s 2002 Kahlil September 12, 2001 Gibran “Spirit of Humanity” Awards gala. the most powerful and uplifting. tims of the terrorist attacks. “It's not Even as the fires continued to all about the money,” Ismail said. burn at the Pentagon, Kamal “The freedom that we have here, Nawash, an attorney in private prac- you can't take it for granted.” (7) tice in the Washington, DC area, The Utah National Guard, home enlisted the help of Arab American to the 300th Military Intelligence attorneys to assist the families of Brigade, was in need of and those who did not survive the Farsi translators after September 11. Pentagon attack. After soliciting the help of Arab “[We] condemn the Author Ray Hanania set up a spe- American groups to get the word horrifying series of cial section on his website where out to their communities, the Arab Americans could post mes- Guard was “overwhelmed” by the attacks on the World sages of support for the families of number of Arab Americans volun- Trade Center towers in those who died in New York City, teering as translators, according to New York and govern- in order to demonstrate that “we Capt. Chris Patterson. "We are get- ment buildings, includ- are not responsible for the killings, ting an outpouring of support from we do not support the murder of Arab Americans everywhere, one ing the Pentagon in innocent people and we do not sup- that I've heard has been duplicated Washington, DC...Arab port the terrorists who were behind at recruiting centers throughout the Americans view these this act.” (6) country.” (8) One of the largest providers of Similarly, the response to the attacks as targeting all American flags is the Alamo Flag FBI's appeal for Arabic translators Americans without Co. in Falls Church, Virginia. The was enormous. FBI Director Robert exception.” owner and founder of Alamo is S. Mueller said that after the initial Fawaz “Tony” Ismail, an American call for linguists on September 17, The American-Arab Anti- Discrimination Committee (ADC) of Palestinian descent. Ismail's com- “the Arab American community pany has sold millions of American and others immediately over- flags since September, with a por- whelmed our telephone switch- tion of the company's earnings board.” (9) ‹ going to assist the families of the vic-

5 CHAPTER II Phoenix, Arizona: On Sept. 15th, Frank Silva Roque shot to death Balbir Singh Sodhi. Roque allegedly killed Sodhi as part of a multiple-incident shooting rampage that included BACKLASH shootings at a Lebanese-American clerk who escaped injury, at another gas station in Mesa, and at the home of an Afghan AND THE family. (Arizona Republic, Sept. 18) NATION’S Reedley, : Abdo Ali Ahmed, a Yemeni grocer, was shot to death in his shop over the weekend. Family members RESPONSE said the day before he was killed, death threat that included anti-Arab statements was found on windshield of Ahmed's car. It is being investigated as a hate crime. (Washington Post, Oct. 3)

Fresno, California: Rien Said Ahmed was shot and killed while at work. Witnesses saw four males speed from the “Be it resolved that the store in white sedan. No money or merchandise was stolen. Congress- Ahmed had received threats since mid-September. (The Fresno Bee, Oct. 2) 1) declares that in the quest to identify, bring to justice, Cleveland, : Ford Mustang driven through entrance of and punish the perpetra- Ohio's largest mosque. Mosque unoccupied at time; only tors and sponsors of the driver injured. (Estimated damages: $100,000) (AP, Sept. 13) terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001, that the civil ithin hours of the support those of Arab heritage in rights and civil liberties of September 11 attacks, the United States. all Americans, including W the tragedy and violence Americans from all walks of life Arab-Americans, American of that terrible day was compound- made sincere and sustained efforts Muslims, and Americans ed by personal attacks on Americans to stand in solidarity with their Arab from South Asia, should be of Arab, Muslim, Sikh, and South American neighbors. Dialogues Asian heritage. Even Hispanic protected; and were started, various faiths empha- Americans were singled out for sized their common principles, and attack because of their physical sim- funds were donated to assist in the (2) condemns any acts of ilarities to Arabs. repair of damage from acts of van- violence or discrimination But it was just a tiny minority of dalism. The point was repeatedly against any Americans, Americans who carried out these made that the diversity of America including Arab-Americans, actions; the vast majority was dis- is what makes it strong and the fos- American Muslims, and gusted by and ashamed of such acts tering of such diversity will only Americans from South of hatred and misdirected anger. make the United States stronger. Asia.” Americans of all persuasions took proactive steps to come to the aid of Government Efforts Concurrent Resolution of the U.S. Arab and Muslim Americans and Congress, September 12, 2001 offer their sympathy and support at Early and forceful statements by a time when all Americans were President Bush put the federal gov- dealing with the shock and trauma ernment on record that acts of vio- inflicted upon the nation. lence against any Americans From government officials to com- because of their skin color, religious munity and religious leaders to ordi- affiliation, or ethnicity would not be nary citizens, Americans rallied to tolerated and would be punished to

6 the fullest extent of the law. Sikh, Christian and Jewish faiths, as Wisconsin, setting fire to a restau- On the day of the terrorist attacks, well as the Speaker of the House, rant in Utah, attempting to set fire Arab American and Muslim the Minority Leader, and the to a mosque in Seattle, assaulting American leaders were already in Minority Whip and was attended by managers of a hotel in Tennessee, Washington, DC for a previously members from the House of among many others. Also, Irving scheduled meeting with President Representatives. David Rubin and Earl Leslie Krugel Bush to discuss the use of “secret Among the federal agencies that of the Jewish Defense League have evidence” in certain immigration took early and proactive steps to been indicted for conspiring to proceedings and racial profiling of deal with the backlash was the Civil bomb a mosque and the California Arab Americans at the nation’s air- Rights Division of the Department office of Rep. Darrell Issa, an Arab ports and security checkpoints. of Justice. Assistant Attorney American member of the U.S. In the immediate aftermath of the General Ralph F. Boyd Jr. stated Congress. In Des Moines, Iowa, the attacks, these leaders set two goals: that “Any threats of violence or dis- Midwest Federation of American to give President Bush clear support crimination against Arab or Muslim Syrian-Lebanese Clubs was prohibit- for his response against ed from holding a con- the terrorist attacks, and vention at a Marriott to stave off the backlash “Our nation should be mindful that there are hotel. Marriott agreed against Arab and Muslim thousands of Arab Americans who live in to pay a fine and devel- Americans. New York City, who love their flag just as op a training program “As soon as the event to educate employees happened, we kicked into much as [we] do, and...that as we seek to win about Arab Americans. action,” said AAI the war, that we treat Arab Americans and In all, about 70 state Chairman George Salem. Muslims with the respect they deserve.” and local criminal civil “We anticipated the rights cases have been inevitable.” From the President George W. Bush, in a telephone conversation with New York initiated, and ten more Mayor Rudy Giuliani, September 12, 2001 White House to the FBI on the federal level. to the Justice Depart- Among the penalties for ment, it was emphasized early and Americans or Americans of South these crimes are time in jail, proba- often that hate crimes and discrimi- Asian descents are not just wrong tion and community service; some nation would not be tolerated. and un-American, but are also of those convicted were ordered to Congress also helped reassure the unlawful and will be treated as do service for the Arab Community Arab American population that the such.” (10) The Civil Rights Division Center for Economic and Social country stood with them and sup- established a special initiative to Services (ACCESS) in Dearborn, ported them after the attacks. The combat post-9/11 backlash, headed Michigan. U.S. Senate Democratic leadership by Joe Zogby, which faciliates refer- Within weeks of the September invited Arab American and Muslim ral of civil rights complaints, edu- 11 attacks, U.S. Equal Employment American leaders to the Capitol in cates communities about hate back- Opportunity Commission (EEOC) October to discuss ways to promote lash, and coordinates efforts with Chair Cari Dominguez initiated tolerance and acceptance of diversi- other government agencies. meetings with leaders of major Arab ty and to ensure the security of the The Department’s vigilance in American and Muslim organizatios United States. The meeting was also combating backlash has affected to receive community feedback on an opportunity to show that just as AAI directly. It tracked down and how the backlash was impacting the all Americans were united against prosecuted a man who had threat- workplace. By the summer, over 600 punishing those responsible for the ened AAI President James Zogby complaints had been filed by work- terrorist attacks, Americans are also and his family. This is just one ers alleging mostly religious discrim- united against acts of hate against example of the numerous cases in ination, predominantly discharges innocent Arab and Muslim which guilty pleas have been and harassment. Americans. obtained in the wake of the Given the serious increase in The United States Capitol build- Department’s increased focus on backlash related complaints, the ing was also the site for a Bipartisan 9/11-related abuse. EEOC issued in May fact sheets for Interfaith Event held ten days after Other cases involve the convic- both employers and employees that the terrorist attacks. The ceremony tion of a individuals telephoning a address frequently asked questions included speakers from the Muslim, bomb threat to a family in about the employment of Muslims,

7 Arabs, South Asians and Sikhs. Community Efforts The commission also posted as spe- cial “September 11 Information” Local communities came up with section with materials and resources many ways not only to denounce on its website. hate crimes, but also to demonstrate Secretary of Education Rod Paige that Arab Americans are an integral called on educators to take a leading part of their social fabric. role in the prevention of harassment In the northern Virginia suburbs, and violence directed at students county officials in Arlington and “Vigilante attacks and perceived to be Muslim or Arab Fairfax counties moved swiftly to threats against Arab- American. “We are all committed to confront the backlash by holding making sure our children across emergency press conferences that Americans will not be America can attend school in a safe featured the board of supervisors, tolerated. Such acts of and secure environment free from police chief, chairman of the school retaliation violate feder- harassment and threats,” Paige said. board, and human rights commis- The Secretary also stressed to educa- sioners. al law and, more partic- tors that when assemblies, class- Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley ularly, run counter to room discussions, and other school and Illinois Governor George Ryan the very principles of activities to honor victims of the declared November to be Arab tragedy are held, they do not inad- Heritage Month as a salute to the equality and freedom vertently foster targeting Muslim or community's contributions to socie- upon which our nation Arab American students for harass- ty. More than 500 Arab Americans is founded. The FBI and ment. (11) joined Mayor Daley and the the Department of State governments as well made Chicago Human Relations it clear that all citizens are equal Commission at the inaugural cele- Justice are committed to under the law and that any unlawful bration. Marwan Amarin, Advisory aggressively investigat- acts directed against fellow citizens Board Chairman of the Advisory ing and prosecuting would be dealt with promptly and Commission on Arab Affairs, appropriately. thanked Mayor Daley, “who was one violations of the federal The Pennsylvania Human of the first elected officials to formal- hate crime laws. We, to Relations Commission (PHRC), ly recognize in public the cultural date, have initiated 40 which enforces Pennsylvania's civil uniqueness of the Arab American rights laws, played a major role in community in Chicago…We are hate crime investiga- looking after the rights of Arab proud Americans. We will continue tions, involving report- Americans in that state after the to be proud Americans even in the ed attacks on Arab September 11 attacks. The most challenging of moments that American citizens and Pennsylvania Inter-Agency Task we face.” (12) Force on Civil Tension, a body with- In Paterson, , Mayor institutions.” in the PHRC, has focused specifical- Martin G. Barnes and other offi- ly on bias- or hate-related incidents cials joined local Arab American FBI Director Robert Mueller, in Pennsylvania. In much demand leaders for a joint press briefing on September 17, 2001 since September 11, the PHRC had September 14. The briefing fol- logged sixty hate-related incidents in lowed a series of meetings in which Pennsylvania as of late October. the Arab and Muslim community The State of California created a reported incidents of harassment. hotline to aid targets of harassment All Paterson officials present and hate crimes after September 11. emphasized that the community Staff members answering the calls, would not tolerate any discrimina- including interpreters, took reports tion or hate crimes. and helped callers fill out forms to The Human Rights Commission aid criminal investigators. of the City and County of San Francisco adopted a resolution two days after the attacks that had been

8 introduced by the Arab American crimes, building understanding, In an effort to promote racial and community there. The resolution and raising awareness. religious tolerance, the Afghan- condemned “all discrimination and In Indiana, Pennsylvania, posters American community in the racism directed against Arab and flyers in several languages were Washington, DC area, in collabora- Americans, Muslim Americans, and distributed stating: “Our communi- tion with several other organiza- people of Middle Eastern descent,” ty is a hate-free zone.” And: “Every tions and the American Red Cross, and “supports the use of all legal language on this poster is spoken by organized an Interfaith Memorial authority, and release additional members of the Indiana County on September 23 to show support resources as necessary, to prevent community, as are many other lan- for the victims of the attacks and for and respond to discrimination, hate guages. We have posted this sign to America itself. Speakers included crimes, and harassment in all show our commitment to keeping Muslim, Jewish, Sikh, Hindu, and forms.” (13) Christian leaders. Redford Township, “We have posted this sign to show The Korean American Michigan, hosted a three-day Coalition (KAC) lent its support diversity workshop in our commitment to keeping to Arab Americans, encouraging October entitled “Different Indiana a community that treats its members to support the People, Common Ground,” all its members fairly and with ideals of American democracy part of a series of workshops by contacting mosques or that have taken place respect, regardless of race, nation- Islamic schools to offer support. throughout Michigan since ality, or religion.” As the KAC National Executive 1999. The discussion sessions Director, Charles Kim, stated, included origins of stereotyping, Indiana a community that treats all “Any attack on someone of perceived effects of prejudice on the commu- its members fairly and with respect, Arab ancestry is not only an attack on nity, subtle ways prejudice is prac- regardless of race, nationality, or his or her civil rights, but also an attack ticed, and creating inclusive commu- religion.” (15) on our country's sense of justice and nities. “This program is a great way A direct response to fears of back- equality.” to strengthen relationships and lash in the Louisville, Kentucky, A lunchtime rally organized by a build new ones,” said Redford area was the implementation of the grassroots group of South Asian and Township Supervisor Kevin Kelley. Green Armband Project, which Asian Pacific Americans was held at (14) brought together volunteers who the National Japanese American In Philadelphia, the human rela- agreed to escort people who were Memorial to Patriotism in tions commission worked with afraid to venture out in public, to Washington, DC on September 13. Marwan Kreidie of the Arab speak out against harassment and to The gathering drew around 200 American Community Develop- patronize businesses owned by people to show solidarity with Arab ment Corporation to set up an Arabs or Muslims. Similarly, the and Muslim Americans. Arab American “control center” on Mennonite Church in Boise, Idaho Antonia Hernandez, president the day of the attacks to monitor offered to accompany members of and general counsel of the Mexican the needs of the community. They the Muslim community, particularly American Legal Defense and made sure the police knew where women who wear hijab, to shop, to Educational Fund, stressed that it Arab American areas were located school, or to pray. “remains incumbent on all and that mosques would be protect- Americans to ensure that no ethnic ed. They held meetings with the Organizations or religious group is targeted” and FBI and the Attorney General's The American-Arab Anti- that “our communities, the Arab office, offering assistance and mak- Discrimination Committee (ADC), American and the Latino, would ing sure that Arab Americans in addition to its fundraising and stand to suffer a great deal if any weren't going to be targeted. public education efforts post- widespread xenophobic reaction is The Orange County, California September 11, expanded its network not checked.” Commission on Human Relations of attorneys doing pro bono work to The Asian American Journalists adopted a plan entitled “Orange aid victims of hate crimes and dis- Association urged the news media County Together: United We crimination, in cooperation with to maintain responsible news Stand” to respond to the increase in the National Lawyer's Guild and the reporting of Arab Americans. In a hate crimes after September 11. The American Immigration Lawyers press release issued by the AAJA, plan involved responding to hate Association. they reminded the media that “Arab 9 Americans, along with all of us, are The California Endowment of $25,000 to assist families and organ- victims of this attack.” Southern California focused on izations who were victims of hate One aspect of the response to the granting millions of dollars in fund- crimes in the aftermath of the ter- September 11 attacks was the cre- ing to grassroots organizations rorist attacks. Partnering with the ation of new organizations. One of throughout the region that were Arab American Institute Foun- these is Solidarity USA, based in committed to combating intoler- dation, AmeriDream established Washington, DC, which is a civil ance. “One of the things we wanted the Arab American Rebuilding liberties and human rights advocacy to do was reach into communities Fund to assist Arab Americans and task force. It monitors human rights and support programs that focus others who were victims of bias and civil liberties violations of around reducing hate and increas- attacks. Muslims, Arabs, South Asians and ing understanding - particularly “All Americans were deeply affect- anyone else who has been affected understanding the culture of Arab ed by the attacks in New York and by the post-September 11 Washington last backlash. The group has September. It is unfor- also worked to refer those tunate that certain in need of humanitarian “It has been a difficult time... Americans were fur- aid and legal consulta- ther victimized by tion to appropriate legal feeling pain with the rest of the hate crimes simply as and humanitarian organ- nation and at times feeling ostra- a result of their her- izations. itage,” said Steve Neighbors for Peace, cized. But when we began feeling Smith of Ameri- too, was founded in Dream. The Fund response to the like we didn't belong, our com- provided grants to September 11th tragedies those who suffered by a group of concerned munity embraced us with love property damage on citizens in the Chicago and support.” or after September 11. area. Stirred to action by Eight Arab, Muslim, escalating hate violence, and Sikh American the group, under the leadership of Americans and Muslims,” according families and two religious institu- Anya Cordell, formed the to Gwen Foster, program director tions from ten cities across the Campaign for Collateral for the California Endowment. (17) United States were assisted by this Compassion, a grassroots move- The Open Society Institute made program. ment petitioning the major grants to 29 frontline organizations One recipient of the AmeriDream September 11th charities to include nationwide to meet the post-9/11 grants was the Islamic Center of as beneficiaries families of victims of challenges to civil rights and liber- Greater Toledo, after an unknown the racist backlash. Amber ties. More than $2.5 million was assailant fired one shot on Amundson, whose husband was donated in April to promote the September 12th at the Center's killed at the Pentagon, and five oth- safeguarding of civil liberties and stained glass window. Center ers who also lost family in the immigrant rights and monitor hate Property Chair Mr. Hider Naserdin, attacks, endorsed the group's crimes and racial profiling. Several in accepting a $1,000 AmeriDream efforts, saying that “As members of Arab American organizations, grant, commented: “It has been a September Eleventh Families for including AAI and ADC, were difficult time for a lot of Muslim Peaceful Tomorrows, and friends among those awarded by OSI. The Americans, feeling pain with the and relatives of 9/11 victims, we Atlantic Philanthropies also funded rest of the nation and at times feel- support ways of helping those who work to support affected communi- ing ostracized. But when we began have been victims of 9/11 hate ties, and in January the New York- feeling like we didn't belong, our crimes. They too are victims of ter- based Grantmakers Concerned with community embraced us with love rorism, just like those who died on Immigrant Rights cosponsored a and support.” September 11.” briefing for funders on policy The Sikh Cultural Society of Several philanthropic organiza- changes and direct needs in the Washington, DC was another one tions awarded grants to support the aftermath of the attacks. of the grant recipients. The society victims of the backlash and the com- In February, the Maryland-based was attacked with spray paint and munities most affected by it. AmeriDream Charity, Inc. awarded eggs in late October. A flag and

10 Sikh banner were also vandalized. frankly against hate violence. Mary tion with AAI, ran it as a print pub- AmeriDream awarded $2,750 to the Berry, Chair of the U.S. lic service announcement in over society. An appreciative Satwant Commission on Civil Rights, 10,000 newspapers and 1300 maga- Kaur Bell, board member of the Attorney General John Ashcroft, zines across the United States. AAI society, stated that “We must work Arizona Senator John McCain, and converted the ad to a full-color in unity, we are all Americans, pop music superstar Mandy Moore poster (see box on the next page) together we become one. United we acted as the spokespersons for the and began distributing it to schools are one.” four spots, which were also promot- and community groups as part of its “While a few have chosen to use ed on AAI's website. own public information campaign. violence to drive Americans apart, Meanwhile, in the Cleveland, Ohio The powerful message of the poster many more have decided that our offices of advertising agency Brokaw, resonated so well that AAI has diversity is the basis of Amercia's Inc., Bill Brokaw and his staff were made it available for shipping costs strength. The partnership between trying to come up with a way to con- only via Amazon.com. AmeriDream and the Arab tribute to the nation's healing.After Meanwhile, Starz Encore Group, American Institute in the hearing from a Pakistani employee the leading provider of cable and Rebuilding Fund is one that proves that his wife was so afraid of being satellite delivered premium movie that, in the aftermath of September attacked as a Muslim that she channels in the United States, was 11, when we come together, we can refused to leave the house, Brokaw also looking for a way to help the turn adversity into prosperity,” said knew the direction his agency would victims of intolerance. Its founder AAI President James Zogby. (17) take. The agency created a print ad and president, John Sie, himself an entitled “Twin Towers,” featuring immigrant, empathized deeply with Media Efforts the anti-hate message of the ad form- those being targeted for hate since Some of the widest-reaching efforts ing the image of the fallen World September 11. to stem the tide of hate violence and Trade Center towers. They decided to produce a televi- intolerance after September 11 In an effort to gain a wider audi- sion spot conveying the message of came from dedicated media profes- ence, Brokaw submitted his idea to “Tolerance” and working with AAI sionals. Taking a leading role, the the Ad Council which, in coopera- and Brokaw, a version of the “Twin New York-based Ad Council launched a powerful series of print, radio, and television public service announcements against hate, their largest single advertising campaign since World War II. The campaign against hate began with a series of “I am an American” television spots that featured faces representing the diversity of America's racial and ethnic back- grounds, including Middle Eastern, South Asian and other groups most victimized by the backlash. The Ad Council then collaborat- ed with the Arab American Institute to produce a series of four radio spots that spoke forcefully and

Members of the Islamic House of Wisdom in Michigan held a special prayer for the victims of the Sept. 11 attacks. They invited members of local Christian churches, shown here seated in the background, to attend. (photo: Millard Berry, Dearborn Press & Guide)

11 “I wish to extend my apologies to Arab Americans everywhere for the unconscionable

The Brokaw Inc./Ad Council/Arab American Institute anti-hate poster “Twin Towers.” The text reads:

“Will hate bring it all back? Will it bring back the innocence? The sense of security? Will it bring back the husbands and wives and sons and daughters? Will hate make us better than those who hate us? Or merely bring us closer to them? Will hate help us destroy our enemies? Or will it laugh as we destroy our- selves? There are those who say we don't know who our enemy is. “But we do. Our enemy is a neighborhood mosque defaced by vandals. An Arab- American storekeeper in fear of reprisal. A scared Muslim child bullied because she is different. Hate is our enemy. And when we start to hate other Americans, we have lost everything. Hate has taken enough from us already. Don't let it take you.”

Towers” print ad was converted into Individual Efforts control, and it hurt them.” (18) a television spot featuring the narra- Adisra Jittipun, a Muslim woman tion of “Family Ties” star Michael Sometimes it is the smallest acts of who wears a headscarf, and two non- Gross. support and friendship that make Muslim friends had just sat down to In addition to airing the spot on its the biggest statement. eat at the Chason's Country Buffet own ten cable channels, Starz In the small town of Ephrata, in Winchester, VA when a waitress Encore enlisted the support of the Pennsylvania, two Egyptian broth- approached them. The three expect- six largest cable operators in the ers, Osama and Muhamad “Mike” ed trouble, but instead the waitress nation, among them Comcast and Mansour, immigrated to the United returned their money, explaining Time Warner, to run the public States in 1987 and opened a new that the restaurant wanted to give service announcements in all of diner at a location that had seen two them a free meal. “She knelt by our their markets. The total number of other eateries come and go. They table and was very sympathetic,” said households exposed to the ads was found success, until Sept. 11. Jittipun, “saying that she didn't want 64 million. Shortly after the attacks, rumors us to go to war” and that “she was The campaign was announced in began to circulate that the two were very proud that I had the strength to December at the largest Arab somehow connected to the attacks, wear the Islamic attire.” (19) American press conference ever, and business plummeted. After a An attorney from Columbus, which was held at the National local newspaper reporter wrote of Mississippi offered his legal assis- Press Club in Washington, DC. The their plight, business not only tance to Arab Americans living in press conference featured Starz picked up, but exceeded its previous Mississippi and Alabama. In Encore CEO John Sie, Motion brisk pace. “The people who started Rockville, Maryland, Linda Jasper, Picture Academy of Arts and these rumors should be man an English teacher at Rockville's Sciences President Jack Valenti, enough to come in and apologize,” Magruder High School, and some Secretary of Energy Spencer said Dave Brossman, a regular. friends stood guard at night for a Abraham, and Secretary of Another longtime customer, Elroy week outside the Islamic Center of Transportation Norman Minetta. Stauffer, said, “these are just two Maryland to make sure it was undis- great guys. The rumors got out of turbed. “The idea of someone being

12 “My heart and thoughts are with you and all Arab and Muslim Americans. I committed by some against you at this sad time in our country.” - Arlene Rosso-Baron

afraid to pray is crazy to me,” she said. for Collateral Compassion. AAI received an outpouring of The Islamic Center in Athens, Ohio, After severe damage to Columbus, support, in the form of emails, reported being mailed a $100 check Ohio's oldest mosque and only from individuals around the country in the days and weeks from a non-Muslim couple who Islamic school at the hands of van- following September 11: wrote that “we are all one people.” (20) dals, the First Congregational In Falls Church, Virginia, Patricia Church volunteered its facilities as Morris organized a candlelight vigil the new temporary home of the outside the Dar al-Hijrah mosque Islamic school. It was chosen by the the Friday after the attacks to show Islamic Center's leaders due to its neighborhood support. In apprecia- size and proximity to the school's “I know that you are tion, Muslims who had been at regular home. A number of other suffering with all evening prayers distributed white houses of worship offered their America because of roses to the vigil's participants. sites, including a synagogue. The the events of the past George Chiplock, principal of Rev. Tim Ahrens, First Congre- few days, and are Corpus Christi, a Catholic elemen- gational's senior minister, noticed being forced by some tary school in Falls Church, how similar the children were to his Virginia, brought more than 450 own students, remarking that when to endure even more cards made by students to the near- he asked if they liked being back in sorrow because of by Dar Al-Hijrah mosque. “We school, all the girls said ‘yes’ and all your ethnicity. Please teach respect, tolerance, and love of the boys said ‘no’, “just like my know that your pain is neighbor here,” he said, “and school.” Mahmudur Rahman, the not going unnoticed thought it would be a good idea to Islamic school's director, felt com- and that the whole contact our neighbors and let them fortable holding classes in the country is not against know we are thinking of them.” (21) church, pointing out that Muslims Houses of worship across the reli- believe in Jesus as a prophet. (22) you.” gious spectrum including Muslims, A number of people set up soli- - Joe Borghi Christians, Jews, Sikhs, Hindus, darity websites where web surfers and others participated in ecumeni- could post messages of support for cal services across the nation in sup- the Arab American community. port of tolerance and diversity. In Among the most immediate ges- Orlando, Florida, religious leaders tures extended to the Arab “What is done to any held such a service a week after the American community were the American, regardless attacks to express solidarity with thousands of personal email mes- of their background, is Arab Americans of all faiths. sages sent to AAI and to other “There's a feeling among a group of organizations. done to all of us, and religious leaders that we need to A fitting close to this focus on the those who persist in make a public witness of solidarity compassion of Americans towards expressing their igno- with our Arab American brothers Americans in the face of hate is the rance and hatred only and sisters,” said the Rev. Fred experience of Pakistani-born help those that mean Morris, executive director of the Richmond, Virginia doctor Abid to do us harm. We are Florida Council of Churches. Khan. Upon seeing members of a deeply sorry that you In Berkeley, California, Inkworks Presbyterian church outside his Press created window signs with the mosque one Friday holding up ban- have to have such captions “Justice, not Vengeance/ ners of unity, he encapsulated the burdens added to an Let us not become the evil that we beauty of the American spirit when already overwhelming deplore,” and “Hate-Free Com- he said: “You have to give the credit sense of violation.” munity/Stop Racist Attacks,” for to the people who are keeping a pos- - Gregg Ferencz free distribution. itive, friendly attitude. That's what and Barbara Taylor A group of Chicago businessmen makes America great. It's not its mil- pledged $7000 to the families of itary or its advances in science. It's those who were murdered in hate the kindness, affection, helpfulness, crimes after September 11, after and tolerance which is found in the consultations with the Campaign large majority of people here.” (23) ‹ sickened at the misdirected anger of our fellow citizens.” - Alison Locke 13 Naomi Shihab Nye, the acclaimed Arab American author and In Their poet, heard from a man who said that he was afraid for his daughter to admit that she is half-Arab. Her response was: "never deny it. Maybe Arab Americans Own Words are twice as sad as other people. But we are still proud of everything peaceful and beautiful that endures. Then speak From a poem beauty if we can - the beauty of culture, poetry, tradition, by Suheir Hammad: memory, family, daily life. “Because men with hard faces do violent things, because fire in the city air and i fanaticism seizes and shrinks minds, is no reason for the rest feared for my sister’s life in of us to abandon our songs. Maybe we need to sing louder." a way never before. and then, and now, i fear for the rest of us.

first, please god, let it be a mistake, the pilot’s heart failed, the plane’s engine died. then please god, let it be a nightmare, wake me now. please god, after the second plane, please, don’t let it be anyone who looks like my brothers.

i do not know how bad a life has to break in order to kill. i have never been so hungry that i willed hunger i have never been so angry as to want to control a gun over a pen. not really. Dearborn, Michigan, even as a woman, as a September 2001 (photo: Millard Berry, palestinian, as a broken Dearborn Press & human being. Guide) never this broken.

"In My Own Skin: The Complexity of Living as an Arab in thank you to the woman America," a documentary film directed by Jennifer Jajeh and who saw me brinking my Nikki Byrd, sheds light on the complexities of the Arab cool and blinking back tears. American experience through candid, in-depth interviews with she opened her arms before five young Arab American women living in post-September 11 she asked “do you want a New York: hug?” a big white woman, and her embrace was the “In high school, my friends who think it's just a joke or they kind only people with the don't mean to hurt my feelings say, 'You Arab terrorist,' in a warmth of flesh can offer. joking way. But to me it was always hurtful because it's what a i wasn’t about to say no lot of people believe - it's the general perception that to any comfort. Americans have of who an Arab is.” “my brother’s in the navy,” “Recently, because of what happened on September 11th, I i said. “and we’re arabs.” was afraid to walk out on the street with my regular headwear. “wow, you got double So I tied it around the back, so I don't look Muslim or Arab or I trouble.” don't get too many stares.” - Rabyaah

14 CHAPTER II t was not only the support of the volume of requests for information American people that kept the that hit every major Arab American I Arab American community and Muslim organization and aca- ARAB strong in the face of hate crimes, but demic center with expertise in the also the proactive stance taken by region. AAI, for example, dedicated the community itself. Both individ- on September 12 a special section of AMERICANS uals and groups recognized the need its website that offered resources, to educate fellow Americans about made referrals, and kept track of REACH OUT Arab culture and the Muslim faith - breaking news about the fallout and recognized the desire of many from September 11. On September TO EDUCATE Americans to learn more about 10, AAI had projected reaching five their Arab and Muslim neighbors. million hits on the website by the An editorial in The Economist end of the year; instead the number AND INFORM remarked that “Rather than railing was ten million. against the Islamic world, most Media interest in the Arab Americans are desperate to under- American viewpoint was obviously stand it. The best-seller lists are full at its peak after 9/11, and requests of books on Islam, the Taliban and for interviews from the electronic the . University students and print media (local, national and are crowding into courses that touch international) were heavy and steady on the current crisis. Washington's throughout the fall. For AAI’s part, Middle East Institute reports that staff members participated in more applications for Arabic courses have than 400 broadcast interviews doubled.” (24) including television networks such Arab Americans, both organiza- as ABC, NBC, CBS, CNN, CNNI, tions and individuals, have helped BBC, Unavision, Al-Jazeera, FOX their fellow countrymen better News, MBC, MSNBC, Abu Dhabi understand what being Arab TV, CNBC, Nile TV, LBC, Court American means. TV, Telemundo, Future TV, CBC, The surge in public interest about and ANN. In the months following Arab Americans, Islam, and the September 11, AAI responded to Middle East is exemplified by the more than 1,500 print interviews

Immediately after the September 11 tragedy, Nour Naciri and his wife Zainab A. Elberry of Nashville, Tennessee, received calls and visits of concern, friendship, and support from many members of their community. Both saw not only a tremendous need for understanding and tolerance, but also a desire among those in their community to learn and come together in a time of crisis. On October 23, Nour delivered an address entitled "Islam: An Overview in Context" to around 500 members of the Nashville chap- ter of the Exchange Club, a national business social and volunteer organization, by invitation of a local church. The gathering spawned further visits and meetings with church and interfaith groups. Zeinab, who is a board member of the Women's Fund of the Nashville Community Foundation, helped organize the Foundation's annual fundraiser for women and children. Mavis Leno, wife of late- night talk show host Jay Leno, was the guest speaker at the event, and spoke in support of the rights of Afghan women and children. In May, Zeinab was asked to organize the annual fundraiser for The Links, Inc., an African-American civic organization. The event, attend- ed by many members of the local Muslim community, became an opportunity for intercultural and interfaith understanding.

15 with publications like the New York and the West featuring many promi- and the Arab American experience Times, Washington Post, Los nent scholars and analysts. (See in the aftermath of the attacks. The Angeles Times and countless others appendices.) program will over the next two years across the nation and around the Perhaps the most intense appetite offer “cultural competency” training world. for information came from the and education to those in positions AAI also responded to regular invi- nation's educators, who needed to to influence the attitudes and tations for speakers from federal take advantage of the critical teach- behavior of others, such as state leg- and local government agencies, civic ing moment brought about by islators, teachers, and law enforce- groups, and universities. Not only tragedy and its aftermath. AAI's ment personnel in major cities did AAI staff deliver keynote Foundation quickly compiled a throughout the state of Michigan. speeches to conferences and gather- resource packet for use in class- Jamal Baadani, a Marine Corps ings regarding Arab Americans and rooms that answered questions staff sergeant and Gulf War veteran, the impact of September 11, AAI about Arab Americans, Muslims, decided to form an organization to also addressed numerous public and the , using its own highlight the contributions Arab appearances ranging from testimony demographic profiles and handouts Americans have made in the armed before members of Congress to pan- from other publishers. Since the forces of the United States, dating els sponsored by the EEOC, early fall, several thousand schools back to World War I. “We want to Department of Justice, FAA, nationwide have received resource close that gap by educating Department of Transportation, packets and poster reprints of the Americans about our service, Department of State, U.S. “Twin Towers” anti-hate PSA mes- because the more Americans under- Commission on Civil Rights, state sage (see page 12). (A complete list stand what we do, the more they'll and local agencies, the National of materials available from AAI say, OK, they are Americans.” Association of Attorneys General, appears in the appendices to this Baadani's group, the Association of the National Newspaper Publishers report.) Patriotic Arab Americans in the Association, the American Feder- The Arab Community Center for Military (APAAM), has over 300 ation of Teachers, National Economic and Social Services members from all of the US armed Immigration Forum, and similar (ACCESS), based in Dearborn, services. (25) professional associations. AAI Pres- Michigan, embarked upon an ambi- Various Muslim organizations ident James Zogby participated in tious program of educating opened their doors to the public in President Clinton’s forum on Islam Americans about the Arab world an effort to bridge the gaps in understanding. The mosque in Birmingham, Alabama hosted an New Yorker Debbie Almontaser, a open house to educate Americans Yemeni who came to the US at the age of three, was deeply struck by the about Islam. The Prince George's Sept. 11 tragedy. A teacher with the County, Maryland Muslim NYC Board of Education, she was Association is involved in an ongo- overwhelmed with requests by com- ing effort to educate the public munity groups to help foster interfaith about Islam. dialogue after the attacks, and has The Dar Al Hijrah Islamic Center discussed her faith and heritage in countless classrooms and panels. in Falls Church, Virginia has under- Debbie co-founded Brooklyn Brid- taken a program entitled “The ges, a program in which volunteers Peaceful Inter-Community Project” escorted students of Arab and South (PIP). PIP's main objective is to Asian origin who feared for their safe- improve relationships among mem- ty. With the help of the Christian Children’s Fund, she established the bers of the community near the Sept. 11 Curriculum Project, a group Islamic Center, across lines of race, Almontaser holds a picture of educators who developed materials ethnicity, class, and age through of her son and workshops to educate other workshops, a youth forum, guest Yousif, a teachers about Arab and Muslim cul- exchange speeches, and a continu- National ture. And in February, she put togeth- ous mentoring program. The Guardsman er a multicultural festival and fundrais- who served at er with Arab, Jewish, and South Asian Center stressed that this undertak- Ground Zero performers. ing is particularly important in the aftermath of September 11.

16 The Power of After September 11, Individual Action Samira worked tire- lessly within the Individuals across the country spoke Maryland public school with religious groups, schools, busi- system to combat a nesses, and community organiza- resurgence in hatred tions about the impact of she had herself experi- September 11 on Arab Americans as enced during the Gulf War. A few days after well as what Islam is really about. A the attacks, she spoke prime example of individuals mak- on a three-hour inter- ing a difference is the case of Dr. faith panel on National Ahmad Abul-Ela of New Castle, Public Radio. She Pennsylvania. Besides speaking organized an iftar meal at a local mosque for about Islam to large groups at vari- public school teachers ous churches, he started a group so they could experi- called Conflict Resolution with a photo: William Mills ence Ramadan with professor of theology from American Muslims, and Westminster College. The group Samira Hussein and her family lost held a conference for over 400 high sponsored a student-faculty talk at their home in the June school students to discuss Islam and 1967 war and emigrated to America oversaw the establishment of Arab the college, which drew 400 people, five years later. Heritage Month in July 2002. discussing Islam and the terrorist Growing up in America, Samira For her work as a cultural liaison, attacks. observed that few people truly under- Samira has been awarded the Mona Ismail of Washington, DC stood Arab and Muslim culture. Distinguished Service Award by the posted events organized by Arab During the Gulf War, her family expe- Montgomery Country Board of rienced acts of hatred due to this lack Education, and in February 2002 she American organizations on her web- of understanding. Samira volun- was recognized in Rosie magazine site. “Educating Americans and teered to share her culture and reli- as one of Rosie O'Donnell's guiding them to find the best source gion at her daughter's school in "Extraordinary People." In March of information was a priority in my Montgomery County, Maryland. Soon 2002 she was inducted into the view, as a lot of damage was done to her work became a full time job in Human Rights Hall of Fame of the our community and our children educating both students and teachers Montgomery County Human Rights about the Arab and Muslim worlds. Commission. from the bias in the media,” said Ismail. Mary Kamalick, an Arab American On the morning of September 11, Marwan Kreidie, from Houston, Texas, has been pro- executive director of the Arab American Community Development Corporation, was busy making phone viding information on the customs calls. Even before the second plane had stuck the and traditions of the Arab world, World Trade Center towers, Marwan was networking focusing on language, religions, with the police and the Human Relations Commission food, customs and traditions. She of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to establish an Arab takes her program to middle school American “control center” made up of volunteers who called schools, mosques, and area leaders to console and high school students, church them and calm fears. and civic groups, and companies. At 2 pm that same day, Marwan held a press confer- Diversity trainer Lobna Ismail has ence with Tawfiq Barqawi to mourn the country's loss spoken on the impact of September and call on residents of Philadelphia to avoid hate-relat- 11 on Arab and Muslim Americans ed violence against the Arab community. He met with the FBI and Pennsylvania and on Islam to a wide range of Attorney General Mike Fisher to offer assistance and gain assurance that Arab Americans would not be targeted in backlash after the attacks. To increase groups, including the Jewish awareness and understanding, Marwan organized a community forum at a Community Center, an Epis- Philadelphia mosque which was attended by many local government officials. copalian Church, and the Fairfax Since September 11, Marwan has turned his attention to long-term outreach County Virginia Schools. Virginia and education. He distributes action alerts about Arabs and Islam to public activist and educator Sharifa Al- school teachers, and recently received over $100,000 in grant money from the Samuel S. Fels Fund and the William Penn Foundation to expand his educa- Khateeb has also made dozens of tional program. He is planning to develop a permanent curriculum guide for pub- presentations on Islam to govern- lic schools on Arab and Muslim culture. ment and school groups. ‹

17 CHAPTER IV rab American groups have indefinite period of time; expand been in the vanguard of the ability of the government to Athose fighting to balance conduct secret searches; minimize the nation's need for securi- judicial supervision of federal tele- CIVIL ty with protection of fundamental phone and Internet surveillance by rights and freedoms. Many actions law enforcement authorities.” (26) RIGHTS taken since September 11 in the Senator Russ Feingold (D-WI) cast name of the “war on terrorism” have the sole vote against the Act in the ISSUES IN far-reaching implications not just for Senate, saying that it did “not strike those of Arab or Muslim descent, the right balance between empower- THE WAKE but for all Americans. ing law enforcement and protecting civil liberties.” (27) Rep. Lynn Woolsey (D-CA) echoed this senti- OF SEPT. 11 The USA PATRIOT Act ment by saying that “the Bill of and Civil Liberties Rights, civil rights and civil liberties must not be the 'other victim' of ter- When the USA PATRIOT rorism. As the domestic war against (“Uniting and Strengthening terrorism continues, my concern is America by Providing Appropriate that increased police power will Tools Required to Intercept and encroach on our liberties.” (28) Obstruct Terrorism”) Act passed by an overwhelming majority in Congress and was signed by Executive Branch Orders (29) President Bush in October, it pro- vided a legal framework for much of The USA PATRIOT Act was the the Administration's war on terror- launching pad for a series of ism and raised immediate alarms Department of Justice initiatives within the civil rights and civil lib- and executive orders that gave the erties communities. This act gave government even more investigative the government broad new inves- power and changed immigration tigative powers as well as the power rules to make them more restrictive to detain and deport, based on little to those coming from Middle or no information, those who are Eastern countries. believed to pose a special threat. A growing number of ethnic and While recognizing some merits of religious groups, immigrant advo- the new legislation, a number of cates, and supporters of civil liber- groups, including the American ties have coalesced to raise aware- Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the ness to the serious threats to National Council of La Raza, the American rights and interests posed National Asian Pacific American by these initiatives. These groups Legal Consortium (NAPALC), the have worked to ensure that the Sikh Coalition, and major Arab requirements of security are recon- American and Muslim American ciled with the demands of liberty, organizations, raised concern about and have warned against enacting the “guilt by association” the Act proposals in the mistaken belief promulgates as well as the tenuous that anything that may be called terms used to define groups sup- anti-terrorist will necessarily provide porting terror. The ACLU's greater security. Timothy Edgar warned of the These coalitions have stood by “measures that would allow for their Arab and Muslim American detention of immigrants on the partners in defending constitution- basis of lawful political associations al liberties and working to ensure and suspicion for a potentially that the United States does not

18 repeat historical mistakes of the have been held in indefinite deten- Wisconsin Police Department, the Japanese internment camps or of tion since September 11. Working force “will not engage in random the McCarthy era. Wade with the ACLU and other civil interviews of any person solely based Henderson, executive director of rights advocacy groups, Arab on their country of origin, race, reli- the Leadership Conference on Civil Americans are closely monitoring gion, or any other characteristics Rights, warned that “History has the activities of the federal govern- unless there is specific evidence shown us that, in past times of ment regarding the welfare of the linked to that person for a criminal national calamity, civil rights and several hundred individuals still act.” (30) Many police departments, civil liberties fall victim to the crisis being held. who have since been asked to also just as surely as the human victims In addition, the questioning by track down visa violators, object to whose loss we all grieve. We must the FBI of many thousands of indi- the strain those functions place on not compound this tragedy by viduals due to their country of ori- relations of trust they have built with infringing on the rights of gin caused much unease. immigrant communities. Americans or persons guaranteed On November 9, 2001, the Uncomfortable comparisons have protections under the been made to the treatment Constitution.” of Japanese Americans after The detention of hun- Many actions taken since the attack on Pearl Harbor. dreds of men of Middle The National Asian Pacific Eastern origin shortly September 11 have far- American Legal Consortium after the attacks was anoth- reaching implications not (NAPALC) has pointed out er source of serious con- that the “solidarity between cern. The Department of just for those of Arab or communities identified as Justice justified the deten- Muslim descent, but for 'the enemy' has in some cases tions through the use of forged a new alliance often questionable legal all Americans. between Japanese Americans tactics. On September 20, and Arab Americans and 2001, the Department published an Attorney General issued a memo Muslims.” In the words of NAPALC interim regulation allowing the authorizing interviews with a list of President Karen Naranski, “Let us detention without charge for 48 5,000 men, ages 18-33, who entered take to heart the lessons of WWII hours or “an additional reasonable the United States legally on nonim- when … Japanese-American families period of time” in the event of an migrant visas since January 2000, were herded behind barbed wire “emergency or other extraordinary and who came from countries where simply because they looked like the circumstance.” This led to the al-Qaeda has a “terrorist presence or enemy...No one should be pre- detention and often rough treat- activity.” sumed to be any less loyal to our ment of over 1,100 individuals in Said one of those who received the country just because of the color of the wake of September 11, some of letter requesting a meeting with the their skin, their national origin, whom are still held to this day, FBI, a Lebanese chemistry student their immigration status or the reli- unable to gain regular access to their at the University of Michigan, “I was gion that they follow.” (31) attorneys or families. shocked. I was asking myself, ‘Why?’ The day after this detention rul- There's no reason to have this let- ing, Chief Immigration Judge ter.” AAI President James Zogby Investigation and Michael Creppy added another level expressed concerns that “the kind of Individual Rights of secrecy when he issued a memo broad net-casting that was done stating that “the Attorney General right after September 11 may have Arousing particular alarm in the has implemented additional security been excusable, but at this point legal profession was the October procedures for certain cases in the there has to be a better way of con- 31, 2001 Bureau of Prisons interim Immigration Court.” These proce- ducting this investigation...I don't regulation that allowed eavesdrop- dures “require” immigration judges want to give up our freedoms.” ping on attorney/client conversa- “to close the hearing to the pub- From the outset, some local law tions wherever there is “reasonable lic….” enforcement agencies took issue suspicion…to believe that a particu- The Arab American community with the mass questioning. lar inmate may use communica- continues to work diligently as advo- According to Chief Richard tions with attorneys to further or cates for the civil rights of those who Williams of the Madison, facilitate acts of terrorism,” with the

19 regulation requiring written notice they were hoping to find. 11, and that close to two-thirds are to the inmate and attorney, “except An announcement in August very or somewhat worried about the in the case of prior court authoriza- 2002 that the FBI would target long-term effects of discrimination. tion.” Further constitutional ques- small businesses owned by persons Airline passenger profiling has tions arose when President Bush of Arab or Muslim descent to search become a common complaint of issued an executive order in for money trails to terrorist groups Arab and Muslim Americans, rang- November authorizing the creation was another chilling reminder of ing from extra security screening to of military tribunals to try non-citi- how widely the government's drag- removal from commercial flights. zens alleged to be involved in inter- net is being cast. The ramifications Among those removed from flights national terrorism. of this investigative strategy, both on have been a U.S. Congressman and While the rights of foreign nation- the affected business communities a U.S. Secret Service agent on the als remained of primary President's detail, as concern throughout this well as others who have period, the treatment of filed discrimination American citizens and suits against the air- organizations added a lines. Community lead- new dimension to the ers continue to bring impact on the communi- these concerns to the ty of the government's attention of the investigation. U.S. Department of Trans- Muslim charities legally portation and other operating in Texas, agencies charged with Chicago and Michigan protecting passenger were the first to be target- rights. Leaders stress ed for scrutiny, resulting that while all in freezing of assets, Americans, including seizure of records and in those of Arab and some cases charges filed Muslim descent, sup- against officers accused port in-creased airline of aiding, even indirectly, safety, profiling meas- groups defined by the ures that rely on ethnic U.S. as terrorist. or religious attributes In mid-March, the alone, rather than sus- offices and homes of picious conduct, do individuals related to not promote security. fourteen U.S. Muslim organizations were raid- ed. In the latter cases, Impact on none of the offices were photo: Max Ortiz, Immigration closed, no arrests were The Detroit News Policy made, and no assets were frozen. As victims of Immigration has long those raided are prominent mem- and on the credibility of the anti-ter- been a contentious issue in the bers of their communities, the ror investigation, remain to be seen. United States, and following shock was severe. Federal officials Although racial profiling against September 11, some lawmakers entered homes at gunpoint, hand- Arabs was a concern well before the began using immigration policy as a cuffed residents during the raids, terror attacks, its scope and impact scapegoat for the terrorist attacks. carted off boxes of materials, and have expanded dramatically. A May Members of Congress introduced destroyed some property, all the 2002 poll commissioned by the AAI legislation that restricts admissions, while using affidavits which were Foundation found that 78 percent particularly from Arab countries. “secret and sealed,” giving the vic- of Arab Americans surveyed think The Administration has followed tims no idea why these events hap- there has been more profiling of suit with a string of policies pened, what was taken, and what Arab Americans since September designed to screen and keep closer

20 tabs on those entering the country. persons approached by the FBI for been alarmed at the government's Among the more troubling questioning in the fall of 2001 were conflated message to the public changes to immigration policy is Arab and Muslim students in that places all immigrants, especial- that visitors from certain countries American universities. Some stu- ly those from the Middle East, or those designated "threats" for dents, particularly those from Gulf under suspicion in the anti-terror- other reasons must register at the countries, were so intimidated in ism campaign. point of entry, thirty days after the weeks following the attacks that entry, and at one-year intervals they returned home in the middle of thereafter. As of September 11, the school year. It is expected that 2002, the government will begin to the strong preference by Arab elites Dangerous Directions at take fingerprints, photographs, and for American higher education, a the Department of Justice other information from selected trend that has persisted since the nationals upon arrival in the U.S. 1960s, will be diminished by the cur- The Attorney General's decision to These policies have a particular rent barriers and climate. lift guidelines on FBI operations, impact on those from Arab and One of the procedures imposed by placed by Congress in the 1970s to Muslim countries. the Attorney General is a new stu- curb widespread abuses by agents in Commenting on the potential dent reporting system, SEVIS, the Hoover era, has been criticized repercussions of this regulation, which will require schools to report by politicians and civil libertarians Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA) on foreign students such data as alike. Safeguards against the infiltra- said, “This is a troubling and poorly enrollment, start date of next term, tion and harassment that character- thought-out regulation. It was pro- failure to enroll, disciplinary action ized surveillance practices during posed without any consultation with by the school, and early graduation. the McCarthy era and against civil Congress. It does little to provide Schools are required to notify rights leaders like Martin Luther real protection against terrorism. I authorities if a foreign student drops King, Jr. and others engaged in law- fear this proposal will open a shame- under full-time status, at which time ful political dissent are now being ful chapter in our history that we as the student is deportable. Like many removed, and activists in the a nation will come to regret.” (32) of the tracking measures proposed Muslim and Arab American com- Other measures against immi- since September 11, those tasked munities are not alone in their grants include the State with collecting the data are ques- alarm. Department's November 2001 deci- tioning its efficacy. Some college “These new guidelines say to the sion to impose new security checks administrators recall a similar track- American people that you no longer on visa applicants. Those applying ing system set up in the 1970s that have to be doing something wrong for visas from such countries as was abandoned as cumbersome and in order to get that FBI knock at Afghanistan, Bahrain, Indonesia, unproductive. your door,” said Laura Murphy, Qatar, Tunisia, and among Beyond the burden and question- director of the Washington national others received a statement saying: able value of some of the visa-related office of the ACLU. (33) The ranking “Effective immediately, the State restrictions was the highly publi- member of the House Judiciary Department has introduced a 20- cized announcement in January that Committee, John Conyers (D-MI), day waiting period for men from the INS would begin to locate the commenting on the plan to use the certain countries, ages 16-45, apply- more than 300,000 persons who new guidelines to target mosques ing for visas into the United States.” have overstayed their visas or other- and Islamic organizations, said, And in April 2002, the wise qualify for deportation under “Threatening the private practice of Immigration and Naturalization existing law, under a new program religion constitutes a war on free- Service issued a proposed regulation known as the “Absconder dom, not a war on terror. I hope it establishing a presumptive limita- Apprehension Initiative.” The INS is clear to all that taking it upon tion on visitors to the United States stated that the priority for location himself to institute new rules to of 30 days, or a “fair and reasonable would be persons from “Al-Qaeda wiretap religious organizations, period” to accomplish the purpose harboring countries” - estimated at including places of worship, the of the visit. about six thousand people - whose Attorney General will do little to Of all visa holders impacted by names would be entered first into help us battle terrorism. Instead it post-September 11 regulations, for- the National Crime Information will simply further alienate the eign students are on the front lines. Center database. American Muslim community, a As mentioned, the lion's share of Immigrant rights supporters have crucial ally in our efforts.” (34)

21 Immigrants from the Arab and Muslim worlds are “the weakest link in the civil rights chain,” and that places them squarely on the front line in the defense of civil liberties.

Another initiative of the Attorney their rights, community leaders are how to minimize the intimidating General is the Terrorism Infor- in regular contact with federal agen- aspects of the government's infor- mation and Prevention System cies, law enforcement, and civil mation gathering. (TIPS) program, that would ask rights commissions to keep open While the concerns raised in this Americans with access to private channels for dialogue and feedback. chapter illustrate how Arab and property, such as mail carriers and They are also informing their com- Muslim Americans have been utility workers, to become informers munity members of expanding deeply affected by government on “unusual events.” As envisioned, opportunities for participation, as scrutiny since September 11, these it would have opened up the door linguists and analysts, in the unfold- matters threaten to fundamentally to “prying, racial profiling and sub- ing investigation. change the civil rights and freedoms tle violations of the Fourth Whereas early deliberations with of all Americans. Amendment.” (35) TIPS has been officials were dominated by issues of Recent immigrants to the United scaled back to involve truckers, dock hate crimes and discrimination, the States from the Middle East have workers, bus drivers, and others focus has since shifted primarily to been especially vulnerable to securi- who are in positions to monitor the treatment of people of Arab ty policies enacted by the federal places and events that are obviously descent by the government itself. government in the wake of the ter- public. One response to community con- ror attacks. In an even more blatant appeal cerns has been the Department of Newly arrived immigrants from to citizen vigilance, the FBI issued Justice's decision to streamline com- the Arab and Muslim worlds are, in an advisory this spring that warned plaints of civil rights violations by the words of AAI President James property owners, public housing government entities via a hotline Zogby, “the weakest link in the civil officials and landlords to watch out administered by the US rights chain,” and that places them for terrorists renting apartments. Commission on Civil Rights. squarely on the front line in the This warning has Arab Americans Arab American and American defense of civil liberties and free- understandably worried about dis- Muslim groups worked with the doms that have defined the United crimination. In the words of Aslam Department of Justice to set up States for centuries. How the nation Abdallah with the Islamic Center of monthly meetings hosted by Ralph responds to this continuing struggle Southern California, “I fear these Boyd, Assistant Attorney General between security and constitutional terrorist warnings will only make for Civil Rights. The meetings rights will be a lasting legacy of matters worse, mostly for Middle sought to create a partnership September 11. Eastern people because of their between the major Arab and As Anthony Lake, former appearance. The community is real- Muslim organizations in the United National Security Adviser to ly scared. Today it’s apartments, States and the federal government President Bill Clinton, observed, “If tomorrow it's the neighborhood offices involved in the investigative we are fighting for freedom - and we where people won't sell their houses aspects of the war on terror, prima- are - then we need to respect the to us.” (36) rily the Department of Justice and freedom of all Americans to believe the FBI. Both agencies solicited and live as they wish. As we are Committed to Dialogue community feedback on violation fighting for our civilized values, we and Advocacy of rights that might occur in inter- need to be civil to all of our citizens. views and investigation practices. In If we are fighting against those who In spite of grave civil liberties con- several cases, local field offices of live and act on their hatred, and we cerns and diminishing confidence the FBI met regularly with commu- become like them - then we are los- of Arab Americans in the govern- nity representatives who provided ing the war.” (37) ‹ ment's commitment to protecting advice on cultural sensitivities and

22 ne year later, the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 are still at the fore- front of the nation’s mind as we continue to O overcome grief, remember those who were lost, and fight to ensure the safety and well-being of the nation. “Healing the Nation” is one small part of the his- tory of this past year - a year that has been among the most difficult many Americans have experi- enced. This title was chosen because, from those first terrible moments of this tragedy, Americans stepped forward to help each other in any way they could. September 11 will forever be remembered not just as a tragedy, but as an example of how the country can pull together in a time of crisis. Arab Americans not only joined in the rescue efforts, but have been able to start to heal some of the deeper wounds that became apparent in the days and weeks following the attacks. They have joined fellow Americans in developing bonds of edu- cation and understanding, combating stereotypes, and taking messages of cooperation into class- rooms, community centers, and places of worship. And just as the response of the Arab American com- munity was immediate and strong, the response of Americans of all backgrounds toward the communi- ty was, overwhelmingly, one of support. One year later, as the nation continues its heal- ing, we look back at the experiences of the Arab American community not just to honor their contri- butions to the recovery efforts and remember those who were lost, but also as a reminder that the strength of the United States lies in our ability, be it in personal interactions or government policy, to fight hatred and suspicion with understanding and inclusion. As the country continues to deal with the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, we must ensure that we fight for both the safety of the coun- try as well as to protect the civil and constitutional rights of all Americans.

23 Notes

(1) MSNBC, September 15, 2001 (20) ibid

(2) "Loyalty at La Shish: Owner of the Popular (21) ibid Restaurant Chain Expresses Concern for Terrorism's Victims and Love for His Adopted Homeland,"by Sylvia (22) "Support Buoys City's Displaced Muslims," by Dave Rector, Detroit Free Press, October 10, 2001 Ghose, The Arab-American News, January 19-26, 2002

(3) ABANA press release, March 6, 2002 (23) "For Muslims, Benevolence Is Prevailing Over Backlash," by Caryle Murphy, , (4) ibid October 6, 2001

(5) American Muslim Council press release, September (24) "America the Sensible: The Country is More Rock- 12, 2001 Ribbed than Outsiders Think," the Economist, October 27, 2001 (6) mass e-mail from Ray Hanania (25) "Up in Arms Against Bigotry: Arab-American Marine (7) "Hail to The Flag," Arab American Business online, Forms Group to Send Patriotic Message,” by Jeannette October 12, 2001 Steele, San Diego Union-Tribune, July 4, 2002

(8) "Arab-Americans Use Language Skills in Terrorism (26) http://www.aclu.org/congress/l101201b.html War,” by Judy Peet, The Star-Ledger online, September 18, 2001 (27) See http://thomas.loc.gov/

(9) "Arabic Speakers Answer FBI Call for Translators," (28) See http://thomas.loc.gov/ Richard Willing, USA Today online, April 24, 2002 (29) Much of the information in this section comes from (10) Department of Justice press release, Sept. 13, 2001 the American Immigration Lawyers Association; see www.aila.org (11) U.S. Department of Education News, Sept. 19, 2001 (30) "Madison Cops Won't Screen Muslims," by Steven (12) "Arab Heritage Month Salutes Community's Elbow, The Capital Times (Madison, WI), December 12, Achievements," Arab News 2001

(13) The Human Rights Commission of the City and (31) "Asian Pacific Americans Display Support for Arab, County of San Francisco, CA, press release, September Sikh Americans: Praise Bush, Others for Denouncing 13, 2001 Profiling, Hate Crimes," by Rita M. Gerona-Adkins, Asian Fortune, October 2001 (14) "Redford to Host Diversity Workshop," by Delores Patterson, The Detroit News, October 5, 2001 (32) “100,000 Foreign Visitors to Face Fingerprinting,” by Wayne Washington and Robert Schlesinger, the Boston (15) Report entitled "Positive Community Response to Globe, June 6, 2002 Bias Incidents Directed Toward The Middle Eastern and Muslim Community Since September 11" (33) “In Terror Fight, FBI Eases Domestic Spying Rules,” by Don Van Natta Jr., the International Herald Tribune, (16) "Peace: In Reaction to 9/11 People Are Reaching May 31, 2002 Out to Diverse Groups," by Scott Martelle, The Times, April 21, 2002 (34) See www.cair-net.org

(17) Arab American Institute press release, "AmeriDream (35) “Just the Facts, Mr. Ashcroft," by Jean AbiNader and Fights Hate with Arab American Rebuilding Effort," Kate Martin, The Washington Post, July 25 February 21, 2002 (36) “Arab Americans Wary of Warnings,” the Detroit (18) "Ephrata Rallies to Egyptians' Restaurant Hurt by News, May 28, 2002 Rumors," by Timothy D. May, the Associated Press, October 20, 2001 (37) "Bigotry's High Price," by Anthony Lake, USA Today, September 19, 2001 (19) "For Muslims, Benevolence Is Prevailing Over Backlash," by Caryle Murphy, The Washington Post, October 6, 2001

24 A. Submission to The United States Commission on Civil APPENDICES: Rights, Testimony of Dr. James J. Zogby, October 12, 2001 (excerpt) With an Appendix of Selected Hate-Based Incidents Sept. 11 Resources on to Oct. 10, 2001, October 12, 2001 Arab Americans and the B. Arab American Perspectives on the International War Against Terrorism (excerpt) September 11 Remarks to the Secretary's Open Forum by Dr. James J. Zogby, December 5, 2001. United States Department of Aftermath State

C. Commissioners Meeting Open Session, "Employment Discrimination in the Aftermath of September 11” Remarks by AAI Managing Director Jean AbiNader, December 11, 2001. U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

D. Arab American Institute Materials: I. Select AAI Press Releases

II. AAI Publications and Reports

III. AAI Educational Packet In light of the high demand for information after Sept. 11, AAI put together a resource packet on Arab Americans, Islam, and the Middle East. The packet is available in electronic format on the AAI website at www.aaiusa.org/educational_packet.htm, where there is also an order form to request print copies.

E. Other Resources Links to information from the US Department of Justice, Department of Transportation, EEOC, and other sources

25 A. Submission to The United States Commission on Civil Rights, Testimony of James J. Zogby, October 12, 2001 (excerpt) (With an Appendix of Selected Hate-Based Incidents September 11 - October 10, 2001)

First, there have been assaults. Among them, Full transcript of this testimony, as well as the hate there have been seven deaths which may be the crimes appendix, is available on the Arab American result of hate crimes. We also list about 90 other Institute website at www.aaiusa.org/publications.htm physical assaults, either shooting, beatings, or stab- bings that have been reported. Next we list over 85 incidents of vandalism to property. Special targets for vandalism include mosques and Arab-owned busi- In the immediate aftermath of the terrorist attacks on nesses that have Arab signage out front. Threats and the World Trade Center and the Pentagon (even before harassment are next. These include death threats or it became clear that the perpetrators were from Arab personal threats. Although we list a large number of countries), Arab Americans found themselves the targets these types of incidents, I believe that the numbers of incidents of hate and bias. It was something that we must be much higher. While direct assaults and acts had come to expect. of vandalism are reported to law enforcement, most For a number of decades now, Arab Americans have victim communities hesitate to report threats. They experienced similar "backlashes". all too frequently accept this form of hate crime as During the Iranian hostage crisis, for example, despite expected behavior and are afraid to create more the fact that Iranians are not Arabs, Arab Americans problems by reporting the offense and offenders. were targeted. The same was true in the days following We also have had a few job-related acts of dis- the terrorist bombing in Oklahoma City and the tragic crimination, though not as many as I might have explosion of TWA flight 800. feared. So far, six cases have been reported to us Part of the reason why Arab Americans have come to where people have been fired and been told the spe- be scapegoated in times of crisis is because for many cific reason for their dismissal was that their fellow decades, my community has been defined by negative employees didn't want "an Arab in the workplace." stereotypes propagated by the popular culture. Arab This is an area of concern that bears watching, since Americans are not known as the complex and diverse there are signs that it may grow in the future. community that we are. Another area of discrimination that is very trou- Compounding this is the fact that, in recent years, bling is the matter of airplane profiling. We've had 11 these destructive stereotypes have been fed by the out- specific instances reported to us involving over 20 rageous and condemnable acts of terror committed passengers where people have either been taken off against the United States by some extremist groups with a plane or not allowed to board a plane because of roots in Arab countries. their ethnicity. Since there is no provision, in law, for The result of this confluence of preexisting negative a cooperating passenger who has passed security stereotypes with actual terrorist acts has created, with screening to be removed from a flight because "the each of these crises, a dangerous situation where, in the pilot won't fly with someone named Mohammed", or minds of some, blame was generalized and collective "because other passengers are nervous to fly with guilt was assigned to the entire Arab American commu- you on board" (these were actual reasons given), we nity. feel that there is a very dangerous form of vigilantism In just three days after the Oklahoma City bombing, at work here. It must be stopped. We have raised for example, more than 200 serious hate crimes where this matter with the Secretary of Transportation and committed against Arab Americans and American have pressed the Department of Transportation to Muslims. The same was true in the days following issue a clear policy statement to the airlines. September 11. The key to understanding the gravity of this entire I have attached to this statement a selection of such situation for Arab Americans is that no segment of instances of hate crimes and acts of bias that were my community has been exempt. reported to my organization and the American-Arab Anti- An Arab American Congressman was excluded Discrimination Committee (ADC) during the period of from a flight. Arab American churches as well as September 11 to October 10, 2001. The list is not com- mosques were attacked. And, in many instances, plete, but represents a state-by-state selection, organ- bigots struck out at anyone whom they suspected ized by type. was Arab, victimizing Sikhs, South Asians and Let me review, for a moment, the types of cases we Hispanics. are reporting. My own family, for example, has been dramatical-

26 ly impacted. The morning after September 11, I Rights Division and the Assistant Attorney General received a harrowing death threat at my office. The for Civil Rights, Ralph Boyd. He has brought us caller left this message: "Jim, you towelhead, all together, early on and frequently, to discuss both the Arabs must die. We will slit your throats and kill your problem of backlash and our concern with various children." My daughter, a college student, received law enforcement agencies. Mr. Boyd has also made two threatening phone calls. My nephew, also a col- himself available to us in several important outreach lege student, was affected. My brother, John, efforts to the Arab American community. received two bomb threats at his office. Finally, I want to mention the support we received The problem was widespread. A poll of Arab from the FBI. From the Director on down, the FBI Americans we conducted from October 6 to October has responded to each and every complaint of hate 8, 2001, showed that while 32% of Arab Americans we have brought to them. They have met with our reported having been subjected to some form of eth- community's leadership in Washington and in sever- nic-based discrimination during their lifetimes, 20% al centers across the US. reported having experienced an instance of ethnic- While we still have some concerns with some based discrimination since September 11. Most reports we have received of overzealous investiga- affected were the vulnerable parts of my community. tive techniques used by some FBI agents, we have Of special concern, for example, is the fact that 45% had the opportunity to raise each of these concerns of students and 37% of Arab Americans of the with officials from the Bureau. Muslim faith report being targeted by discrimination At the same time, we are gratified that the FBI has since September 11. aggressively pursued our reports of hate crimes. At Let me note here that however serious this peri- the time of this testimony, they have opened 130 od has been, I dread to think how much worse it investigations and actually brought 3 federal indict- might have been had our nation's leadership not ments against perpetrators. I understand that they acted as quickly and proactively as they did. have already identified the individual who made the The President took the lead in cautioning against death threat against my family. this backlash and was joined by the Secretary of I would like to close with a few recommendations. State, the Attorney General, and the Director of the The first deals with the problem of reporting hate FBI. Their repeated statements, I believe, helped to crimes. Immigrants, especially those from some Arab stem the wave of backlash. countries, have a fear of law enforcement. For exam- Also worthy of note were the actions of the U.S. ple, if the FBI is investigating hate crimes, recent Senate and House of Representatives who passed immigrant Arabs may fear reporting a hate incident resolutions decrying hate crimes against Arab because they are concerned that it may compromise Americans and American Muslims. Individual their stay in the US. This fear is compounded by the Senators and Representatives also took immediate fact that the past history of the FBI's relationship with action to shine a light on this problem. our community has not always been the kind that Equally impressive was the effort by the Ad encourages people to go to them and report a prob- Council which worked with us to produce public serv- lem. I therefore believe that there is a need for not ice radio and newspaper ads that focused on warn- just an improved system for hate crime reporting but ing against anti-Arab and anti-Muslim hate and bias. also for a mediating presence between victim com- The constant repetition of this positive message munities and law enforcement so that victims can on TV and radio and in print media has helped have more confidence in reporting problems. restrain the hands of the bigots. The hate has not Since this Civil Rights Commission is receiving gone away, but the hate crimes have been greatly reports of hate crimes, I recommend that you seek a reduced. Now we must begin the long and difficult role in suggesting how those hate crimes actually task of addressing the negative stereotypes. And in then become investigated. I have noted that while this area we have also been blessed by the support the FBI Director and the community relations side of of several national organizations and parts of the the FBI have been very responsive, there still is a Administration. The Community Relations Service of fear. And many people remain afraid to report hate the Department of Justice has assisted us in reach- crimes. ing school districts that have asked for materials on There have been recommendations that the U.S. Arab Americans, Arab culture, and Islam. The Attorney's offices be involved, or that the Civil Rights Department of Education and school boards across Division at the Justice Department be involved, or the U.S. have also been helpful, as have the nation's that the FBI set up a special Hate Crimes Unit that is unions representing America's teachers. only involved in hate crime investigations. These are While noting the role of the Department of Justice, only some suggestions, but I do urge you to look into I must single out, for special commendation, the Civil this matter and help us address this concern.

27 B. “Arab American Perspectives on the International War Against Terrorism” (excerpt) Remarks to the Secretary's Open Forum by James J. Zogby, December 5, 2001. United States Department of State

The first time I addressed the Open Forum was in ordered to evacuate. Because our office is a block 1978. I was a wee lad who was very concerned with away from the White House, they closed our building how my message would be read, whether it would down. I said we couldn't leave because we were come through. It's funny, many years later, and after receiving phone calls from people around the coun- many years of this work, I'm just as concerned as I try and I didn't want to leave. Then the first death was the first time I spoke here. I appreciate this threat came and was followed by others. By the next forum; it's an opportunity that I certainly know is a morning they had reached a rather frightening pitch. useful and important one. I hope to communicate to Actually it had become quite gruesome and frighten- you as best I can the Arab American perspective on ing. Even before the perpetrators of the terror attacks the international war on terror. were identified as Arabs, we were pulled away from I'll begin with a personal note. September 11 and the collective mourning. This was very similar to it's immediate aftermath produced complex emotions what happened to us after Oklahoma City. In effect, in me and I know in many in my community. First of we were told that we couldn't suffer with the rest of all was the horror and the shock. There was some- America because there was an assumption of collec- thing quite unique about what happened on tive guilt. September 11, possibly because of the magnitude, This backlash intensified as it became clear that possibly that we saw it in real time, possibly that it it was in fact Arabs who perpetrated these acts. But happened in New York, as opposed to another then as the expected hate came, something quite American city. We don't know what it was exactly, surprising and extraordinarily gratifying also but unlike other tragedies, both domestic and inter- occurred and that was statements of compassion national, that we have seen and followed, this was and concern. I used the word gratuitous at one point really quite different because we didn't merely watch to describe these statements of support. I used it in it, we lived it. We didn't just suffer for the victims, we a theological sense, as an act of grace, an unearned suffered with the victims. It became our tragedy, it benefit. So it was surprising and quite stunning affected us all. There was not only horror and shock, when [Senator Edward] Teddy Kennedy called me as planes that we were so used to seeing in the sky within 36 hours of the attack to ask what can he do all of a sudden became weapons of mass destruc- to help. And then [Senator Joseph] Joe Leiberman tion. And the consequences of it, of the attack, left called, then [former Congressman] Jack Kemp none of us untouched. called and became quite emotional over the phone It affected us in very different ways, but we were and told me if my wife and I needed protection that all affected. There was grief, of course. Grief, as we we could stay with his family. Then Senator Feingold watched, in the days after the attack, family mem- and Senator Edwards and others called... By 48 bers holding pictures of loved ones whom we knew hours after the terrorists attacks more than a dozen in our heart of hearts they would never find. We members of the U.S. Senate had called. Governor were touched by that, and some of us even felt guilty Jeb Bush of Florida also called and the President because we had not lost anyone. My daughter, I'll issued a very strong message followed by Attorney never forget, cried one night because she was get- General Ashcroft and the director of the FBI. ting married in two weeks and felt a tremendous Extraordinary as they were, those statements of pro- sense of guilt because she was feeling joy at a time tection, those statements of concern, were, in fact, when she was also really feeling enormous sadness very American. and had just heard a young woman talking about los- I said to myself at one point, only in America does ing her fiancé. Universes were lost and destroyed that kind of immediate and almost spontaneous pro- and would never be the same, not only those who tection and support come at that kind of time. It actu- lost families would never be the same but in a very ally reminded me of the story that one hears in grade real sense, none of us will. I still can't look up, see a school of the barn that blows down and the neigh- plane, and think of it in quite the same way as I did bors come over with potluck dishes. My office had before September 11. police protection because of the death threats we But for Arab Americans, while all of this was true, received, neighbors in the building started making us something quite different also happened and hap- lunches. A woman came by the very first day after pened within hours. I was in my office and we were the attacks with brownies and said, "I think I burnt

28 them but I hope they are okay." I was very touched There are differences based on generation. Eighty and continued to be touched although I did gain percent of Arab Americans are born here but even some weight because Ben & Jerry's gave us a party within the generation born here there are still differ- and Mrs. Fields brought over a box of cookies. As I ences, particularly between the children of very said it was gratuitous. recent immigrants and the children of those who Then after the unexpected kindness and gracious- arrived from the 1920's. There's a difference based ness came the anger, our anger. We had been on religion. There are Arab Americans who are brought back into the fold, we were embraced by the Christians and Arab Americans who are Muslim and President on down, told to come mourn with the rest different Christian denominations and Muslim vari- of the country and it sunk in. It sunk in just as it eties. became clear to us that the perpetrators were Arab. In polling, we say that if the answer to a question We shared not only the national outrage but felt is in the range of 70%, we consider that a consen- anger in a very special way because they had come sus, because if the numbers are that high then all the from Arab countries and taken advantage of the subgroups will also be in a majority. So what we see opportunities and the openness of America, taken in the polling is that that a clear consensus exists on advantage of the American people, and murdered many issues. There are some issues on which con- our fellow Americans. In the process they created sensus doesn't exist. For example, on the question such enormous pain, such enormous loss, and cre- of Iraq, there is no consensus among Arab ated fear of Arab Americans. For that I will never for- Americans on what our policy should be. There's a give them. My daughter called me one day to tell me split. On the question of Palestinian statehood, there that I was quoted in Newsweek referring to them as is no split; the numbers are well over 90% support- 'those bastards who did this.' She said does that ing a state. It may be surprising to some but support mean that we can say "bastard" now? I said in cer- for recognition of the right of Israel to exist is also tain special instances you can, this is one of them. over 90%. There is a consensus, in other words, on By the time the President launched the war, the many key policy issues that shows the emergence of attack against al-Qaida we were in the field polling this community. Despite differences internally within Arab Americans to find and get an accurate measure the generations or the countries of origin or religion of their attitudes. When I give you the results you will or political outlook, there are many things on which see that my personal stories are not just anecdotal we agree. Just one day after the war was launched, but actually are a measure of the way the communi- we asked Arab Americans the question, "do you sup- ty felt. But before I give you those results, let me port an all out war against countries that harbor the give you a bit about the Arab American community, terrorists who attacked America," and 69% agreed. its demographics, which I think are important. It is an Now, to understand that number, on the same emerging community; it is of recent vintage. Arab day, the national poll asking the very same question Americans have been here for a hundred years but of the country as a whole showed 67% agreed. So have only recently, within the last three decades, the fact is that Arab Americans were slightly more begun to organize on a national level. It is a very supportive than the country as a whole. When asked diverse community. Our members have roots in the question did we support the President's handling more than twenty countries. We are diverse not only of the war on terror, we got 88% support, 11% based on country of origin, the first waves were opposed -- again, identical to the country as a whole. Lebanese and Syrian but have been followed in the When we asked if Arab American's were reassured last fifty years by large groups of Palestinians, by the President's support for Arab Americans and Egyptians, Iraqis, Lebanese, and now Gulf Arabs, Muslim Americans, 90% said yes. North Africans and Jordanians, etc. The fact is that When we asked the question, had they experi- you can't go to a restaurant here in town without find- enced personally discrimination since the 11 of ing among the wait staff or valets very recent immi- September (this was again done on the 10th of grants. The service trades are stepping-stones for October just one month later), 20% said they had, many immigrants. We're continually being refreshed 45% said they knew someone who'd experienced and revitalized by new immigrants who work their discrimination based on ethnicity since September way very quickly into the economic mainstream of 11. Of the 20% who experienced discrimination, 49% the country and have become involved in the activi- were between 18 and 29 and 37% of the Arab ties of the community. Americans were of Muslim faith. When we asked if There is also diversity in political outlook. We they were proud of their Arab heritage, 88% said that have Democrats and Republicans, we have Social they were. That number is identical to the number Conservatives and we have Social Liberals. We that existed before September 11. have the very assimilated and the not so assimilated.

29 C. Commissioners Meeting Open Session, "Employment Discrimination in the Aftermath of September 11” Remarks by AAI Managing Director Jean AbiNader, December 11, 2001. U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

The Arab American Institute represents the political largely disappeared, although we note that there is and civic aspirations of our community by promoting an upsurge in complaints immediately following each its full involvement in the electoral life of our country of the warnings issued by the Federal Government at all levels. AAI is also a key voice in the communi- over the past five weeks. ty for promoting domestic and international policies Yet by and large, those who were born in this that we believe best serve America's interests at country have encountered fewer obstacles than home and in our relationships abroad, particularly those who are immigrants, some of whom have been with the Arab world. in this country for more than 30 years. We are pleased to have the opportunity to pres- The situation is also more difficult for Arab ent our perspectives on how the tragic events of Americans who are immigrants or are Muslims and September 11th have impacted the Arab American publicly affirm their faith through adherence to guide- community. You will hear many cases from our col- lines regarding dress, daily prayers, fasting, and sim- leagues that illustrate the kinds of challenges that we ilar responsibilities that impact the work environment. have encountered. Overall, we must state that the Just as the Commission has been instrumental in impact on the community has fallen most heavily protecting the rights of Americans of the Jewish reli- upon those with the least experience and awareness gion to dress, dietary restrictions, and observances needed to defend themselves. of holy days, it is now time to act aggressively to One of the most interesting phenomena that I obtain these same protections for Muslims. have experienced since the events of September It is ironic that Muslims are being singled out by 11th is the largely ignorant level of knowledge about their co-workers for practicing their religion faithfully, Arab Americans in this country. reminding me how it was when I first worked in an So I'd like to just briefly point out two things. One is office and was kidded for having ashes on my fore- that I've brought some materials that we've placed head on Ash Wednesday. outside that talk about who the Arab American com- If we could remember our own encounters with munity is, our experience in this country since the work discrimination, perhaps it might make us pause immigration started in the 1880s in large numbers, before we reach out to strike verbally at a fellow and who we are today in terms of some of the per- employee because we feel a need to personally rem- sonalities that many of you will recognize. edy the horrors of September 11th. Some of the factors about the community that are The larger question, however, is dealing with the interesting is that when you look at the stereotype of discrimination, bias, bigotry, and disrespect that have who Arab Americans are, the first two things you become more visible since September 11th. I say hear from people are that we're Muslims, we're immi- more visible because we must be honest and admit grants, and we're largely from Palestine or . that there is the latent anti-Arab and anti-Muslim sen- The reality is over 65 percent of us are Christians. timent in the United States that is reflected in the We're mostly from and Syria. And most of labels that co-workers use when they taunt Arab us are second and third generation Americans Americans and American Muslims. whose parents and grandparents and great-grand- Ranging from the innocuous "sandscratcher" and parents came to this country. "raghead" to "terrorist," "freak," and "Christian-hater," So it's extraordinary that people say to us, "Well, this brand of anti-semitism is no more acceptable then, why do you bother? Why are you bothering than its older sibling. We are Americans. And when it with these immigrants? Why are you bothering with is acceptable for these jeers to dominate the work- Muslims?" in terms of their issues, in terms of the place environment, then we are marginalized as workplace. Because they're part of who we are. members of this society. They're part of the culture that we come from, and Cases you will hear about today, whether the they're part of the legacy that we bring to this coun- source is Arab American, American Muslim, Sikh try and contribute to the diversity of this country. American, or anyone else, are all concerned with Second and third generation Arab Americans eliminating the sense of intimidation and fear that is have not noticed significant changes in their work routinely felt whenever events in the Middle East or environments. The taunts, jeers, inappropriate politi- elsewhere raise the ire of the American public. cal and racial slurs, that some encountered have Although government leaders, specifically the

30 President and Secretary and the Attorney General, achieve a better understanding of ourselves and that have cautioned against backlash. Conditions in the which makes the United States so singular. workplace where people are in daily contact with one We encourage the Commission to reaffirm its long- another require a more forceful and long-term solu- standing policies against discrimination and bias, tion. particularly toward Arab Americans, American Respect for diversity must move beyond platitudes Muslims, and others affected in the aftermath of and formulas to a spirit of tolerance and understand- September 11th. ing that recognizes that we are all from somewhere By strengthening your database for collecting and else, and that is the source of America's vitality. collating complaints nationally, the Commission can Arab Americans are ready to be part of the solu- help identify trends locally that should be dealt with tion. Through educational materials available on our forcefully. More extensive coordination with state and websites, participation in panels and seminars, multi- local commissions can help create outreach opportu- ethnic and interfaith programs, volunteerism, meet- nities for training and information dissemination ings, and discussion groups, we have reached out in while gathering incidents of best practices that can the workplace after workplace to raise the level of be offered throughout the country. discourse beyond stereotypes and rancor. While there is no short-term remedy to workplace The shop floor, trading floor, restaurant, Wal-mart, discrimination toward Arab Americans and American manufacturing plant, and service industries are Muslims, this hearing is an important indicator that aware the struggle is taking place, and we need Chair Dominguez is committed to ensuring that the allies in management, labor, on state commissions, Commission continues its vital role in defense of and the federal level to ensure that we will, as a soci- equal employment. ety, rise beyond the prejudice of the moment to

D. Arab American Institute Materials:

I. Select AAI Press Releases AAI Issues Statement in Support of Administration's Focused Anti-Terrorism Campaign. October 8, 2001 available at www.aaiusa.org/pr/press_releases.htm James Zogby Testifies Before the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. October 12, 2001 Arab American Statement on Terror Attacks. September 11, 2001 Support Grows for Civil Rights: AAI Addresses State Dept., EEOC, Rainbow-Push and State Legislators. Joint Arab-American, Muslim American Statement. December 11, 2001 September 12, 2001 AmeriDream Fights Hate with Arab American Justice Department Joins with Arab Americans to Rebuilding Effort. February 21, 2002 Combat Hate Crimes. September 13, 2001 Sikh and Arab American Communities Fight Bias Arab Americans Support President Bush's and Celebrate American Diversity. May 21, 2002 Approach. September 25, 2001

Arab American and American Muslim Leaders Meet with President Bush. September 26, 2001

Media Campaign Encourages Tolerance in Response to American Tragedy: "Hate is Our Enemy." October 1, 2001

31 II. AAI Publications and Reports available on the AAI website at www.aaiusa.org/publications.htm

“Profiling and Pride: Arab American Attitudes “Arab American Attitudes and the September 11 and Behavior Since September 11.” Attacks,” by Dr. James J. Zogby, President, A report based on a May 2002 poll commissioned Arab American Institute; October 15, 2001 by the Arab American Institute Foundation. The sur- A survey conducted one month following the ter- vey found that Arab Americans are concerned rorist attacks, examining how Arab Americans per- about ethnic profiling and the long-term effects of ceive Pres. Bush’s actions following the Sept. 11 discrimination, but that the aftermath of Sept. 11 did attacks, their attitudes toward law enforcement poli- not affect their sense of ethnic pride. cies following the attacks, and their concerns about personal discrimination and backlash.

III. AAI Educational Packet

In light of the high demand for information after Marvin Wingfield and Bushra Karaman, from Sept. 11, AAI put together a resource packet on Social Studies for the Young Learner (Mar/Apr 1995), Arab Americans, Islam, and the Middle East. The courtesy of the American-Arab Anti- packet is available in electronic format at Discrimination Committee (4pp) www.aaiusa.org/educational_packet.htm, where there is also an order form to request print copies. “Teaching About Islam and Muslims in the Public School Classroom” by the Council on Islamic Contents: Education (1995) (10pp)

American Leaders Speak Out Against Backlash in “Discover Islam” color brochure Wake of September 11 Tragedy (Excerpts of speeches by President Bush, mem- AMIDEAST 2001 Educational Resources information bers of Congress, and national organizations) (4pg) card

Arab Americans: Making a Difference AWAIR 2002 Catalog, from Arab World and Islamic by Casey Kasem (12 pg brochure) Resources and School Services

Quick Facts About Arab Americans and Arab “Who are the Arabs?” Center for Contemporary Arab American Population Highlights (2pp) Studies Teaching Module No. 5, 1995 (12 pg booklet)

Demographic Chart on Country of Origin and "Arab Contributions to Civilization" from The Arab Religious Affiliation (1p) World Studies Notebook, reprinted by permission of Audrey Shabbas, ed. Who Are Arab Americans? (from Groliers Multimedia Encyclopedia)(4pp) Cobblestone children's magazine, May 2002, "Arab Americans" Arab Americans: A Century of Political and Cultural Achievement (4pp)

Notes on Anti-Arab Racism (2pp)

Select Bibliography on Arab Americans (2pp)

Select Websites on Arab Americans, the Middle East and Islam (1p)

"Are Arab Americans: People Like Us?" Foreign Service Journal (May 2000) by James J. Zogby "Arab Americans Attitudes and the September 11 Attacks," by James J. Zogby

"Arab Stereotypes and American Educators," by

32 E. Other Resources

Links to the following US government agency resources are also available on the AAI website at http://www.aaiusa.org/aftermath.htm, in the section titled “Information about Discrimination and Tolerance.”

“Federal Laws Prohibiting Job Discrimination: information about the rights of INS detainees: Questions And Answers” http://www.ins.gov/graphics/lawsregs/guidance.htm. http://www.eeoc.gov/facts/qanda.html The Pro Bono (For Free) Program in the Executive Office of Immigration Review (EOIR) From The United States Department of Justice, works to link volunteer legal representatives with Civil Rights Division: INS detainees who lack legal representation: -How to File a Complaint http://www.usdoj.gov/eoir/probono/probono.htm. -Statements of Federal Agencies -Your Rights and What You Can Do to Prevent or Brochure on federal protections against nation- Respond to Discrimination al origin discrimination: -Other Post-9/11 Information, http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/legalinfo/natlorg-eng.htm http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/nordwg.html Information about the U.S. Department of Advice to Travelers of Middle Eastern Descent, Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control, From the United States Department of which administers and enforces terrorism sanc- Transportation. November 19, 2001 tions: http://www.treas.gov/ofac.

The Immigration and Naturalization Service's Detention Operations Manual, which contains

Links of Interest selections from a list which is available on the AAI website at http://www.aaiusa.org/links.htm

Arab Americans The Middle East 100 Questions and Answers About Arab Americans: Planet Arabia - Arab directory of news, entertain- Journalist's guide from the Detroit Free Press. ment and women of Arabia, in the Middle East and Contains background on Arab American culture, lan- Arabic world. guage, and religion. http://www.planetarabia.com/ http://www.freep.com/jobspage/arabs.htm Arab Culture & Identity: Articles and links relating to American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee: Civil Arab culture and the Arab people. Covers history, rights organization committed to defending the language, art, music and literature. rights of people of Arab descent and promoting their http://www.suite101.com rich cultural heritage. http://www.adc.org/ Arabji: Pan-Arab Internet guide covering 22 Arab countries. Arabic portal, search engine and directo- Arab American Business Journal: A magazine for ry, searchable in Arabic and English. Arab American businesses. http://www.arabji.com/ http://www.arabamericanbusiness.com/ Center for Contemporary Arab Studies - Devoted to Arab Community Center for Economic and Social the study of the modern Arab world. Services (ACCESS): Includes cultural arts, employ- http://www.arabji.com/ ment and training, public health, and education. http://www.accesscommunity.org Middle East Policy Council: Non-profit organization whose purpose is to contribute to an understanding Cafe Arabica: Online Arab American community of current issues in U.S.-Middle East relations. center. A place for Arab Americans to discuss issues http://www.mepc.org/ of common interest and find out about resources and services available to them. Middle East Institute - Founded in 1946, the Middle Planet Arabia - Arab directory of news, entertain- East Institute's principal objective is to increase ment and women of Arabia, in the Middle East and Americans' knowledge and understanding of the Arabic world. http://www.cafearabica.com region. http://www.mideasti.org/

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