A News Brief from the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago

Assalamu Alaikum.

January 20, 2003—As in years past, the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago once again participated in city-wide events commemorating the legacy of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The following are highlights of events in which the Council officially participated.

The Chairman of the Council’s Interfaith Committee, Dr. Shakir Moiduddin, addressed dignitaries at the Unity Breakfast hosted by Chicago Mayor Richard Daley in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. Moiduddin offered a prayer of hope that this great nation will “not be a superpower just based on military might and scientific know-how, but also based on moral and ethical values.” In addition to Mayor Daley and the city’s aldermen, the Unity Breakfast was attended by many prominent leaders, including Chicago Police Department Superintendent Terry Hillard, Attorney General Lisa Madigan, and Cook County Board President John Stroger.

The Council’s Director-Community Relations, Amina Saeed, addressed a large gathering at the Chicago National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) 19th Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration. In her address, Ms. Saeed noted, “Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is a hero for all Americans alike, including Muslim-Americans, who appreciate Dr. King’s legacy of safeguarding civil and human rights in a manner that transcends race and religion, especially in the challenging times facing our nation.” Ms. Saeed encouraged action on Dr. King’s message, and referred to issues of profiling, detention, and equal opportunity. Other speakers included Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich, State Senator Barack Obama, and House Representative Constance Howard. The Chicago Southside Branch is the oldest branch in the NAACP and the largest branch in Illinois.

© 2003 CIOGC Updated: 04-Feb-2003