A convergence of events and natural phenomena in the world today has captured the attention of every human being – and given us all great pause. The onset of a global pandemic has forced everyone into a heightened consciousness about their own sense of mortality. With the continued spread of Covid-19, the death toll and sickness in it’s wake has exposed the disparities and injustices which make some people more vulnerable than others. Simultaneous to the world coming into a shared consciousness/reckoning with our sense of mortality due to the pandemic, the brutal murder of Mr. George Floyd has caused the entire world to come into a collective consciousness/reckoning about the extent of the injustices against African Americans.
For several years, the Muslim community in Illinois has maintained a prominent role in support of the Black Lives Matter movement through the leadership of the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago. In the wake of the brutal murder of George Floyd, the Council has re-doubled these efforts by forming the CIOGC Anti-racism Task Force. Educational awareness, advocacy and community programs are integral components of the Task Force. Also, diversity equity and inclusion are central to the mission of the Anti-racism Task Force. The CIOGC House of Representatives has ratified these initiatives as part of CIOGC‘s campaign for social justice. It is imperative for all CIOGC member organizations to be represented in these efforts to confront issues of racism – and all forms of bigotry – in the society at large and within our ranks.
CIOGC has accelerated its support in healthcare to address the inequities revealed by the COVID pandemic; and to address vaccine hesitancy. Support programs in housing, workforce development, and a food pantry have been targeted within the African American and Latino communities. The CIOGC House of Representatives has ratified these initiatives as part of CIOGC‘s campaign for social justice. It is imperative for all CIOGC member organizations to be represented in these efforts to confront issues of racism – and all forms of bigotry – in the society at large and within our ranks.