CAIR-Chicago Congratulates President Obama on Nobel Peace Prize

(CHICAGO, 10/09/09) - The Chicago office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Chicago) today congratulated President Obama for being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his "efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and co-operation between peoples.”

In a statement, Civil Rights Director Christina Abraham, said: "Although we are always proud when one of our leaders is recognized for their commitment towards peace, it is important to remember that this award is being given to President Obama for the promise he displays, and not for his achievements thus far.

"We are still waiting for the President to fulfill his pledges to end the wars, broker peace in the Middle East, deliver meaningful health care reform and economic relief, and address climate change and the other challenges we face as a global community. We sincerely hope his actions in the upcoming years comport with his words."

Amina Sharif, Communications Coordinator at CAIR-Chicago, said "the award acknowledges the noticeable shift in U.S. diplomacy under the Obama administration as seen by his efforts to reach out to Muslims around the world and to increase cooperation with the international community. With this award, the Nobel Committee is encouraging Obama to continue in these efforts and meet his stated goals."

CAIR-Chicago is a chapter of America's largest Muslim civil rights group, which has 33 offices and chapters nationwide and in Canada. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.

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CONTACT: Amina Sharif, Communications Coordinator, CAIR-Chicago, 312.212.1520 or 630.935.5562; E-Mail: asharif@cair.com, and Christina Abraham, Civil Rights Director, CAIR-Chicago, 312.212.1520; E-Mail: cabraham@cair.com