CAIR-Chicago Commends City Leaders for Defending Refugees

Today, the Chicago City Council voted to pass a resolution establishing Chicago as a “sanctuary” city. The resolution urges city departments, local businesses, and charitable businesses to work together to provide shelter and sustenance to refugee families relocating to Chicago and integrating in our communities. The resolution was in response to last week’s Paris attacks which resulted in more than half of the nation’s governors stating that they oppose letting Syrian refugees into their states. CAIR-Chicago Deputy Director Sufyan Sohel assisted Alderman Rosa’s office and facilitated a Syrian refugee family attending the City Council meeting, providing a face to the community that this resolution aims to serve. “I am a proud citizen of Chicago today. I watched my elected city leaders speak out against hate pass a resolution, however symbolic, reaffirming our values as city and nation of hope and refuge,” said Sohel. The resolution was sponsored by Ald. Carlos Ramirez-Rosa (35th Ward), Ald. Ed Burke (14th Ward), Marty Quinn (13th Ward), Harry Osterman (48th Ward) and Danny Solis (25th Ward). Many Alderman stood and spoke in support of the resolution, acknowledging the ideals upon which America was established, the melting-pot of cultures and nationalities that call America home, and the long history of refugees seeking sanctuary within America’s borders.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel applauded the City Council for its resolution, reacting to how Parisians took to the streets last night in defiance of violence. "It cannot be in this moment when those in France have the courage to commit themselves to their values that we are weakened and walk away from. I'm honored that we've done this resolution. I'm honored that here in Chicago we speak up for what's right."