CALL TO ACTION: Show Up for a Fair and Inclusive Hearing on Hate
đź“Ť Location: Chicago City Hall, Council Chambers
đź“… Date: Monday, September 9
🕙 Time: Hearing from 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
🗣️ Public Comment: 3:00–4:00 PM, Arrive by 1:45 PM to sign up
The Chicago Commission on Human Relations (CCHR) is holding a public hearing on antisemitism based on its 2025 Hate Crimes Report. https://www.chicago.gov/content/dam/city/depts/cchr/general/2025%20CCHR%20Hate%20Crimes%20Report.pdf
While some allies have pushed for more inclusive voices, the hearing was largely planned without broader community input. A coalition of interfaith organizations are urging partners to attend, show up in solidarity, and submit public statements.
Can’t attend? Email by Monday morning: the CHHR committee that oversees this commission to let them know the Muslim community is watching and expects fair representation.
Suggested Talking Points:
* The report relies only on CPD data, ignoring trusted community-based sources like CAIR. And does not include disaggregated data on Arabs and Muslims.
* It uses the ADL’s definition of antisemitism, conflating criticism of Israel with hate—threatening free speech and protest rights.
* The process excluded Latino, Palestinian, Asian, Arab, and Black communities—especially troubling amid calls for federal crackdowns in Chicago.
* There was no clear or inclusive process for choosing expert speakers.
* Hate is intersectional, Muslim, Arab, Asian, and Black communities also face rising threats.
* We need independent, community-based reporting—not just CPD sources.
* Definitions of antisemitism must protect civil liberties and not target Palestine advocates.
* Future hearings must reflect broader community voices—with time for input and feedback.