Access to Faith (A2F)

CAIR-Chicago's Prison Project

The ‘Access to Faith’ Prison Project is an ongoing initiative at CAIR-Chicago since 2007 that aims to give incarcerated Muslims the resources they need to freely practice their religion. Oftentimes, prisoners learn more about Islam while imprisoned and lack the tools to continue their journey of knowledge & practice, free of prejudice and discrimination. CAIR-Chicago works with inmates on issues ranging from congregational prayer accommodation, access to religious material — and access to Halal/Zabiha food, with the help of our partner IFANCA.

CAIR-Chicago is committed to continue securing the human and religious rights of inmates to practice their faith without discrimination, through our Prison Project.

The Prison Project: A Guide to Illinois Legal Services

Looking for literature resources, civil rights help, or legal referrals to navigate the Illinois prison system? Download our guide “The Prison Project: A Guide to Illinois Legal Services”.

Led by Imam Al Ameen Ross

Imam Al Ameen began his Qur'anic studies in 2002 under Shaykh Muhammad Firdausi of Pakistan, father of Mufti Harun of Chicago. Under his mentorship, he studied Fiqh, Prayer and Purification, Seerah, Tafsir, and Tajweed. In 2009, he was appointed Acting Imam by Shaykh Firdausi — a position he faithfully held until 2021. During that time, Imam Al Ameen delivered Friday khutbahs, taught classes on Akhlaq, basic Qur’anic Arabic, and the fundamentals of worship, while serving as a religious and community leader to those of different ages, ethnic backgrounds and schools of thought.
Imam Al Ameen’s unique journey unfolded within the walls of a prison — an environment marked by hardship and limitation, yet transformed by the light of Islam. Through Allah’s mercy, Imam Al Ameen helped build an Islamic community from the ground up in that setting. He organized structured classes, led daily prayers, and established a thriving da‘wah system that led to hundreds of young men embracing Islam. In those years, Imam Al Ameen witnessed how sincerity, patience, and compassion can change hearts — including his own.
It was this experience that taught him how true leadership is not defined solely by academic credentials, but by the ability to inspire faith, build trust, and lead people through empathy, humility, and example. While many may possess advanced academic achievements and scholarly qualifications, what Imam Al Ameen offers is something equally vital — and in many ways rarer:

a deep understanding of the human side of da‘wah, leadership born of lived struggle, and the proven ability to build and sustain a diverse faith community under adversity.

Although Imam Al Ameen does not hold a traditional college degree, he possesses unique skills and experiences that directly translate into effective, heartfelt leadership, coupled with a solid foundation in the fundamentals of Islam; extremely rare skills that are immediately transferable.These include:
Community Building – Imam Al Ameen has firsthand experience uniting individuals into a cohesive, disciplined, and spiritually motivated community. Through years of hands-on leadership, he learned how to inspire people from diverse backgrounds to work together toward a shared vision grounded in faith and service.
Public Communication – Imam Al Ameen is articulate, confident, and effective in both community and religious settings. His diverse communication skills enable him to reach and network with people from all backgrounds. The relationships he’s been able to build with several influential figures, even from his prison cell, is indicative of his unique skill set that distinguishes him from most others. His ability to foster relationships is an asset that will benefit any community, business or organization both domestically and on a global level, strengthening fundraising and da’wah initiatives.
Da‘wah and Outreach – Imam Al Ameen’s passion for calling others to Islam continues to guide his every effort, both within and beyond the masjid walls. Over the years, he has developed a unique and effective approach to da’wah. He knows how to reach hearts, especially those who feel disconnected from Islam or society. Imam Al Ameen has an uncanny knack for da’wah and is committed to inviting the masses to the way of Allah and others to build a just and moral society. Imam Al Ameen believes his presence within any community, business or organization would strengthen that entity’s outreach efforts, inspire volunteers, and expand its impact across diverse communities.
Youth Engagement – Imam Al Ameen’s ability to engage and inspire youth is one of his greatest strengths. His unique and inspiring story allows him to reach the youth with authenticity and hope. They see in him that change is possible and that Allah’s mercy is vast. He understands their language, their struggles, and the social pressures they face, allowing him to connect with them on a deeper personal level. This quality - grounded in lived experience and sincere concern - makes Imam Al Ameen uniquely positioned to contribute to  youth and outreach programs, empowering the next generation of believers to carry Islam forward with strength and clarity.
Relatability and Empathy – Imam Al Ameen connects with people of all backgrounds - Arabs, Indians, Africans, etc. - especially those who have faced hardship, earning their trust through sincerity and care. Imam Al Ameen believes these qualities would allow him to serve  diverse communities with genuine care and effectiveness.
Non-profit and Program Management – Imam Al Ameen has co-founded multiple organizations and sat on non-profit boards. Not only does he have experience in governance, fundraising, and partnering with elected officials, but he has also extended this experience to several organizations by acting in an advisory/consulting capacity.
Inspiring Khutbahs – Imam Al Ameen delivers sermons that resonate across generations, addressing real-life challenges with faith-based wisdom. His most recent khutbahs were at the MCC ( one of the largest and oldest masjids in Chicago), MEC, and the American Islamic College. Imam Al Ameen also has formal training in public speaking and debate, and has delivered countless speeches and lectures to large and diverse audiences.
Leadership in Prayer – Imam Al Ameen leads salah with proper tajweed, humility, and khushūʿ.
In short, while most candidates may bring strong academic qualifications, Imam Al Ameen brings life-tested leadership, proven da‘wah success, and the ability to connect hearts and transform lives. These qualities, grounded in sincere faith and practical experience, uniquely position Imam Al Ameen to help any community, business or organization grow into an even more vibrant, unified, and spiritually enriching institution.
I would be honored to discuss how my background, passion and skills can serve your vision. Thank you for your time.
May Allah guide all of us to what pleases Him most and success in His cause.

Wa-salāmu ʿalaykum wa raḥmatullāhi wa barakātuh,

Imam Al Ameen



“I meet people where they are without judgment, and guide them with compassion toward Allah.” - Imam Al Ameen