CAIR-St. Louis Mission

CAIR-St. Louis is a local chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation's largest civil rights organization and public advocacy group.

Our Mission

The Mission of CAIR-St. Louis is to advance the American and Muslim ideals of justice and liberty by:

  • protecting the constitutional rights of all Muslims
  • promoting an accurate portrayal of Islam
  • fostering political and social activism

For the latest news on how you can get involved with CAIR-St Louis, click on the Contact Us menu item on the left.

What is CAIR?

The Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR) is a non-profit, grassroots membership organization. We have headquarters in Washington, D.C., and CAIR chapters across America. CAIR was established to promote a positive image of Islam and Muslims in America. We believe misrepresentations of Islam are most often the result of ignorance on the part of non-Muslims and reluctance on the part of Muslims to articulate their case. CAIR is dedicated to presenting an Islamic perspective on issues of importance to the American public. In offering that perspective, we seek to empower the Muslim community in America through media awareness, as well as political and social activism.

CAIR-St. Louis' History

The St. Louis Chapter of CAIR was started in October, 2000, to help educate Muslims living in the Eastern Missouri and Southern Illinois as to their rights and ways to become active participants in the American experience. CAIR-St. Louis is also committed to serving as a bridge between Muslims and non-Muslims, as well as to educate the American populace as to the true nature of Islam.

How does CAIR-St. Louis fulfill its mission?

The work of CAIR-St. Louis volunteers focuses upon four primary issues:

  • The Media Relations Group serves as a liaison between the St. Louis Muslim community and local journalists in the hopes of establishing clear lines of communication and presenting Muslim perspectives on important issues.
  • The Political Affairs Group seeks to encourage active participation in the political process by Muslims and tracks legislation affecting Muslims living in our area.
  • The Community Relations Group is working towards establishing connections with various outside charitable, religious and social organizations and is responsible for encouraging local Muslims to become involved with CAIR-St. Louis activities.
  • The Civil Rights Group assists St. Louis-area Muslims in issues relating to discrimination, work place prayer accommodations and other important legal issues.