(ANAHEIM, CA, 4/18/08) - The Greater Los Angeles Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-LA) said today that more than 250 people turned out for a screening of "USA vs. Al-Arian," a documentary highlighting the injustices faced by former Florida professor Dr. Sami Al-Arian.

To watch "USA vs. Al-Arian," click here.

SEE ALSO: Free Sami Al-Arian

CAIR-LA officials said the screening was a success despite efforts by "anti-Muslim bigots" who pressured the owners of the original venue to back out of a signed contract and who tried unsuccessfully to pressure the owners of the second venue into canceling the event.  

Ayloush said, however, that last-minute cancellation by Starplex Cinemas generated more interest in the community, and the new venue, Edwards Cinemas, was able to accommodate more guests and provide a better facility.

"We thank all those who supported the right to freedom of speech and the right to seek redress from the government for the injustices suffered by Dr. Al-Arian," CAIR-LA Executive Director Hussam Ayloush. "Last night's event was a tremendous success despite the pressure exerted by anti-Muslim bigots and those who would censor the political views of others."

The screening was followed by a panel discussion. Panelists included Laila Al-Arian, daughter of Dr. Sami Al-Arian. The program was moderated by Sharaf Mowjood, government relations coordinator of CAIR-LA.  

Laila Al-Arian said of the screening: "USA vs. Al-Arian" is a wonderful teaching tool for the American public to learn about civil liberties in post-9/11. “I am glad that this screening in Southern California was very successful. There was a tremendous turnout and response from the community,” she said.

The event was co-sponsored by the Islamic Shura Council of Southern California, MSA-West, Islamic Center of Irvine, Orange County Islamic Foundation, Palestinian American Society, MSU-UCI and Visual Sound.

Ayloush also said Al-Arian's case was highlighted today in an article in the New York Times.

SEE: Professor in Deadlocked Terrorism Case Could Face a New Indictment

CAIR, America's largest Muslim civil liberties group, has 35 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.

CONTACT: CAIR-LA Communications Coordinator Munira Syeda at 714-776-1847, 714-851-4851, or E-Mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

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The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3), grassroots civil rights and advocacy group. CAIR is America's largest Islamic civil liberties group, with regional offices nationwide and in Canada. The national headquarters is located on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C.

Since its establishment in 1994, CAIR has worked to promote a positive image of Islam and Muslims in America. Through media relations, government relations, education and advocacy, CAIR puts forth an Islamic perspective to ensure the Muslim voice is represented. In offering this perspective, CAIR seeks to empower the American Muslim community and encourage their participation in political and social activism.

Civil Rights Work
CAIR's Civil Rights Department counsels, mediates and advocates on behalf of Muslims and others who have experienced religious discrimination, defamation or hate crimes. The department works to protect and defend the constitutional rights of American Muslims, thereby supporting the rights of all Americans.

Government Affairs
CAIR's Governmental Affairs Department conducts and organizes lobbying efforts on issues related to Islam and Muslims. The department is active in monitoring legislation and government activities and then, responding on behalf of the American Muslim community. CAIR representatives have testified before Congress and have sponsored a number of activities designed to bring Muslim concerns to Capitol Hill.

Media Relations
CAIR's Communications Department works in conjunction with local and national media to ensure an accurate portrayal of Islam and Muslims is presented to the American public. CAIR monitors local, national and international media in part, to challenge negative stereotypes, but also to applaud and encourage positive representations of Islam and Muslims. Over the years, CAIR has become a respected and credible source for journalists and other media professionals.

Action Alerts
In an effort to empower the American Muslim community, CAIR issues "Action Alerts" as a means of generating a grassroots response to critical political, social and media-related issues. These alerts have produced overwhelming results and have made a significant impact in bringing about change. CAIR also offers an email list designed to be a source of information and news for the American Muslim community. Subscribers to the CAIR e-mail lists receive news releases and other materials dealing with American Muslim positions on issues of importance.

Research
CAIR's Research Department conducts empirical research studies on subjects relevant to the American Muslim community, including gathering and analyzing data for the annual civil rights report. The North American Muslim Resource Guide: Muslim Community Life in the United States and Canada (Routledge) is a product of the research department.

Internships
CAIR offers internships to students or other interested individuals who wish to gain experience in media relations, political activism or civil rights work.

CAIR Publications
CAIR offers a variety of publications that address the needs and rights of American Muslims. These publications include guides for employers, educators, healthcare providers, and law enforcement. CAIR also produces practical handbooks and resource materials for the Muslim community. CAIR's Research Department publishes an annual report on the status of American Muslim civil rights, which serves to document hate crimes and discrimination cases reported to CAIR’s Civil Rights Department.

Education: Conferences, Seminars and Workshops
CAIR organizes regular conferences and training seminars for government and law enforcement agencies, media professionals and the academic community. These events are designed to present easily accessible and accurate information about Islam and Muslims. CAIR’s TeamWorks sensitivity and diversity training workshop is offered to employers, educators and organizations as a proactive approach that highlights relevant Islamic practices and offers suggestions for religious accommodation. CAIR also provides training for the Muslim Community and activists in areas such as media relations, public speaking, lobbying, and civil rights.

Voter Registration
In order to increase Muslim participation in the political arena, CAIR and its chapters regularly sponsor voter registration drives across the country. To register to vote, visit our website.

Outreach and Interfaith Relations
Each year, groups representing people of all faiths visit CAIR offices to learn more about Islam and Muslims in America. Through these visits, as well as other interfaith initiatives, CAIR strives to educate others about Islam while building strong relationships with other faith communities.