A good friend recently invited me to attend an event in Chicago hosted by the Council of Islamic Organization of Greater Chicago (CIOGC). Following the tragic events of 9/11, many Muslim Americans experienced increased levels of Islamophobia; ranging from airport strip searches to acts of violence.
I had the opportunity of meeting Abdul Malik Mujahid, at a Greater Chicago Caucus event, but it wasn’t until last week’s CIOGC event that I started to understand his vision, drive and passion for forwarding a new message.
I also met Omar (photo), who is considering a run for Congress in Illinois' 4th District.

I will put a few details below the fold, but for the most part, I recognized that the entire room was filled with like-minded people who wanted social and economic justice.
More below the fold...
Introduction...
As I got to know anti-war activists, immigration rights activists, advocates for education funding and labor leaders. I felt that I was having the same conversations that I would have at a Progressive Democratic Party Convention. The names and the faces had changed, but the message and passion for change were clear and evident.
What is CIOGC interested in accomplishing?
My impression of their goal was to highlight the peaceful nature of Islamic culture, something the mainstream press under-reports, if at all. I find that to be a disservice to all parties.
Political interests included foreign policy, healthcare, immigration reform, worker justice for taxi cab drivers in Chicago, and education. I was struck with the similar mindset within the room. Every person I spoke with was equally concerned with the future of our country and the planet. I found it difficult to pull myself away from the conversations I had, and look forward to more in the future. The one question that kept wandering through my mind was, "how do we bring these two peace movements together?"
Other Politicians attended:
I chose to sit at the "education table" because one of my friends from the Greater Chicago Caucus was at that same table. However, I did notice that Mark Pera and Dan Seals were in attendance. Two Democratic State Representatives also attended the event and we were all recognized as guests of the council.
Meet Malik:
Perhaps one of the most impressive leaders in the peace movement that I have ever met was Abdul Malik Mujahid, who seemed to know everyone in the room and has a true passion for changing the world.

He has the rare ability to bring together community and political leaders, activists and financial contributors, all to work toward a common goal. He is a great network builder who has the ability to quickly evaluate someone’s true intentions and tap into his or her future resourcefulness.
Crossposted at Fireside14.com
Respectfully,
John Laesch
www.john08.com