Arab American Civil Rights League

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Arab American Civil Rights League

ACRL works to preserve and protect the civil rights of all people

02/01/2026

ACRL Mourns the Passing of Ismael Ahmed

The Arab Civil Rights League (ACRL) mourns the passing of Ismael Ahmed, a visionary leader, tireless advocate, and foundational figure in the civic, humanitarian, and civil rights life of Arab and Muslim communities in Michigan and across the nation.

Ismael Ahmed devoted his life to public service and institution-building. As a longtime leader of ACCESS, he helped transform one of the nation’s most important Arab American organizations into a nationally recognized model for community-based health, social, and legal services. Through his leadership, countless families found care, dignity, and opportunity—often at their most vulnerable moments.

In public service, Ismael continued this mission as Director of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, where he worked to expand access to healthcare, strengthen community partnerships, and ensure that marginalized and vulnerable populations were treated with fairness, compassion, and respect. His tenure reflected a deep commitment to equity and a firm belief that government can—and must—serve the people with humanity.

“Ismael Ahmed was a giant in our community whose life was defined by service, compassion, and an unshakable commitment to human dignity. He built institutions that cared for people when they needed it most and inspired generations to believe that justice, equity, and community are not ideals, but obligations. His passing is a profound loss for Arab Americans, for Michigan, and for all who believe in public service rooted in humanity. May his legacy continue to guide us, and may Allah grant him mercy.” Nasser Beydoun, Chairman ACRL

Beyond his many accomplishments, Ismael was known for his moral clarity, generosity of spirit, and unwavering belief in the power of community. He mentored generations of leaders, bridged divides with wisdom and grace, and never lost sight of the human beings behind every policy and every struggle.

ACRL extends its deepest condolences to his wife Margaret, their children, grandchildren, family, loved ones, colleagues, and all who were touched by his life and work. His legacy will endure in the institutions he strengthened, the people he inspired, and the communities he uplifted.

We will share information regarding services s it becomes available.

11/28/2025

ACRL Launches “Don’t Engage Hate” Campaign to Protect and Unite the Community

09/30/2025

The Arab American Civil Rights League (ACRL) strongly condemns the violent threats made by Macin Horstemeyer of Virginia, now facing federal terrorism charges for allegedly plotting an attack on a mosque in Dearborn, Michigan.

This was a premeditated act of hate targeting one of the country’s largest Arab and Muslim communities. Such threats violate both the law and every American’s right to safety and freedom of worship.

Authorities say Horstemeyer discussed attacking multiple mosques and posted disturbing content online — a chilling reminder of rising white supremacist extremism and online radicalization.

We commend the swift action of federal law enforcement in preventing a potential tragedy, but more must be done.

🛡️ ACRL calls on leaders and tech platforms to:
* Strengthen protections for houses of worship
* Tackle online extremism
* Treat white supremacy as a national security threat

💬 “We must never let hate go unchallenged. Our places of worship are sacred, and our freedom to pray without fear is non-negotiable.”
— Mariam Charara, ACRL Executive Director

ACRL stands in full solidarity with Dearborn’s Muslim community. No one should fear being targeted for their faith.

09/29/2025

The Arab American Civil Rights League (ACRL) is heartbroken and outraged by the deadly shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan.

We extend our deepest condolences to the victims’ families and stand in full solidarity with the community during this time of grief.

Houses of worship must be places of peace and safety — not fear.
We unequivocally condemn this violent act and call for urgent action to confront hate and protect all faith communities.

🛑 No one should fear for their life while practicing their faith.
We demand protection, accountability, and healing.

09/26/2025

🧠 Mental Health Deserves Compassion — Not Criminalization

Yesterday’s court hearing for Hassan Chokr reminded us of the ongoing crisis at the intersection of mental health and the criminal justice system.

Attorney Nabih Ayad, founder of the Arab American Civil Rights League (ACRL), has been representing Hassan as his legal counsel.

Meanwhile, ACRL as an organization continues to advocate for Hassan’s dignity and due process.

Executive Director Mariam Charara, a licensed clinical social worker and longtime mental health advocate, has:

✔️Attended all court hearings
✔️Supported the family with critical resources
✔️Assisted in gathering support from the community
✔️Raised awareness about the urgent need for mental health care—not incarceration

Hassan is more than his diagnosis. He’s a son, a brother, and a human being struggling with untreated mental illness. His case is a reflection of the larger systemic issue—mental health should never be criminalized.

We will continue standing in solidarity with Hassan and his family until justice is rooted in compassion.

09/16/2025

The Supreme Court has lifted a ban on ICE tactics in Los Angeles that critics say amount to racial profiling. This ruling means federal agents can now stop and question people based on ethnicity, language, or occupation — practices that unfairly target immigrant and minority communities.

The Arab American Civil Rights League (ACRL) stands firmly against discriminatory profiling. No one should be treated as “fair game” because of how they look, where they work, or the language they speak.

We will continue to fight for justice, equality, and the protection of constitutional rights for all.

09/11/2025

Today, the Arab American Civil Rights League (ACRL) joins our nation in solemn remembrance of the lives lost on 9/11, honoring the victims, survivors, first responders, and families forever impacted by that day.

We will never forget the heartbreak, nor the resilience that emerged in its aftermath. As we reflect, we recommit ourselves to the values of justice, peace, and unity that must guide us forward.

In remembering this tragedy, we also recognize the importance of standing against hate in all its forms - then and now - and building a future rooted in dignity, compassion, and mutual respect.

💙 We remember. We honor. We stand together.

09/08/2025

🚨 A Historic Honor for Arab American Voices

The Arab American Civil Rights League (ACRL) proudly celebrates the naming of “Osama Siblani Street” — a powerful tribute to the lifelong work and legacy of Arab American journalist and civil rights advocate Osama Siblani.

📍 This honorary stretch of Warren Avenue in Dearborn recognizes decades of fearless advocacy, truth-telling, and unwavering commitment to justice.

As ACRL Chairman Nabih Ayad said:
“He gave a voice to the voiceless in a community that has been used to marginalization and discrimination… Osama stood tall when others ran for cover… We salute you, Brother Osama. Your legacy will not be forgotten.”

This isn’t just about a street sign. It’s about visibility, representation, and honoring those who fought for our voices to be heard.

08/20/2025

The Arab American Civil Rights League (ACRL) strongly condemns the U.S. State Department’s decision to suspend all visitor visas for residents of Gaza.

This discriminatory policy is not just bureaucratic — it’s inhumane.

It denies children access to urgent medical care.
It separates families already torn by war.
It punishes a population facing siege, famine, and bombardment — simply for being Palestinian.

Humanitarian access is not a privilege. It is a human right.

The United States must immediately reverse this ban and uphold its moral and legal obligation to dignity, compassion, and justice.

We stand in solidarity with organizations like Heal Palestine and all partners working tirelessly to provide lifesaving aid and care for Palestinians. Together, we will not stay silent while innocent lives are blocked from care, family, and safety.

📞 313-633-0231 or [email protected]

Address

19855 Outer Drive Dearborn MI Suite 202
Dearborn, MI
48124

Telephone

+13136330231

Website

https://acrlmich.org/

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