The Council on American -Islamic Relations is self-described as "America's largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization." CAIR positions itself as a peaceful organization that denounces terrorism and seeks to bridge the gap between Muslim and non-Muslim Americans.
Many conservatives are skeptical, however, with some calling it a politically correct front for a "Muslim Brotherhood Hate Group." (Allen West is not a fan.)
CAIR's 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."
Today, the organization released a statement headlined "CAIR Welcomes Elimination of Osama Bin Laden."
The full statement is here:
"We join our fellow citizens in welcoming the announcement that Osama bin Laden has been eliminated as a threat to our nation and the world through the actions of American military personnel. As we have stated repeatedly since the 9/11 terror attacks, bin Laden never represented Muslims or Islam. In fact, in addition to the killing of thousands of Americans, he and Al Qaeda caused the deaths of countless Muslims worldwide. We also reiterate President Obama's clear statement tonight that the United States is not at war with Islam."
More on CAIR's antiterror initiatives here.
