CAIR-MI Rep Speaks on Communications Management Units Panel
(SOUTHFIELD, MI, 12/9/10) - A representative of the Michigan chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MI) yesterday spoke on a panel discussion at the Henry Ford Centennial Library in Dearborn focusing on Communications Management Units (CMUs) and the expansion of unconstitutional detention policies in the post-9/11 federal prison system.
CAIR-MI Staff Attorney Lena Masri discussed issues of concern facing the broader Muslim community including egregious post 9/11 profiling practices. Masri focused on FBI surveillance at mosques, the FBI controversial usage of confidential informants and the mapping, tracking of religious, racial and ethnic behavior within the Muslim community and CMU facilities.
CMUs are secretive units opened during the Bush administration, which are designed to severely restrict communications between the detained and their family members, media and the general public. Two such units, which are referred to by as "Little Guantanamos" are located in Illinois and Indiana.
SEE: "Little Guantanamo"- Secretive "CMU" Prisons Designed to Restrict Communication of Jailed Muslims and Activists with Outside World (Democracy NOW!)
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/4/17/little_guantanamo_secretive_cmu_prisons_designed
Other speakers on the panel discussion, which was sponsored by the Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR), included CCR attorney Alexis Agathocleous, CCR Education and Outreach Associate Nahal Zamani, and Reem Jayoussi, daughter of a CMU inmate.
"We welcome such opportunities to raise the awareness of the general public about the erosion of civil liberties in America, which has negative consequences for all of her citizens and residents," said CAIR-MI Staff Attorney Lena Masri.
CAIR is America's largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. 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-MI Staff Attorney Lena Masri, 248-390-9784, E-Mail: lmasri@cair.com