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KCBS – December 10, 2006
California Muslims aim for greater political involvement
Bay Area Muslims have pledged to become more politically aware and politically active. The Muslim American Project sponsored an event in Newark Saturday night where local Muslims could meet with several elected officials.
Project Spokeswoman Moina Shaiq told KCBS' Tim Ryan that more and more Muslims are deciding to vote, and many are now enjoying the outcome of the most recent elections.
"People are happy with the outcome because of what's been happening in the past several years. The general public is not very happy with the current administration policies."
Shaiq said they are also celebrating the election of the first Muslim to Congress, Democrat Keith Ellison of Minneapolis, who says he'll take his oath of office on the Koran.
"We're very proud and we feel that we have a voice," said Shaiq.
The most important issues in the Muslim community are civil rights, due process and the war in Iraq, according to Shaiq. Her organization hopes the recent meeting is the start of a future where politics will have a stronger Muslim voice.
http://kcbs.com/pages/145612.php?contentType=4&contentId=255950
Mercury News – December 9, 2006
Muslims gather to celebrate their influence in elections
Lisa Fernandez
Bay Area Muslims and various politicians are coming together tonight in Newark for a meet-and-greet to celebrate the contribution of the Muslim vote in local, state and national elections this year.
The event is being sponsored by Muslim American Project -- Voters, and supported by many other organizations, including the Council on American Islamic Relations, American Muslim Voice, Indian Muslim Relief & Charities, North American Islamic Shelter for the Abused and United Muslims of America.
``It's more than just dinner,'' organizer Umair Muzaafar said. ``It's a way to connect to the politicians. Food is just secondary.''
According to community activists, the Bay Area Muslim community went out in force to support politicians such as U.S. Rep. Jerry McNerney, D-Pleasanton, and candidate Pete McCloskey, and Fremont council members Bill Harrison and Anu Natarajan.
There is space for up to 500 at Chandni Restaurant, 5748 Mowry School Road in Newark. Cost is $30 per couple, and at least 200 people have purchased tickets, organizers said.
http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/local/states/california/peninsula/16202160.htm
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