January 29, 2001
Source: Council on American-Islamic Relations
On January 29, 2001, the Council on American-Islamic Relations expressed its support for President Bush's faith-based initiative program. CAIR Executive Director Nihad Awad said that "Muslim individuals and groups in cities around America work daily to provide free medical care, housing for the homeless and the abused, rehabilitation for prison inmates, as well as social services and relief for victims of natural disasters. In this vital work, the government should act as a supporter, not as an obstacle to overcome. President Bush's action will only help American Muslims, and other faith communities, better serve those in need." There are an estimated six million Muslims in the United States.