At the first anniversary of my time as your Staff Attorney and then Civil Rights Director, I am reflecting on a year filled with growth and learning. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the opportunity you have given me to become an advocate for your community and a friend to so many of you. This year’s first ever Civil Rights Report is to benefit you, the community, and give you and up-close look at what we do in the Civil Rights Department. It’s also my way of thanking you for your support and contributions that make our work possible.

In the past year, I have grown as a young lawyer through networking with other civil rights leaders and activists,
reaffirming my professional commitment to equality and social justice. Close partnerships with a variety of other legal service providers have given me positive examples and a place to go with my questions and concerns. Through the many CAIR-OK events and programs that we have held, I have been able to discuss how my services can best reach the community, strengthening the growth of civil rights advocacy in our state.

I have also grown personally, expanding my knowledge of the Oklahoma Muslim community and of Islam as a world religion. As an ally to the Muslim community, I have been learning the ways I can best support my Muslim brothers and sisters both in and out of the office. It has been a wonderful journey and I am so fortunate to have these experiences as part of my working culture.

Building a career in the civil rights world has truly been an honor and a privilege, and serving CAIR Oklahoma as your Civil Rights Director is a pleasure I look forward to every day. Thank you so much for this opportunity to serve you and your community, and enjoy our first Civil Rights Report!