Ayman Aishat Solicits Donations Amid Controversial Remarks on Trump and U.S. Policies
Ayman Aishat, the Director of Mosque Engagement for the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), sparked controversy during a Friday sermon on January 31, 2025, at the Islamic Center of Passaic County in Paterson, New Jersey. In his address, Aishat solicited donations ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 for CAIR’s initiatives while criticizing former President Donald Trump and Texas Governor Greg Abbott.
Referring to Trump as the "Orange Thing," Aishat accused the new administration of targeting Muslims and minority groups through executive orders and policies.
Fundraising Appeal and Political Criticism
During his sermon, Aishat emphasized the importance of CAIR's work, describing it as a religious obligation. He called on attendees to contribute financially to support legal battles and advocacy efforts. "If you can give $50,000, $25,000, $10,000, please see me outside," he urged.
Aishat also revisited Trump’s first term in office, accusing him of threatening to ban Muslims and implementing policies that targeted minorities. “Eight years ago, the Orange Thing threatened to ban Muslims, and we stood up firmly against him,” Aishat said. He claimed that CAIR is now better prepared to counter such challenges despite recent executive orders' "big" obstacles.
Legal Actions Against Texas Governor Greg Abbott
A significant portion of Aishat’s speech was dedicated to criticizing Texas Governor Greg Abbott, whom he described as "more Zionist than Netanyahu." He accused Abbott of attempting to suppress the voices of Muslim students at the University of Texas through legislation targeting pro-Palestinian activism. Aishat revealed that CAIR had filed lawsuits against Abbott for these actions. “He hates CAIR attorneys big time,” Aishat remarked.
The criticism aligns with broader concerns about recent federal and state-level policies perceived as suppressing free speech on college campuses. Advocacy groups argue that measures targeting pro-Palestinian protests could chill free expression and disproportionately affect Muslim students.
Concerns Over Tax-Exempt Status
Aishat also warned that the current administration is attempting to undermine non-profit organizations and mosques by threatening their tax-exempt status. He framed this as part of a broader effort to weaken Muslim institutions in the United States. “The work of CAIR becomes ethically and religiously mandatory,” he said, emphasizing that donations to CAIR remain tax-exempt despite these challenges.
Trump’s Executive Orders
The sermon took place against the backdrop of renewed controversy over Trump’s policies targeting Muslim communities.
In late January 2025, Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to identify countries with inadequate security measures—a move reminiscent of his 2017 travel ban targeting several Muslim-majority nations. Civil rights organizations have criticized the order as discriminatory and warned that it could lead to further marginalization of Muslim communities.
Additionally, Trump recently pledged to revoke visas for foreign students participating in pro-Palestinian protests on college campuses. The executive order labeled such activities as “pro-jihadist” and “anti-Semitic,” prompting concerns about free speech violations.
Reactions to Aishat’s Remarks
Aishat’s comments have drawn mixed reactions from various quarters. Supporters view his remarks as a rallying cry for defending Muslim rights in an increasingly hostile political climate. However, critics argue that his rhetoric risks deepening divisions and alienating potential allies.
Sami Abu Zuhri, a senior Hamas official, praised CAIR’s efforts during a separate event, calling their work essential for combating Islamophobia in America. Meanwhile, organizations like the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) have previously criticized CAIR leaders for engaging in rhetoric they describe as anti-Semitic or anti-Zionist.
Challenges and Opportunities
As CAIR continues its advocacy work under heightened scrutiny, its leaders face significant challenges navigating a polarized political landscape. The organization’s legal battles against figures like Governor Abbott underscore its commitment to defending civil rights and highlight its activism's contentious nature.
In conclusion, Ayman Aishat’s remarks reflect the urgency and complexity of CAIR’s mission in 2025. While his statements have energized supporters, they underscore the need for measured dialogue and coalition-building to address systemic discrimination effectively. The coming months will reveal whether CAIR can balance its confrontational approach with broader efforts to foster understanding and unity in an increasingly divided society.