Public Policy & NGOs
Here's a look at documents from public policy and non-governmental organizations
Featured Stories
Human Rights Watch Issues Commentary: U.S. Congress Approves Immigration Funding Despite Abuses
NEW YORK, June 17 [Category: International] -- Human Rights Watch posted the following commentary by Connor Swenson, intern for Washington advocacy:
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US Congress Approves Immigration Funding Despite Abuses
Lawmakers Should Still Press for Transparency and Accountability
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US President Donald Trump signed the Secure America Act into law on June 10, including roughly $70 billion for immigration enforcement. The legislation funds several agencies through September 2029, including approximately $38 billion for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and $26 billion for US Customs and Border
... Show Full Article
NEW YORK, June 17 [Category: International] -- Human Rights Watch posted the following commentary by Connor Swenson, intern for Washington advocacy:
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US Congress Approves Immigration Funding Despite Abuses
Lawmakers Should Still Press for Transparency and Accountability
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US President Donald Trump signed the Secure America Act into law on June 10, including roughly $70 billion for immigration enforcement. The legislation funds several agencies through September 2029, including approximately $38 billion for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and $26 billion for US Customs and BorderProtection (CBP).
Congressional approval for this legislation comes after months of controversy in Congress over funding for ICE and CBP, and without adopting essential oversight and accountability reforms.
Over the past year and a half, Human Rights Watch has documented abuses by federal immigration authorities. During the US government's campaign of raids and detentions throughout the summer of 2025 in Los Angeles, Human Rights Watch found that ICE and CBP agents relied on tactics including detaining people based on their perceived race, ethnicity, or national origin, and using excessive force. These abuses have sowed terror in immigrant communities. In Illinois, Human Rights Watch documented federal agents using excessive force against peaceful protestors, legal observers, volunteer street medics, and journalists outside an ICE detention facility.
Human Rights Watch also documented inhumane immigration detention conditions in Florida in 2025 including overcrowding, degrading treatment and denial of medical care, conditions that may have been linked to two deaths. Recently, people detained at the Delaney Hall facility launched a hunger strike over medical neglect, poor sanitation, spoiled food, bond denials, and alleged coercion to sign deportation-related documents.
Lawmakers and activists have proposed a range of reforms to DHS operations including requiring judicial warrants for entry onto private property, stronger measures to ban racial profiling, restricting masked and unidentified agents, protecting sensitive locations, and strengthening accountability for immigration abuses. By failing to pass any reforms at all, Congress missed a pivotal opportunity to hold officials accountable and improve oversight to prevent future abuses. This risks allowing patterns of violence, medical neglect, inhumane detention, and impunity to continue.
The funding bill's passage should not be the end of the debate. Congress should use its oversight authority to investigate patterns of abuse in immigration enforcement and detention and introduce reforms and accountability to prevent further abuses. Congress should also press the administration to curb abusive enforcement practices, increase transparency around enforcement operations, improve medical care and conditions in custody, and pursue alternatives to detention.
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Original text here: https://www.hrw.org/news/2026/06/16/us-congress-approves-immigration-funding-despite-abuses
Human Rights Watch Issues Commentary: European Parliament Presses for Action to End Transnational Repression
NEW YORK, June 17 [Category: International] -- Human Rights Watch posted the following commentary by European Union Director for Advocacy Philippe Dam:
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European Parliament Presses for Action to End Transnational Repression
Bold Responses Needed to Protect People at Risk
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The European Parliament in Strasbourg adopted on June 16 its second motion in a year pressing European Union institutions and governments to address transnational repression.
Transnational repression encompasses violations used by states to target, silence, or intimidate critics, particularly nationals and former
... Show Full Article
NEW YORK, June 17 [Category: International] -- Human Rights Watch posted the following commentary by European Union Director for Advocacy Philippe Dam:
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European Parliament Presses for Action to End Transnational Repression
Bold Responses Needed to Protect People at Risk
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The European Parliament in Strasbourg adopted on June 16 its second motion in a year pressing European Union institutions and governments to address transnational repression.
Transnational repression encompasses violations used by states to target, silence, or intimidate critics, particularly nationals and formernationals, who are outside their borders and beyond their territorial jurisdictions. In its worst forms, transnational repression includes killings, attacks, and abductions by government operators or their proxies. Other forms of transnational repression-online harassment, surveillance, denial of consular services, harassment of relatives at home, and abusive extradition requests-are harder to document but have a chilling effect.
Exiled human rights defenders, journalists, and opposition supporters are particularly at risk. But virtually anyone who fled repression or speaks out against abuses can become a target. The European Parliament lists China, Iran, Russia, and Belarus at the top of states engaged in transnational repression in Europe and globally. But others, including Egypt, Azerbaijan, Turkiye, and Rwanda, have a troubling record. In east Africa and southeast Asia, governments appear to facilitate or turn a blind eye to cross-border repression on their soil, exponentially increasing the harm transnational repression does to human rights and rule of law.
In recent years, the EU's foreign service has boosted its response to transnational repression, with 2025 seeing references in statements to China 's human rights record and in an EU-led resolution on human rights in Eritrea, and sanctions against Iranian officials.
The European Parliament's motions now provide a more ambitious roadmap for the EU to translate into concrete steps to prevent transnational repression, protect people at risk, and act against those responsible.
To do so, EU institutions and members should investigate transnational repression cases, including the roles of officials aiding or abetting such acts, frame them as violations of human rights, inform and protect victims or potential victims, and avoid complicity with abusive extradition requests or during asylum proceedings.
They should also use foreign policy to ensure states practicing transnational repression face consequences. With its broad diplomatic footprint, the EU can and should speak up without selectivity and make clear that states involved in transnational repression will face political consequences.
Finally, the EU should work with states from all regions to ensure an international response focused on protection and prevention and support efforts by the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.
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Original text here: https://www.hrw.org/news/2026/06/16/european-parliament-presses-for-action-to-end-transnational-repression
Club for Growth PAC Congratulates Rep. Mike Collins on GA-SEN Runoff Victory
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- Club for Growth PAC issued the following news release:
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Club for Growth PAC Congratulates Rep. Mike Collins on GA-SEN Runoff Victory
Club for Growth PAC congratulates Rep. Mike Collins (CFGF Lifetime Rating: 100%) on winning the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate in Georgia. Collins defeated Derek Dooley in the contest and will face incumbent Jon Ossoff in the general election. Both Club for Growth PAC and President Donald Trump endorsed Collins in the race.
"Mike Collins is exactly the conservative fighter Georgia needs to take back this Senate seat in November,"
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- Club for Growth PAC issued the following news release:
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Club for Growth PAC Congratulates Rep. Mike Collins on GA-SEN Runoff Victory
Club for Growth PAC congratulates Rep. Mike Collins (CFGF Lifetime Rating: 100%) on winning the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate in Georgia. Collins defeated Derek Dooley in the contest and will face incumbent Jon Ossoff in the general election. Both Club for Growth PAC and President Donald Trump endorsed Collins in the race.
"Mike Collins is exactly the conservative fighter Georgia needs to take back this Senate seat in November,"said Club for Growth PAC President David McIntosh. "While Jon Ossoff has been a rubber stamp for every failed liberal policy enacted since being elected, Mike Collins has lowered taxes for Georgians, cut wasteful spending, and given Georgia parents a voice in their children's education. The contrast could not be clearer."
Club for Growth Action and its affiliated Win It Back PAC invested in a series of ads across the state promoting Mike Collins' candidacy. Club for Growth PAC members contributed $52,763 directly to Collins' campaign.
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Original text here: https://www.clubforgrowth.org/club-for-growth-pac-congratulates-rep-mike-collins-on-ga-sen-runoff-victory/
[Category: Political]
CAIR-WA Condemns Provost's Disruption of Muslim Student's Participation in Commencement Based on Religious/Identity Expression
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Council on American-Islamic Relations posted the following news release on June 16, 2026:
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CAIR-WA Condemns Provost's Disruption of Muslim Student's Participation in Commencement Based on Religious/Identity Expression
The Washington state chapter of the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR-WA), a chapter of the nation's largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned a Seattle University provost's aggressive action toward a Black Muslim student at the commencement ceremony, apparently based on the student's religious and identity
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Council on American-Islamic Relations posted the following news release on June 16, 2026:
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CAIR-WA Condemns Provost's Disruption of Muslim Student's Participation in Commencement Based on Religious/Identity Expression
The Washington state chapter of the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR-WA), a chapter of the nation's largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned a Seattle University provost's aggressive action toward a Black Muslim student at the commencement ceremony, apparently based on the student's religious and identityexpressions.
On July 14, at a Seattle University commencement ceremony, a Muslim student walked across the stage to receive her diploma. She communicated to the provost that she does not shake hands with men for religious reasons, she then attempted to hold up her Palestinian flag and had it aggressively ripped away by the provost and subsequently physically accosted her.
Other identities and cultures were reportedly represented at the same graduation ceremony but did not face any censorship.
SEE: Video of Muslim student assaulted by provost here (https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZnRGcnME91/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==)
Imraan Siddiqi, CAIR-WA Executive Director, said:
"This blatant act of aggression and suppression is unacceptable. No provost should be getting physical with a student. We demand that Seattle University publicly apologize to the student.
"We are extremely troubled by this incident, which has now been seen worldwide. What was supposed to be a joyous day, has been traumatizing for this Muslim student and her family. We call on the university to apologize immediately."
He said CAIR-WA is in active communication with the student to ensure she is safe and that there is accountability.
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CAIR's mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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Original text here: https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-wa-condemns-provosts-disruption-of-muslim-students-participation-in-commencement-based-on-religious-identity-expression/
[Category: Sociological]
CAIR-Chicago Stands in Solidarity With Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez Following Blast Outside His Home
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Council on American-Islamic Relations posted the following news release on June 15, 2026:
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CAIR-Chicago Stands in Solidarity with Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez Following Blast Outside His Home
The Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Chicago), a chapter of the nation's largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today expressed solidarity with 25th Ward Alderman and community leader Byron Sigcho-Lopez following a blast outside his home in the early morning hours of June 13, while his three children were inside the residence.
The
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WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Council on American-Islamic Relations posted the following news release on June 15, 2026:
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CAIR-Chicago Stands in Solidarity with Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez Following Blast Outside His Home
The Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Chicago), a chapter of the nation's largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today expressed solidarity with 25th Ward Alderman and community leader Byron Sigcho-Lopez following a blast outside his home in the early morning hours of June 13, while his three children were inside the residence.
Theexplosion occurred at about 12:45 a.m. on Saturday in Pilsen and shattered the window of Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez's home near West 21st Street and South Damen Avenue. According to Sigcho-Lopez's office, his three children were inside the home sleeping at the time.
An individual reportedly exited a vehicle, ignited an explosive device directly in front of the home, and fled moments before the explosion shattered a window of the residence. The Chicago Police Department's Bomb and Arson Unit is currently investigating the incident.
CAIR-Chicago affirms that acts of intimidation, violence, or threats directed at elected officials, community leaders, or any member of the public have no place in our city. Political disagreements must never escalate into actions that endanger lives, instill fear, or undermine civic participation.
In a statement, Jordan Esparza-Kelley, Communications Coordinator for CAIR-Chicago, said:
"We are relieved that no one was injured but are disturbed by the alarming nature of this incident and its potential implications for the safety of the alderman, his family and neighbors.
"Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez has consistently served his community with a people-first agenda. Unfortunately, when elected officials truly put their communities first, some people respond to that commitment with hate. CAIR-Chicago has been proud to work alongside Alderman Sigcho-Lopez on numerous initiatives, and we look forward to continuing that partnership and advocacy despite apparent attempts to deter him through violence.
"We stand in solidarity with Ald. Sigcho-Lopez, his family and the residents of the 25th Ward during this unsettling time. We will continue to monitor developments and support efforts that promote accountability, justice and the safety of all Chicagoans."
CAIR-Chicago called on public officials, community organizations, and residents across Chicago to reject political violence and reaffirm our shared commitment to building a better Chicago through Civil Rights advocacy. As we have consistently maintained, threats, hate, and violence directed at any individual or community must be addressed with equal urgency and equal resolve.
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CAIR's mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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Original text here: https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-chicago-stands-in-solidarity-with-alderman-byron-sigcho-lopez-following-blast-outside-his-home/
[Category: Sociological]
CAIR-Chicago Calls for Censure of La Salle Co. Board Member Over Islamophobic Remarks
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Council on American-Islamic Relations posted the following news release on June 16, 2026:
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CAIR-Chicago Calls for Censure of La Salle Co. Board Member Over Islamophobic Remarks
The Chicago office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Chicago), the nation's largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned Islamophobic remarks made by LaSalle County Board Member James Reid regarding a proposed housing development in LaSalle County and called on the county board to formally censure him.
During a June 8 public meeting, Reid falsely
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Council on American-Islamic Relations posted the following news release on June 16, 2026:
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CAIR-Chicago Calls for Censure of La Salle Co. Board Member Over Islamophobic Remarks
The Chicago office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Chicago), the nation's largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned Islamophobic remarks made by LaSalle County Board Member James Reid regarding a proposed housing development in LaSalle County and called on the county board to formally censure him.
During a June 8 public meeting, Reid falselysuggested that the development would operate under "Sharia law." He further attempted to justify his remarks by claiming he had "the experience of seeing how Sharia law works" while serving in the U.S. military.
"These Islamophobic statements represent the alarming comfortability with being anti-Muslim as an elected official," said CAIR-Chicago Executive Director Ahmed Rehab. "Like any other housing development, a development made within the state of Illinois will be governed under Illinois state law."
The developer has publicly rejected claims that the project would be a "Muslim-only resort," describing those allegations as false and reiterating that the development will comply with all applicable local, state, and federal laws. Despite these assurances, public discussion surrounding the proposal has been fueled by misinformation and unfounded conspiracy theories rather than facts.
Claims that American Muslims seek to replace U.S. law with "Sharia law" are a longstanding anti-Muslim trope used to generate fear, suspicion, and hostility toward Muslim communities.
The Constitution's Supremacy Clause makes clear that the Constitution is the law of the land. No faith community can impose its religious beliefs on the American people, and no branch of government can prevent Americans from freely practicing their faith. Allegations to the contrary are baseless conspiracy theories.
Faith-centered communities are neither unusual nor controversial in the United States. Americans of many religious traditions choose to live near houses of worship, schools, and institutions that reflect their values. Illinois is home to Reba Place Fellowship, an intentional Christian community in Evanston and Chicago, while similar faith-based communities exist throughout the country. These communities operate under the same laws and constitutional protections as everyone else.
Vairt, a Pennsylvania-based company, has stated that its projects are designed to comply fully with local, state, and federal laws and regulations. CAIR-Chicago is deeply concerned that the company has already reported facing significant misinformation, hostility, and, in some cases, threats directed at its team members and prospective residents before construction has even begun.
Public officials have a responsibility to engage in fact-based discussions and uphold constitutional principles, not amplify fear and prejudice. Statements that falsely portray Muslim-led developments as threats to public safety or the rule of law stigmatize Muslim communities, fuel hostility, and undermine the values of religious liberty and equal protection that define our nation.
CAIR-Chicago calls on the LaSalle County Board to formally censure Board Member Reid for promoting anti-Muslim conspiracy theories and making remarks incompatible with the responsibilities of public office. Elected officials have a duty to represent all residents fairly and foster informed public discussion, not inflame prejudice against religious minorities.
CAIR-Chicago also urges local leaders and community members to reject misinformation and engage in constructive, fact-based dialogue about the proposed development.
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CAIR's mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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Original text here: https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-chicago-calls-for-censure-of-la-salle-co-board-member-over-islamophobic-remarks/
[Category: Sociological]
CAIR Welcomes Calls From International Medical Groups to Suspend Israel From World Medical Association
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Council on American-Islamic Relations posted the following news release on June 15, 2026:
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CAIR Welcomes Calls from International Medical Groups to Suspend Israel from World Medical Association
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation's largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed calls from international medical groups for Israel to be suspended from the World Medical Association.
A petition organized by The People's Health Movement, the Dutch organization Doctors for Gaza, as well as the health wing of Jewish Voice
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Council on American-Islamic Relations posted the following news release on June 15, 2026:
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CAIR Welcomes Calls from International Medical Groups to Suspend Israel from World Medical Association
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation's largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed calls from international medical groups for Israel to be suspended from the World Medical Association.
A petition organized by The People's Health Movement, the Dutch organization Doctors for Gaza, as well as the health wing of Jewish Voicefor Peace said that the Israeli Medical Association (IMA) was failing "to uphold core medical ethical standards, including the WMA Declarations of Geneva and Tokyo." It said that the IMA was also complicit in "serious violations of medical neutrality and human rights" committed by Israel's government and military.
The petition has more than 1,300 signatories, including a number of well-known health professionals, as well as organizations such as Health Workers for Palestine in Spain, Doctors Against Genocide based in the US.
SEE: Petition calls for boycott of Israeli Medical AssociationPressure mounts to suspend Israeli medical association from global body | Middle East Eye (https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/pressure-mounts-suspend-israeli-medical-association-global-body)
In a statement, Washington, D.C., based CAIR said:
"We welcome the principled and brave stance taken by medical organizations worldwide demanding Israel be suspended from the World Medical Association. Over the course of its brutal genocide in Gaza, Israel has repeatedly targeted, killed and kidnapped medical personnel and denied Palestinians desperately-needed medical attention. Any medical organization that legitimated these atrocities has broken its oath and must be condemned."
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Original text here: https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-welcomes-calls-from-international-medical-groups-to-suspend-israel-from-world-medical-association/
[Category: Sociological]
