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The Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM) today announced the launch of the “Voices for Humanity” campaign, featuring the inspiring stories of four Muslim American women who are bravely taking a stand against extremism and violence while promoting tolerance and unity among peoples of all faiths and backgrounds.
In response to the surge in global antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment in the aftermath of October 7th, this campaign aims to counter harmful narratives and showcase voices rejecting hatred and advocating for peace.
The initiative highlights the journeys of Anila Ali, Farhana Khorshed, Soraya M. Deen, and Zebunnesa Zeba Zubair — Muslim American women who immigrated to the United States in search of a more inclusive and progressive society.
The campaign features compelling video stories of the women, and includes a powerful call to action, inviting members of the public to visit vfh.combatantisemitism.org to view the videos and share their own messages in support of interfaith solidarity and harmony.
In the fight for freedom and against extremism, every voice is important.
Meet Anila Ali, Farhana Khorshed, Soraya M. Deen, and Zebunnesa Zeba Zubair: Four Muslim women who have chosen to stand against extremism and violence.https://t.co/zdaj6BPMN2 pic.twitter.com/WlA129UzfK
— Combat Antisemitism Movement (@CombatASemitism) September 9, 2024
By highlighting pro-Western values of human rights and freedom, the campaign also works to counter anti-American ideologies promoted by radical movements.
“The ‘Voices for Humanity’ campaign is a testament to the power of individual voices in combating hatred and promoting understanding,” said Sacha Roytman, CEO of CAM. “These courageous women demonstrate that we can stand together against extremism while upholding values of human rights, freedom, and mutual respect.”
Campaign partners include the Council of Muslims Against Antisemitism, Mosaic Visions, American Muslim & Multifaith Women’s Empowerment Council (AMMWEC), Jewish Institute for Liberal Values (JILV), and Project Max.
Bios of the featured women follow:
Anila Ali, a native of Pakistan, is a retired California public school teacher, Muslim philanthropist, author, and women’s rights advocate. She is a co-founder of the Irvine Pakistani Parents Foundation and CalPak Educational Services. In 2015, she presented at the White House Summit on Countering Violent Extremism, demonstrating her commitment to fostering peace and understanding.
Farhana Khorshed, an interpreter, community leader, and advocate for social and women’s rights, is dedicated to supporting minorities, with a primary focus on the Southeast Asian community in New England. As executive director of Nebaf Inc. (New England Bangladeshi American Foundation), Khorshed works tirelessly to address the challenges faced by families in the community, facilitate the integration of immigrants, and support domestic violence victims.
Soraya M. Deen is an award-winning Muslim feminist activist, community organizer, motivational speaker, corporate trainer, and lawyer. As the founder of the Muslim Women Speakers, Deen’s work prioritizes organizing women for public leadership, religious freedom, and gender equality. She provides tools for women to fight for justice and dignity, and serves as the Co-Chair of the IRF Women’s Working Group, further exemplifying her dedication to interfaith understanding and women’s empowerment.
Zebunnesa Zeba Zubair, a graduate from the Claire Trevor School of Art at the University of California, Irvine, was born and raised in Bangladesh. From the United States, Zubair continues to support her native village of Gazipur, working to improve educational, environmental, and social services. Her ongoing commitment to her roots while embracing her new home embodies the spirit of cultural bridge-building that the “Voices for Humanity” campaign celebrates.
