Unity, Care, and Resistance: Muslim Civic Coalition joins fellow partners and members at ICIRR Appreciation Day
Thursday, June 25, 2026 – The Muslim Civic Coalition participated in ICIRR’s (Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights) Appreciation Day for members and partners held in Chicago. The room was filled with 300+ organizers and leaders from Chicago, some of whom have been in membership with ICIRR for 40 years.
The event was vibrant, as organizations from across Chicago and Chicagoland came in community with one another to celebrate their collective wins over the past year, including pushing ICIRR’s legislative agenda, participating in mass actions, and standing up against ICE.
During this past legislative session, ICIRR and its members were able to pass:
$40 million investment in funding for public benefits program outreach, interpretation and translation services, and citizenship and DACA application assistance.
$70 million for emergency assistance to help families to stay afloat after losing SNAP due to Trump’s federal budget.
Preserving funds for healthcare for immigrant seniors.
And so much more
As a proud member of ICIRR, the Muslim Civic Coalition is grateful to have been a part of these efforts.
The Coalition team successfully engaged with partners and allies including the DuPage Federation, MENA Community Center, JCUA, and numerous other organizations during the event. The program highlighted ICIRR's achievements while recognizing outstanding members through awards for their contributions to justice, advocacy and service. Notable awardees included Arise Chicago, The Coalition for Spiritual and Public Leadership, and others. Special recognition was given to members who actively lead and participate in Rapid Response Teams– community advocates who consistently defend vulnerable immigrant populations against ICE threats.
This gathering uplifted our collective power, resistance, and resilience while providing an opportunity for appreciation and joy. Participants took this moment to celebrate and enjoy themselves in community with one another, contributed to a powerful art installation, and danced Palestinian dabke together.
Thank you to ICIRR and its members for a joyous and powerful event. The Muslim Civic Coalition remains deeply committed to supporting our immigrant and refugee communities in the continued fight for justice, dignity, and belonging for all.