The Council on Islamic American Relations (CAIR) apparently thinks it is need of a better image, so it announces a "new brand identity" on its website this month. The rebranding also includes a new logo. Hmm, sounds like they've been talking to expensive marketing consultants.

Here's what they say about it.

"The Council on American—Islamic Relations (CAIR) today announced the launch of a new brand identity and logo. The new identity focuses on openness, professionalism and the pursuit of mutual understanding and justice.

"CAIR made its announcement at the convention of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) in Chicago, North America's largest annual gathering of Muslims."

Because observant Muslims do not imbibe alcohol, I wonder if they toasted the move with a non—alcoholic beverage. My suggestion would have been New Coke, of course.

The organization's head elaborates.

CAIR Board Chairman Parvez Ahmed stated: "After 12 years of dedicated service to the community, we are reaffirming our core values and recommitting ourselves to three central aspects of CAIR's mission — enhancing understanding of Islam, protecting civil liberties and empowering American Muslims."

He also wrote about the need to transform CAIR in ways that better reflect the group's core commitment to justice, education, diversity, and dialogue.

Ahmed concluded his letter by stating: "CAIR is your organization and it is our privilege and honor to serve you and to promote a better America."

Would that better America be ruled by Sharia law? CAIR's leadership's views on the matter are the subject of hot dispute. However, it appears that there seems to be no dispute over the fact that former CAIR employees and officials have been involved in terror.

There is only so much that you can do with a new brand when the underlying product has problems. There's an old saw about putting lipstick on a certain barnyard animal, but given Muslim sensitivities to this creature, and not wanting to be accused of hate speech, I will refrain from mentioning it.

If CAIR really wants to improve its image, it could start by denouncing the forced conversion of Steve Centanni and Olaf Wiig, at gunpopint. I have searched the CAIR website and found none. If I have missed it, I would be grateful to learn of CAIR's rejection, and its proclamation that these men have been victimized and are under no obligation to be Muslims.

Strangely enough, the page on the CAIR website linked to the "Not in the name of Islam campaign" (put your cursor on "Challenging Hate" on the home page) shows no content via the Firefox browser.

Thomas Lifson   9 04 06