November 29, 2007

This week, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) released travel guidelines for Muslim Americans who will be traveling for to Mecca to perform the hajj (pilgrimage). The guidelines are directed to TSA and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) employees who will be interacting with pilgrims as they exit and re-enter the U.S. this month.

SEE: TSA GUIDELINES FOR TRAVELERS

The advisory, sent to tens of thousands of TSA and CBP employees, describes the significance of the Hajj, the expected behavior of travelers (i.e., prayer in the airports), and clothing and other distinguishing items that these travelers may carry (i.e., Zam Zam water). TSA has provided information about the Hajj to its Transportation Security Officers in order to educate and train agents in cultural and religious sensitivity.

The guidance also sends a message highlighting respect for civil rights and civil liberties, and that, as with all interactions with the public, all DHS officers should maintain the highest levels of professionalism. This guidance, which includes memoranda, is designed to inform and train and will be discussed at employee shift changes in the upcoming days.

MPAC commends the DHS and TSA Office for Civil Rights and Liberties for respecting the religious duty for Muslims to perform Hajj, and maintaining professionalism toward the customs associated with the Hajj. Understanding religious traditions falls in line with the best customs of American pluralism.

Should you encounter any violations of your rights while traveling to or from the Hajj, contact the MPAC's Hate Crime Prevention Department by calling (888) 898-3558 or via email to Shazia Kamal, Hate Crime Prevention Coordinator, at shazia@mpac.org.

You may also file specific complaints with the DHS Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties by calling (800) 644-8360 or (202) 401-1474 or via email to civil.liberties@dhs.gov. For more information see: http://www.dhs.gov/xabout/structure/editorial_0373.shtm

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