CNN iReport

(ANAHEIM,

CA, 4/18/08) - The Greater Los

Angeles Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-LA) said

today that more than 250 people turned out for a screening of "USA vs.

Al-Arian," a documentary highlighting the injustices faced by former

Florida professor Dr. Sami Al-Arian.

To watch "USA vs. Al-Arian,"

http://www.linktv.org/programs/usavs

SEE ALSO: Free Sami Al-Arian

http://www.freesamialarian.com/home.htm

CAIR-LA officials said the screening was a success despite

efforts by "anti-Muslim bigots" who pressured the owners of the

original venue to back out of a signed contract and who tried unsuccessfully to

pressure the owners of the second venue into canceling the event. 

Ayloush said, however, that last-minute cancellation by

Starplex Cinemas generated more interest in the community, and the new venue, Edwards Cinemas, was able to accommodate more

guests and provide a better facility.

"We thank all those who supported the right to freedom

of speech and the right to seek redress from the government for the injustices

suffered by Dr. Al-Arian," CAIR-LA Executive Director Hussam Ayloush.

"Last night's event was a tremendous success despite the pressure exerted

by anti-Muslim bigots and those who would censor the political views of

others."

The screening was followed by a panel discussion. Panelists

included Laila Al-Arian, daughter of Dr. Sami Al-Arian. The program was moderated

by Sharaf Mowjood, government relations coordinator of CAIR-LA. 

Laila Al-Arian said of the screening: "USA vs.

Al-Arian" is a wonderful teaching tool for the American public to learn

about civil liberties in post-9/11. “I am glad that this screening in Southern California was very successful. There was a

tremendous turnout and response from the community,” she said.

The event was co-sponsored by the Islamic Shura Council of Southern California, MSA-West, Islamic Center of Irvine,

Orange County Islamic Foundation, Palestinian American Society, MSU-UCI and

Visual Sound.

Ayloush also said Al-Arian's case was highlighted today in

an article in the New York Times.

SEE: Professor in Deadlocked Terrorism Case Could Face a New

Indictment

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/18/washington/18professor.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

CAIR, America's

largest Muslim civil liberties group, has 35 offices and chapters nationwide

and in Canada.

Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue,

protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that

promote justice and mutual understanding.

CONTACT: CAIR-LA Communications Coordinator Munira Syeda at

714-776-1847, 714-851-4851, or E-Mail: socal@cair.com