CAIR-Philadelphia Condemns Racist, Threatening Voicemail Targeting Delaware County Sheriff

 The Philadelphia chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Philadelphia), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the racist and threatening voicemail reportedly directed at Delaware County Sheriff Siddiq Kamara.

CAIR-Philadelphia described the incident as a disturbing reminder of the hatred that too often targets public officials from historically marginalized communities.

Sheriff Kamara, the first African immigrant and Muslim elected sheriff in Delaware County, reportedly received a voicemail laced with racist rhetoric and threats. The message is the latest example of the growing climate of intolerance that seeks to intimidate public servants based on their race, religion, or national origin.

“CAIR-Philadelphia unequivocally condemns this hateful and threatening message directed at Sheriff Siddiq Kamara,” said Dr. Ahmet Tekelioglu, Executive Director of CAIR-Philadelphia. “No public official should be subjected to racist intimidation for simply serving their community. Attacks like these are not only directed at one individual They are intended to send a message of fear to entire minority groups – particularly the Black, immigrant, and American Muslim communities.”

CAIR-Philadelphia expressed solidarity with Sheriff Kamara, his family, and the residents of Delaware County. The organization also urged law enforcement authorities to thoroughly investigate the threat and hold the individual responsible fully accountable under the law.

The incident comes amid continued increases in reported bias incidents targeting Muslims, immigrants, and communities of color nationwide. CAIR-Philadelphia emphasized that hate-fueled threats against elected officials undermine democratic participation and discourage members of underrepresented communities from seeking public office.

CAIR-Philadelphia calls on community leaders, elected officials, and residents throughout the region to reject racism and religious bigotry in all its forms and to stand together in support of those who serve the public regardless of their race, faith, or country of origin.

Washington, D.C. based CAIR’s latest civil rights report documented 8,683 anti-Muslim bias complaints in 2025 – the highest number ever recorded by the organization since it began publishing civil rights reports in 1996.

CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.