Arab American Civil Rights League

ACRL Launches “Don’t Engage Hate” Campaign to Protect and Unite the Community

🧠 Mental Health Deserves Compassion — Not Criminalization

Yesterday’s court hearing for Hassan Chokr reminded us of the ongoing crisis at the intersection of mental health and the criminal justice system.

Attorney Nabih Ayad, founder of the Arab American Civil Rights League (ACRL), has been representing Hassan as his legal counsel.

Meanwhile, ACRL as an organization continues to advocate for Hassan’s dignity and due process.

Executive Director Mariam Charara, a licensed clinical social worker and longtime mental health advocate, has:

✔️Attended all court hearings
✔️Supported the family with critical resources
✔️Assisted in gathering support from the community
✔️Raised awareness about the urgent need for mental health care—not incarceration

Hassan is more than his diagnosis. He’s a son, a brother, and a human being struggling with untreated mental illness. His case is a reflection of the larger systemic issue—mental health should never be criminalized.

We will continue standing in solidarity with Hassan and his family until justice is rooted in compassion.