Message aux signatairesSave the only Masjid on Lakeshore - Preserve American Islamic College: Stop the Sale

Update: Taking the Next Step in Our Fight for Transparency and Justice

Preserve AICChicago, IL, États-Unis
13 août 2023

Salam Everyone,

We've achieved a significant milestone – 1000 signatures on our petition! Your dedication and commitment are truly inspiring. However, our battle is far from over. We need to shed light on some concerning developments involving the newly incorporated entity, 4000 Marine Drive LLC (which is associated with KGiles LLC and CA Ventures) and their connection to Timothy J. Gianotti, AIC's President, and Randal Muhammad, Vice President of Finance & Administration. 

In recent days, the details have grown more unsettling. How could a property worth 35 - 40 million be sold for a mere 12 million? This transaction's circumstances demand scrutiny. Additionally, the rapid leasing of the property to house asylum seekers raises eyebrows. What might the new owners gain from this arrangement? It's crucial to understand why these entities have taken such a keen interest in this venture and what ties might exist between them and the institution's leadership.

Together, we're embarking on a journey to ensure transparency, accountability, and the preservation of the legacy of the American Islamic College.

The Road Ahead: A Call for Transparency

While this petition's achievement is noteworthy, our journey to protect the integrity of American Islamic College continues with undiminished vigor. Recent revelations have underscored the need for greater scrutiny and transparency regarding the sale of a property valued at 35 - 40 million dollars for a mere 12 million dollars. Furthermore, the manner in which the payment is spread over a year raises valid concerns.

What follows the property's acquisition is equally concerning. Leasing portions of the property to the city to house asylum seekers, potentially providing the new owners access to financial advantages, positive public relations, tax benefits, and investments in new projects, raises fundamental questions about ethical integrity, fiduciary responsibility, and possible conflicts of interest.

Urgent Queries:

Question: How were these entities able to acquire the property at such a substantial discount?
Question: Is there a potential connection between these entities and Timothy J. Gianotti or Randal Muhammad, considering their roles within the college?
Question: Why was the property specifically sold to these entities, disregarding other offers from different Islamic organizations?
Question: Were any financial incentives or undisclosed agreements involved in reaching this decision?
Question: Why is the sale agreement being kept confidential, given that it involves a property owned by a non-profit institution?

The Financial Landscape and Ethical Dilemmas: Equally distressing is the financial picture. Despite the college's ongoing financial struggles and an enrollment of merely eight students, Timothy J. Gianotti, the President, received a substantial annual salary of $125,400 in 2022 and $121,070 in 2021. This stark contrast raises pertinent questions about the allocation of resources and decision-making during times of financial distress.

Demanding Transparency and Accountability: We firmly uphold the principles of transparency and accountability. Therefore, we urge for a thorough investigation into the entire sale process, the involved parties, and the underlying motivations. We implore the authorities to ensure that those responsible are held accountable and that justice is served.

Taking Action:

We're committed to pursuing every avenue available to uncover the truth and preserve the legacy of the American Islamic College. This includes reaching out to the media to ensure public awareness, involving our local alderman and mayor who hold significant decision-making power, and continuing to escalate our petition to higher authorities. Our voices will not be silenced, and our cause will not go unnoticed.

Guardians of Legacy: The legacy of American Islamic College transcends mere structures; it's a testament to our values, identity, and faith. Let us stand united in safeguarding this legacy for generations to come.

Warm regards,

Sadik Halilovic and Concerned Congregants of AIC Masjid

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