WASHINGTON – A leading North American Islamic organization kicked off a new justice helpline on President Donald Trump’s Inauguration Day, January 20, to provide help and support to those who are targets of racism, xenophobia, and Islamophobia.

“We hope that this hotline will provide a safe haven for reporting acts of hate, school bullying and discrimination,” Dr. Zahid Bukhari, Executive Director of ICNA Council for Social Justice (ICNA CSJ), said in a statement on January 19.

The 24/7 national justice hotline will kick off on the day of the presidential inauguration, January 20, 2017.

The callers will be connected with volunteers who will document their incidents and provide assistance on how to secure their civil rights, obtain access to legal services, and other forms of protective assistance.

It was urged after a wave of anxiety hit the Muslim American community as well as other minorities mainly after the presidential election due to rising well documented cases of violence, harassment and hate in light of the election.

The Washington D.C. based office of ICNA CSJ has received numerous requests from the community since the recent Presidential election.

It took this step after consulting community leaders and legal experts.

The Justice Hotline (844) 99-JUSTICE will either directly address the issue or give advice after consultation with experts in the field.

Counselors answering phone calls will focus is on advice and prevention, while the severe cases will be referred to law enforcement.

The hotline can also guide community members on coalition building, interfaith alliances and civic engagement at local levels.

ICNA CSJ is working with a team of volunteer attorneys, civil rights activists, community leaders, professional counselors and ICNA volunteers, who have more than 15 years of experience in managing and supporting hotlines.