The California chapter of the Council on American‑Islamic Relations (CAIR-CA) has been reported to distribute $1,000 grants to college students who faced disciplinary action over pro-Palestinian protests.
Records show the funds come from a program called the “Champions of Justice Fund.” The money is aimed at students who lost scholarships, housing or other school support because of their activism tied to protests following the October 7, 2023 attack in Israel. In one batch, CAIR-CA awarded $20,000 to 20 students from institutions that included Columbia University, University of Pennsylvania and Harvard University.
Donors supporting the program donated funds exceeding $100,000, according to internal documents. Critics say the initiative incentivises disruptive behaviour, while CAIR-CA insists the financial aid is meant as relief for students facing serious personal and academic consequences.
The fund’s recipients remain privately listed. Meanwhile, CAIR-CA is under investigation by both the Department of Justice and California state authorities over alleged mismanagement of millions in federal funds earmarked for refugee resettlement—though the organisation denies any wrongdoing.