(NEWARK, NJ – 8/2/2026) – With heavy hearts and profound sadness, the New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ), announces the passing of our beloved Board Chairwoman, Sister Cynthia Brown. She returned to her Creator on the evening of August 1, 2026.

Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. (Surely, we belong to Allah and to Him we shall return.)

Sister Cynthia was a pillar of strength, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to justice and public service. For eight years, she served on the CAIR-NJ board, guiding our organization with grace and moral clarity as Chairwoman. She was a tireless advocate for the civil rights of New Jersey’s Muslim community, and her leadership left an indelible mark on our work.

Her extraordinary commitment to her community extended across every facet of her life. Sister Cynthia dedicated a remarkable 52 years as the East Orange Municipal Clerk, the first Muslim to serve in this role in the state of New Jersey. She was a deeply respected leader at her local mosque, Ashabul Yameen of East Orange. Beyond her civic achievements, it was her deep compassion and genuine care for others that resonated with everyone she met.

With her passing, we have lost not only a formidable leader but a dear friend and mentor. Her absence leaves a profound void that will be felt by our staff, our board, and the countless individuals across the state whose lives she touched through her advocacy.

We extend our deepest, most heartfelt condolences to Sister Cynthia’s family and loved ones during this time of immense grief. We ask the community to join us in keeping her and her family in your duas (prayers). She is survived by her daughter, Najah H. Akbar, and her grandchildren Na’ilah and Halim.

May Allah (SWT) shower Sister Cynthia with His infinite mercy, elevate her ranks, and grant her the highest level of Jannatul Firdous. May He wrap her family in comfort and grant them sabr (patience) and strength in the days ahead.