Washington, D.C. | October 25, 2023 – Nationally renowned civil rights attorney Ben Crump will represent Hanan Shaheen, mother of Wadee AlFayoumi. Wadee, a 6-year-old Palestinian boy, was tragically killed in Plainfield Township, having been fatally stabbed 26 times by his 71-year-old landlord. ADC is proud to co-counsel with the Ben Crump Law Firm on this case. The incident occurred only eight days after Wadee’s sixth birthday celebration. Wadee’s mother, Hanan Shaheen, was stabbed twelve times in the attack and is still recovering.
Joseph M. Czuba has been indicted with charges including first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, two counts of hate crimes, and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.
Attorney Ben Crump stated: “There is no tolerance for hate crimes and hate speech in America, and a 6-year-old boy should never have to pay the price for hate-fueled behavior. The pain endured by the Al-Fayoume family is immeasurable. No family should have to bear such a devastating loss, compounded by the burden of overwhelming medical bills. We must come together as a society not only to seek justice for Wadea but also to support this grieving family in their time of need. Just as we did for Trayvon Martin, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd, we must ensure that Wadea’s name is heard loud and clear. May his name serve as a reminder that in a civilized society, there is no place for hate, racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, or xenophobia.”
During these trying times the Arab and Muslim community in the Greater Chicago area, led by the CAIR Chicago office, has come together to honor Wadee. We thank and commend Mr. Ahmed Rehab and the leadership of CAIR Chicago for providing unwavering support to the family and guidance to the community, Will County and Plainfield Township officials, and everyone who has publicly and privately shown support.
ADC National Executive Director Abed Ayoub says: “This is a profoundly tragic case that has directly impacted our community. This troubling trend is a stark consequence of excluding Arab Americans from the broader umbrella of inclusivity and equality. We will be vigorous in pushing back against hate, bigotry, and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. We must stand united in our conviction, ensuring that Wadee’s legacy endures as a potent reminder that hatred and intolerance have no place in a just and compassionate society.”
ADC National Board Member Lana Nasar stated: “We live in the United States of America, a nation established on the bedrock of inclusivity and equality. Unfortunately, there is a concerning surge of hatred within our borders. As individuals of this diverse country, it is our collective responsibility to raise our voices in support of our fellow citizens. Our message is clear: Arab Americans, Muslim Americans, Jewish Americans, and all Americans of our diverse society require our support. We must work together to protect the human rights and lives of all.”
If you or someone you are aware of has been a victim of a hate crime, please reach out to us at legal@adc.org.
ABOUT BEN CRUMP LAW:
Esteemed for his relentless commitment, Attorney Ben Crump has championed the rights of underrepresented individuals throughout his career. Orchestrating groundbreaking civil rights cases, he has served clients across various legal disciplines including civil rights, personal injury, labor, employment, and class actions. Ben Crump Law remains devoted to ensuring justice for all.