Christian Action Network

Overview

The Christian Action Network (CAN) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 1990 by Martin Mawyer. The primary goal of CAN is to protect America's religious and moral heritage through educational efforts and advocacy based on biblical principles and American ideals[1][4].

History and Activities

CAN was established with the aim of promoting traditional Christian family values and to educate the public about issues it considers relevant to these values. The organization has been involved in several notable campaigns, including opposition to the National Endowment for the Arts and advocacy on First Amendment issues. One of the most prominent campaigns was against the construction of an Islamic community center near the World Trade Center site in New York, commonly referred to as the "Ground Zero Mosque"[1][3].

Notable Campaigns

Campaign against the “Ground Zero Mosque”

In 2011, CAN conducted a nationwide screening tour to oppose the construction of the Park51 Islamic community center near the World Trade Center. The screenings included stops near speaking engagements by Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf, the former spokesman for Park51. CAN also threatened legal action against the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation when denied permits to show its film in several public parks, but later announced that it had obtained permits for some parks[1].

Counter-Jihad Initiatives

CAN has been associated with the counter-jihad movement, advocating against what it perceives as pro-Islamic influences in public schools. In 2009, CAN released a video titled Homegrown Jihad: The terrorist camps around U.S., followed by the book Twilight in America: The Untold Story of Islamic Terrorist Training Camps Inside America in 2012. These works focused on alleged terrorist training camps within the United States, particularly those linked to the group Muslims of America[1].

Controversies

CAN has been identified by the Southern Poverty Law Center as an anti-Muslim hate group due to its advocacy efforts that have been criticized for targeting Islamic communities and promoting negative stereotypes about Islam[1][3].

Financial Information

As a 501(c)(3) organization, contributions to CAN are tax-deductible. In recent years, the organization has derived the majority of its revenue from contributions, with additional income from rental properties. CAN's expenses are primarily allocated to salaries, executive compensation, and program-related activities[2].

Court Cases

In the past, CAN has been involved in legal proceedings with the Federal Election Commission (FEC). In a notable case, FEC v. Christian Action Network, the court ruled in favor of CAN, finding that its political communications did not constitute express advocacy for or against electoral candidates[5].