(Hartford, CT, January 8, 2025) – The Connecticut chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CT) is proud to announce that its collaborative efforts with Governor Ned Lamont have led to the official recognition of January as Muslim Heritage Month in Connecticut. This historic milestone celebrates the invaluable contributions of Muslims to the state while fostering greater understanding and unity among diverse communities.
To mark this momentous occasion, CAIR-CT will host a press conference on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at 1 PM, in Room 1B of the Legislative Office Building in Hartford. Leaders from Connecticut mosques, community representatives, and state officials will join CAIR-CT to officially launch Muslim Heritage Month and highlight its significance.
What: Press Conference to Launch Muslim Heritage Month
When: Thursday, January 9, 2025, at 1:00 PM
Where: Legislative Office Building, Room 1B, Hartford, CT
Contact: For more information please contact Farhan Memon at fmemon@cair.com or 203-517-6526
Gov. Lamont’s proclamation announcing January as Muslim Heritage Month in Connecticut can be found here: https://bit.ly/mhmproclamation
In addition to the press conference, CAIR-CT, in coordination with mosques and Muslim organizations, is spearheading several initiatives throughout January to make Muslim Heritage Month meaningful and impactful. These include:
- Launching a Special Website: CAIR-CT is building a comprehensive online platform featuring resources on Muslim contributions to Connecticut and the United States. The website will include educational materials, historical accounts, and interactive tools to enhance understanding of Islam and Muslims. The website is available at https://cairconnecticut.com/muslim-heritage-month/
- Community Engagement Activities: CAIR-CT is working with mosques and community centers to partner with local schools and libraries to organize events such as book displays, lectures, and presentations on Muslim heritage and contributions.
- Workshops and Presentations: Throughout the month, CAIR-CT in coordination with local mosques will host workshops and presentations in schools and public venues to educate the public about the historical and contemporary contributions of Muslims in fields such as science, medicine, arts, and civil rights.
- Open House Events: Connecticut mosques are opening their doors to the public to foster dialogue, understanding, and friendship between Muslims and neighbors of all backgrounds.
“Muslim Heritage Month is a time to honor the rich legacy and contributions of Muslims in Connecticut and beyond. it allows us to build bridges between communities and showcase the shared values that unite us.” said CAIR-CT Chairman Farhan Memon. “The Muslim community in Connecticut is incredibly diverse, representing people from various ethnicities, cultures, and traditions from around the world. This rich tapestry of diversity will be highlighted throughout Muslim Heritage Month, showcasing the unique contributions of Muslims in fields such as arts, education, science, and civil rights. Events and initiatives during the month will reflect this vibrant diversity, with participation from communities of African, Middle Eastern, South Asian, Southeast Asian, and American heritage, emphasizing the shared values and unity that bind all people together.”
State Representative Mariam Khan, the first Muslim woman elected to the Connecticut General Assembly, emphasized the importance of this recognition, stating: “Muslim Heritage Month is more than a celebration of history; it is a recognition of our shared humanity, and the role Muslims have played in enriching our communities. This is a powerful step forward in fostering unity and understanding in Connecticut.”
Echoing this sentiment, Senator Saud Anwar highlighted the month’s potential to build bridges across communities: “Muslim Heritage Month is not just a celebration of our culture and history, but an opportunity to ensure our friends and neighbors can better understand and appreciate our connections, bringing our communities closer together. I’m excited to see how Connecticut shares in this collective joy and look forward to the benefits this month will bring.”
Bridgeport Islamic Community Center President Khaled Elleithy said, “It’s time to honor the rich and deeply rooted history of Muslims in our country. From the arrival of enslaved Africans who brought their Islamic beliefs and practices to their pivotal contributions to the founding and growth of this nation, Muslim heritage is integral to America. BICC is proud to collaborate with neighboring cities, libraries, and schools to share this story among others. Through initiatives like our ‘Visit My Mosque’ event on January 24, we welcome neighbors and friends from all backgrounds to engage in dialogue, build connections, and share a meal.”
Farmington Valley American Muslim Center President Khamees Abu Hasaballah stated, “This long-overdue recognition highlights the significant role Muslims have played in America’s history, including founding figures who served in the War of Independence like Bampett Muhamed, Yusuf ben Ali, and Joseph Saba. We hope this proclamation fosters understanding and combats Islamophobia. FVAMC is organizing educational events in public and private schools to engage the broader community.”
A participant from a Connecticut mosque shared, “This month gives us a chance to tell our stories and educate others about the positive impact Muslims have had in our neighborhoods, schools, and workplaces. It is a celebration for everyone.”
CAIR-CT invites members of the media and the public to attend the press conference and join in the month-long activities. Together, we can celebrate the rich diversity of Connecticut while promoting a culture of inclusivity and mutual respect.
About CAIR-CT
CAIR-CT is the Connecticut chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization. CAIR’s mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.