The Council on American-Islamic Relations of New Jersey (CAIR-NJ) welcomes the introduction of a resolution led by Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Rep. André Carson (D-IN) to recognize January as “Muslim-American Heritage Month.”
This historic measure celebrates the significant contributions of Muslim-Americans to the nation’s cultural, social, and economic fabric. CAIR-NJ commends this effort and urges Congress to pass this important measure, emphasizing the need to formally recognize and celebrate the contributions of American Muslims in building a more inclusive and diverse society.
In a statement, CAIR-NJ Executive Director Selaedin Maksut said:
“As a community, we’ve long been a part of the fabric of America, shaping the nation through our work, our values and resilience.
The reintroduction of this resolution is a much-needed recognition of the essential role American Muslims play in building a better, more inclusive society. We urge Congress to pass this resolution so that future generations can fully appreciate and honor the contributions of American Muslims, who have, and continue to, enrich every aspect of life in this country.”
SEE: CAIR-NJ Muslim Heritage Month Proclamations Toolkit
New Jersey, home to more than 320,000 Muslims, began recognizing January as Muslim Heritage Month in 2024. CAIR-New Jersey has been at the forefront in highlighting American Muslims’ contributions and held a successful event last week featuring key figures and topics.
As the Muslim population expands, it is essential to acknowledge their resilience, celebrate their achievements, and ensure their voices are included in shaping a more inclusive and fair society.
The Congressional resolution highlights the invaluable contributions of American Muslims across various fields, including business, healthcare, science, and civil rights, with influential figures such as El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz (Malcolm X), Imam Warith Deen Mohamed, Muhammad Ali and Rashida Tlaib at the forefront.
Despite the significant impact of Muslim Americans, they have faced widespread persecution, discrimination, and misrepresentation, which has hindered their full inclusion in American society.
Muslim communities, deeply diverse in ethnicity and culture, continue to combat challenges of Islamophobia and prejudice, even as they contribute to the nation’s growth. The American Muslim population is estimated at roughly 3.4 million.
BACKGROUNDER
The resolution was re-introduced on Jan. 23, 2025, and co-sponsored by leading Democratic U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Peter Welch (D-VT). Also, U.S House Reps. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Ilhan Omar(D-MN), Lateefah Simon (D-CA).
The resolution was first introduced two years ago in the U.S. House of Representatives by Rep. Karen Bass (D-CA) and in the Senate by Booker.
The congressional “Muslim-American Heritage Month” resolution is in part based on Rep. Judy Chu’s (D-CA) 2018 and 2019 resolutions “Recognizing American Muslims’ history and contributions to our Nation.”
CONTACT: CAIR-NJ Communications Manager Aya Elamroussi, aelamroussi@cair.com, 551-208-5482
CAIR’s mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
END
Aya Elamroussi | Communications Manager
CAIR New Jersey
551-208-5482