The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) extends its congratulations to Delegate Joseline Peña-Melnyk on her unanimous election as the 108th Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates during a special legislative session today.
Her selection marks an important milestone in Maryland’s history and reflects the strength of inclusive leadership in our state.
As the first Afro-Latina and first immigrant to lead the Maryland House of Delegates – and only the second woman to hold this position – Speaker Peña-Melnyk’s ascendancy represents a powerful moment for Maryland’s diverse communities and for all Marylanders who value equity, representation, and civic participation.
“We congratulate Speaker Joseline Peña-Melnyk on this historic achievement,” said CAIR’s Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry. “Her election reflects Maryland’s commitment to inclusive and equitable governance. We look forward to working collaboratively with Speaker Peña-Melnyk to advance the priorities and concerns of our diverse communities.”
CAIR Maryland acknowledges Speaker Peña-Melnyk’s long record of public service on issues that resonate deeply with its mission, including defending civil rights and championing the needs of immigrant and underserved communities. Her leadership as Chair of the House Health and Government Operations Committee has helped pass groundbreaking legislation that improves the lives of Maryland families.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
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CONTACT: CAIR Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry, zchaudry@cair.com, 410-971-6062; CAIR National Deputy Director Edward Ahmed Mitchell, 404-285-9530, e-Mitchell@cair.com; CAIR Government Affairs Director Robert McCaw, 202-742-6448, rmccaw@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, ihooper@cair.com