The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Maryland) today congratulated Frederick County communities on the official proclamation of January as ‘Muslim American Heritage Month’ presented by County Executive Jessica Fitzwater yesterday evening, marking an important moment of recognition, inclusion, and solidarity for Muslim communities in the area.
Frederick County joins Howard and Montgomery Counties to become the third Maryland county to take this step.
SEE: CAIR Md. Welcomes Howard County’s Recognition of January as Muslim American Heritage Month
“This proclamation sends a powerful message that Muslim Americans belong and that our contributions matter,” said CAIR Maryland Advisory Board Member and Frederick County resident Bassant Kadry. “At a time when Muslim communities continue to face bias and dehumanization, official recognition like this affirms our shared values of dignity, equality, and justice.”
“Recognition is a starting point to countering Islamophobia and acknowledging our communities’ contributions,” said CAIR Maryland Advisory Board Member and Frederick County resident Dr. Mudusar Raza. “We look forward to continuing to work with our local leaders and communities to ensure that Muslim Americans are not only recognized, but also protected, respected, and empowered year-round.”
Presented on January 22, 2026, the Proclamation formally recognizes the longstanding and diverse contributions of Muslim Americans to society – including in medicine, law, education, public service, business, culture, and the military – while also acknowledging the harmful impact of Islamophobia, prejudice, and discrimination.
It emphasizes the importance of education, interfaith dialogue, and collective action in combating hate and fostering understanding, while encouraging residents of Frederick County to learn more about the rich history, traditions, and resilience of Muslim Americans.
A resolution introduced in the Maryland General Assembly this legislative session, if passed, would recognize both Muslim American and Jewish American Heritage Months statewide.
CAIR’s Maryland office extends its appreciation to County Executive Fitzwater and Frederick County officials for their leadership and partnership, as well as the community members, advocates, and organizations who continue to work toward a more inclusive Maryland.
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 Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, ihooper@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Manager Ismail Allison, 202-770-6280 (tel:202-770-6280), iallison@cair.com