The Florida chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Florida), the state’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization, today celebrated the resounding success of the 2026 Florida Muslim Day at the Capitol (MDAC) and the historic legislative recognition of February 2026 as Muslim-American Heritage Month.
A diverse delegation of interfaith leaders, students, and professionals converged on Tallahassee on February 2nd to advocate for First Amendment protections and engage directly with state lawmakers. The event culminated in a significant victory for representation as the Florida Legislature adopted House Resolution 8001, introduced by Representative Anna V. Eskamani, officially recognizing the contributions of Florida’s Muslim community.
Introduced by Rep. Eskamani, the resolution highlights the historical and contemporary impact of Muslim Americans—from early arrivals in the American colonies to modern-day leaders in medicine, business, and public service. CAIR-Florida welcomes this formal recognition as a vital step in countering Islamophobia and fostering a more inclusive Florida.
The 2026 MDAC saw significant participation from the Florida Muslim youth, who led multiple impactful meetings with legislative staff to discuss policy priorities, including concerns regarding bills that threaten constitutional rights of assembly and free speech.
“This recognition of Muslim-American Heritage Month is a testament to our community’s deep roots and unwavering contributions to the Sunshine State. However, our celebration is coupled with a demand for justice. As I recently noted in the Orlando Sentinel, the targeting of our institutions through ‘secret evidence’ and ideological labels is an assault on the very foundations of our democracy. We are here to ensure that Florida remains a place where our children and our institutions are not abandoned to discrimination but celebrated for their heritage and contributions.” —Hiba Rahim, CAIR-Florida Interim Executive Director
“Our youth were the heart of this year’s mission. Seeing young Florida Muslims confidently navigating the halls of the Capitol and holding meaningful, impactful meetings with legislative staff proves that the next generation is ready to lead in the realm of civil liberties.” —Megan Amer, CAIR-Florida Policy Director
About CAIR-Florida: CAIR-Florida is the state’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, foster dialogue, safeguard civil liberties for all, empower American Muslims, and form coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.
La misión de CAIR-Florida es mejorar la comprensión del Islam, fomentar el diálogo, proteger las libertades civiles, capacitar a los musulmanes estadounidenses, y construir coaliciones que promuevan la justicia y la comprensión mutua.
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MEDIA CONTACTS:
- Wilfredo A. Ruiz, CAIR-Florida Communications Director, 305-502-6749, wruiz@cair.com
- Chelsea Mandrigues, Communications Coordinator, 813-705-5440, cmandrigues@cair.com