The California chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CA), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, yesterday celebrated the 20th anniversary of the CAIR-CA Capitol Iftar, marking two decades of gathering elected officials, Muslim staffers, and advocacy partners during the holy month of Ramadan.
Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, prayer, charity, and spiritual renewal, began at sunset on February 17 this year, with the first day of fasting on February 18. Muslims end their daily fast after sunset with a meal known as iftar.
Held on Tuesday, March 3, this year’s Capitol Iftar featured an interactive reception format intentionally designed to foster direct, meaningful conversation and create space for the Capitol community to connect in the spirit of reflection and hospitality that Ramadan encourages.
During the event, CAIR-CA formally introduced its 2026 legislative priorities, focused on protecting civil rights and promoting justice for communities across California. These priorities reflect CAIR-CA’s continued commitment to advancing policies that safeguard fundamental freedoms, challenge discrimination, and build a more just and inclusive state.
In a statement, CAIR-CA Legislative and Government Affairs Director Oussama Mokeddem said:
“Reaching the 20th anniversary of the Capitol Iftar is a powerful testament to the importance of building bridges and helping ensure Muslim voices are heard at the heart of our state’s governance. As we mark this milestone, we are reaffirming what this gathering has always represented: the value of direct connection, principled advocacy, and showing up for our communities in the spaces where decisions are made. By strengthening these relationships with elected officials and advocacy partners, we are helping lay the groundwork for policies that protect civil rights and advance justice for all Californians.”
As the 2026 legislative session continues, CAIR-CA reaffirmed its readiness to work hand in hand with lawmakers, the Governor’s Office, and our advocacy partners to advance its 2026 legislative priorities. That work builds on CAIR-CA’s ongoing advocacy around the state budget and key policy areas affecting Muslim communities and other impacted Californians.
During the iftar, the Office of Senator Aisha Wahab presented CAIR-CA with the 2026 Senate Ramadan Resolution. The resolution is the state’s formal recognition of the vibrant Muslim community and its contributions to California.
SEE: CAIR-CA Applauds CA State Senate for Passing Resolution Recognizing Holy Month of Ramadan
California lawmakers in attendance included Senator Dave Cortese, Senator Maria Elena Durazo, and Assemblymember Sade Elhawary.
CAIR-CA is a chapter of CAIR, America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.
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CONTACT: CAIR Greater Los Angeles Area Communications Manager Enjy El-Kadi, 714.851.4851, eelkadi@cair.com; CAIR Sacramento Valley/Central California Communications Director Zaid Hisham, 916.441.6269, zhisham@cair.com; CAIR San Diego Executive Director Tazheen Nizam, 760.201.7626, tnizam@cair.com; CAIR San Francisco Bay Area Communications Manager Lorrie Adam, 408.498.5779, ladam@cair.com