The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations joined partners at the Islamic Maryland Action Network (IMAN Network) to issue a joint statement commemorating today as the second annual United Nations’ International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
The statement reads in part:
“As representatives of diverse Muslim communities and organizations across the State of Maryland, we mark the significant occasion of commemorating today as the second annual United Nations International Day to Combat Islamophobia by reaffirming our commitment to stand united in combating anti-Muslim bigotry, hatred and discrimination in all of its forms.
By observing this day, we bring attention to the pervasive issue of Islamophobia on a local and global scale. As hate crimes and bias incidents surge in our communities to unprecedented levels, this commemoration serves as an opportunity to educate ourselves and one another about the pervasive, detrimental effects of discrimination and prejudice against Muslims.
Islamophobia violates the fundamental human rights of individuals to live free from discrimination and fear. By acknowledging this day, we advocate for the protection of these rights and call for greater efforts to uphold human dignity for all.
Today, we stand united in expressing our dedication to preserving the humanity and rights of our diverse communities, and to promoting peace, understanding, and mutual respect for all regardless of backgrounds.”
CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
The IMAN Network is a statewide Muslim crisis working group consisting of nearly thirty Maryland mosques and Muslim organizations. Its mission is to foster a coordinated, compassionate, and effective response to crises, uniting diverse Muslim communities across the state.
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CONTACT: CAIR Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry, [email protected], 410-971-6062; IMAN Team Lead Samya Mohammad, [email protected]