On Tuesday, June 10, the Massachusetts chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MA), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, will host a lobby day on Beacon Hill.
The day-long civic engagement event will run from Lobby Day 9 AM – 1 PM and Legislative Briefing from 1:20 PM – 2:30 PM . The day brings together 150 participants from across the Commonwealth, including interfaith and community partners, to meet with legislators and advocate for H.3351/S.2134, also known as the Muslim Commission Bill.
Legislative Priorities:
- H.3351/S.2134– Will establish a permanent commission on the status of American Muslims in the state of Massachusetts. The commission shall draft an annual report to the Governor and to the clerks of the Senate and House of Representatives. This bill is being filed in response to data collected by CAIR-MA showing 48% of Muslim students in Massachusetts were bullied last year, a rate that is twice the national average, and that 35% of hijab-wearing students in Massachusetts experienced physical harassment in 2024.
- Safe Communities Act
This bill stops local police from acting as immigration agents and sharing information with ICE. It protects immigrant families from being detained or deported just for interacting with local law enforcement. Many Muslim communities would benefit from.
- Dress and Grooming Protections Bill
This bill ensures dress codes do not target people based on religion, race, or gender. It protects Muslims—especially hijab-wearing women—from being punished for how they dress.
Opening remarks will be given at 10:00 a.m., featuring:
- State Senator James Eldridge, primary sponsor of S.2134.
- State Representative Vanna Howard, primary sponsor of H.3351.
EVENT DETAILS
WHAT: CAIR-MA Lobby Day
WHERE: Massachusetts State Capitol, 24 Beacon St., Boston, Room 428
WHEN: Tuesday, June 10
- Opening Remarks- 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
- Legislative Briefing 1:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
CONTACT: CAIR-MA Legal Director Barbara J. Dougan, 781-281-9992, bdougan@cair.com
CAIR-MA is a chapter of CAIR, America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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CONTACT: CAIR-MA Legal Director Barbara J. Dougan, 781-281-9992, bdougan@cair.com