The San Francisco Bay Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed the Morgan Hill Police Department’s ongoing investigation into a reported hate attack targeting Muslim worshippers after a Ramadan prayer service earlier this month.
SEE: Police investigate disturbance outside Morgan Hill Islamic prayer service
CAIR-SFBA previously condemned the March 7 assault, in which an unidentified man allegedly harassed and physically attacked an elderly Muslim man while making Islamophobic remarks, including references to Palestine and Hamas. The attacker also allegedly verbally assaulted the man’s daughter and other worshippers.
SEE: CAIR-SFBA Calls for Hate Crime Probe of Anti-Palestinian Hate Attack on Muslim Worshipers
Following widespread concern from the local Muslim community,Morgan Hill Police have confirmed they are investigating the attack as a potential hate crime.
In response, CAIR-SFBA Executive Director Zahra Billoo stated:
“We welcome the Morgan Hill Police Department’s commitment to investigating this disturbing attack as a possible hate crime. Worshippers should never have to fear for their safety when attending prayers. Given the alarming rise in Islamophobic hate crimes, it is critical that law enforcement takes swift action to ensure accountability and deterrence. We urge officials to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation and to charge this case as warranted.”
According to CAIR’s national data, CAIR offices received 8,658 incoming complaints nationwide in 2024, including more than 1,000 in California. This marks the highest number of complaints CAIR has recorded since its first civil rights report was published in 1996.
SEE: CAIR 2025 Civil Rights Report
Community members who experience or witness a hate crime or incident are encouraged to report it to CAIR-SFBA through itsincident report form or by calling 408.986.9874.
CAIR-SFBA is an office 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.
END
CONTACT: CAIR-SFBA Communications Manager Lorrie Adam, 408.498.5779, ladam@cair.com