The Texas Chapters of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Texas), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today announced their commitment to monitoring legislation and advocating for the rights and concerns of the Muslim community as the 2025 Texas Legislative Session officially commenced on January 14, 2025.
Since November 2024, a wave of concerning bills have been pre-filed, targeting free speech, immigrant rights, and civil liberties. CAIR-Texas is alarmed by these developments but remains hopeful about opportunities for progress through meaningful engagement. Notably, Representative Jon Rosenthal has reintroduced The Freedom of Speech Act, House Bill (HB) 224, from the last session, which aims to reverse Texas’ current Anti-BDS legislation.
SEE: CAIR-Houston Applauds Texas State House Bill Filing of Omnibus Freedom of Speech Act
SEE: HB 224
“We are closely monitoring this legislative session and paying special attention to bills that affect civil liberties and basic rights. We also strongly encourage the Muslim community to attend Texas Muslim Capitol Day on April 29, 2025, and Texas Muslim Youth Capitol Day on February 14, 2025, to meet with legislators and advocate for the issues we care about and directly impact us” said William White, Executive Director of CAIR-Houston.
SEE: Texas Muslim Capitol Day Information and Registration
“We are deeply concerned about the growing number of bills designed to curtail free speech and suppress immigrant rights. To our state legislators: We urge you to champion policies that protect civil liberties and promote equity. To the Muslim community: Now is the time to engage with your representatives, voice your concerns, and defend your rights,” said Sameeha Rizvi, Civic Engagement Organizer of CAIR-Austin.
CAIR-Texas is committed to the following legislative priorities:
- Monitoring Key Legislation: Advocating for bills that uphold civil rights while opposing those that threaten free speech and advocacy.
- Encouraging Civic Engagement: Supporting community participation through events like Texas Muslim Capitol Day and Texas Muslim Youth Capitol Day.
- Building Coalitions: Partnering with grassroots organizations and allies to amplify marginalized voices in the legislative process.
CAIR-Texas will continue to stand as a resource for both legislators and the broader community, ensuring that all Texans are treated with dignity and respect.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
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CONTACT:
CAIR-Houston Executive Director William White, wwhite@cair.com, 713-555-1234;
CAIR-Austin Civic Engagement Organizer Sameeha Rizvi, srizvi@cair.com, 512-893-1371;
CAIR-DFW Executive Director Mustafaa Carroll, muspeaks@gmail.com, 469-200-0273;
CAIR-San Antonio Board Chair Sarwat Hussain, shusain@cair.com, 210-378‑9528